In a world brimming with choices, it’s easy to get carried away with shopping sprees, only to realize later that you’ve bought something you already have. It’s a common habit that can clutter up your living space and drain your wallet. To help you curb unnecessary purchases, here’s a list of 13 things you should stop buying because chances are you already own them. By being more mindful of these items, you can cut down on clutter and perhaps save a bit of money along the way. Dive in and see if any of these resonate with you.
1. Tote Bags
Tote bags are the new swag item, handed out at every event, conference, and store opening. It’s easy to accumulate more totes than you could ever use, and they often end up stuffed in drawers or closets. While it’s great to use them in place of plastic bags, having too many can be overwhelming. Most people have a few favorite totes they regularly use, and the rest simply occupy space.
If you’re overrun with totes, consider sorting them and keeping only those that are sturdy and versatile. Donate extras to local charities or shelters, where they can be put to good use. You can also repurpose totes as organizers for clothes, toys, or other household items. Creating a habit of rotating your totes can keep your collection fresh and functional. By narrowing down to a manageable number, you’ll find yourself using each bag more, which is the whole point of having them.
2. Coffee Mugs
Mugs seem to have a way of multiplying in kitchen cabinets like rabbits. Whether they’re gifts from workplaces, souvenirs from vacations, or part of a matching set, chances are you have more mugs than you’ll ever need. Yet, when a new quirky design or color comes along, it feels almost irresistible. The truth is, you probably have your favorite go-to mugs you use regularly, and the rest just take up space.
To manage your mug collection, consider a one-in, one-out policy. If a new mug catches your eye, commit to giving away an old one to keep things balanced. You can also repurpose mugs you don’t use for drinking by turning them into decorative items, like planters or pen holders. Doing this can breathe new life into them and make them more functional. Remember, kitchen space is premium, and mugs are just one of many items competing for it.
3. Novelty Kitchen Gadgets
The allure of novelty kitchen gadgets is hard to resist. From avocado slicers to spiralizers, it’s easy to fill your kitchen drawers with these single-use items. However, most of these gadgets end up gathering dust, as they often don’t save as much time as they promise. According to kitchen expert and author Deb Perelman, many of these gadgets are redundant because a good knife can handle most tasks just as well. Before buying that new gadget, assess if it genuinely fills a gap in your kitchen routine.
Focusing on multi-purpose tools can help you cut down on clutter. Instead of buying a specialized egg poacher, for instance, you might find a simple saucepan does the trick with a bit of practice. If you’re not using a gadget regularly, it might be time to donate it or sell it online. Prioritizing quality over quantity in your kitchen can also enhance your cooking experience. Ultimately, a decluttered kitchen lets you focus more on enjoying the process of preparing meals.
4. Water Bottles
Reusable water bottles are a great way to cut down on plastic waste, but they can also become a clutter problem. Many people buy new bottles to match outfits, fit in bags of different sizes, or simply because they forgot to bring one along. This leads to a collection of bottles that often goes unused. What’s worse is that these items often require specific cleaning needs, which can lead to hygiene issues if not maintained properly.
To avoid amassing a collection of water bottles, invest in one high-quality bottle that fits your lifestyle needs. Whether you need it to keep beverages cold for hours or fit into your bike’s holder, one versatile bottle can do it all. If you have excess bottles, consider donating them to shelters or organizations that can put them to good use. By sticking to one bottle, you also develop a habit of keeping it clean and in good condition. This not only saves space but also ensures you’re drinking from a bottle that’s sanitary.
5. Candles
Candles offer a comforting ambiance, but buying them frequently can lead to a surplus. Many people keep candles for special occasions, thinking they’ll use them during a power outage or a romantic dinner. However, they often end up as mere decoration, gathering dust instead of being used. According to lifestyle expert Marie Kondo, the key to decluttering is keeping items that spark joy and truly get used. Assess your candle collection and identify which ones you actually want to burn.
Use your candles instead of saving them for some undefined future event. A candlelit dinner or a relaxing bath can become a regular part of your routine, giving you a reason to enjoy what you have. If you find that you’re not using certain candles, consider giving them as gifts to friends or family. This way, they can bring joy to someone else rather than clutter your space. By focusing on using and enjoying what you have, you make room for new experiences instead of new things.
6. Pens And Notebooks
It’s tempting to buy a new notebook or a cute pen every time you see one that catches your eye, but do you really need another? Most people have a drawer or shelf full of barely used notebooks and spare pens. Before you know it, these small purchases add up, and you’re swimming in stationery supplies. According to a study by the National Association of Professional Organizers, the average person wastes 55 minutes every day looking for misplaced items, which often includes stationery. Next time you feel that itch to buy a fresh notebook, check your stash at home first.
Instead of buying more, consider putting them to use by journaling or doodling. Notebooks and pens don’t go bad, so make the most out of the ones you have. You could also donate extras to local schools or community centers where they can be put to good use. If you’re still craving a new addition to your collection, limit yourself to a yearly purchase or set a specific purpose for a new one. This way, you’ll keep your collection meaningful and manageable.
7. Clothing Basics
Whether it’s white t-shirts, black leggings, or plain socks, clothing basics are often bought on repeat. People justify these purchases thinking they’re wardrobe essentials, but it leads to an overflowing closet. According to fashion psychologist Dr. Carolyn Mair, over-shopping basics can make it harder to build a versatile wardrobe because it limits variety. Instead, focus on maintaining the basics you already own and use them as a foundation for more creative outfits.
Before buying another plain tee or pair of socks, take inventory of what you have. Organizing your wardrobe by type can help you see clearly how many of each item you own. If you find duplicates or items that no longer fit, consider donating them. This way, your wardrobe remains uncluttered, and you only keep items that you actually wear. A curated collection of basics ensures you’re always ready for any occasion while leaving room for more statement pieces.
8. Phone Chargers And Cables
In the quest to keep your devices powered, you might find yourself buying extra chargers and cables. Whether it’s for travel, work, or car use, this often results in a tangled mess of cords. Most people don’t realize they already have enough until they start untangling the drawer or box these items are kept in. It’s time to assess what you really need and organize the rest.
Consider investing in a multi-port charger or a portable power bank. It reduces clutter by combining multiple functionalities into one device. Additionally, label your cables and allocate a specific spot for them to keep everything accessible and tidy. If you have excess, recycling them at an electronics recycling center is a responsible choice. Simplifying your tech accessories not only declutters your space but also makes everyday life more convenient.
9. Travel-Sized Toiletries
The convenience of travel-sized toiletries can lead to stockpiling them. Every trip seems to justify picking up a new set, even though people often have plenty at home from previous travels. These small bottles can clutter bathroom cabinets and drawers, occupying space better used for items you need daily. Often, they remain unused because hotel stays provide complimentary toiletries.
Instead of buying new travel sizes, refill existing containers with products you already have. This is both cost-effective and environmentally friendly, reducing plastic waste. If you have an abundance of these mini bottles, consider donating them to shelters, where they’re always in demand. Streamlining your toiletry collection simplifies packing for trips and keeps your bathroom organized. It’s a small change, but it makes traveling and everyday life just a bit easier.
10. Fitness Equipment
Buying fitness equipment is often seen as an investment in health, but it can quickly lead to clutter. Many people have exercise gear taking up space, unused and forgotten, as enthusiasm wanes. Whether it’s dumbbells, yoga mats, or resistance bands, these items can become more of a burden than a benefit. Often, people don’t realize they already have what they need for a good workout at home.
Start by evaluating what you use regularly and store away or sell items that aren’t in your routine. Sometimes, you’ll find that bodyweight exercises or outdoor activities meet your fitness needs without extra equipment. Consider joining local fitness classes or gyms that have a variety of equipment available for use without cluttering up your home. If you’ve outgrown certain equipment, donating it to community centers or schools can be a great way to give back. Simplifying your fitness gear can make workouts more enjoyable and your living space more organized.
11. Seasonal Decor
Seasonal decor has a way of accumulating over the years, from holiday-themed items to seasonal knick-knacks. People often buy new decorations annually, drawn to new themes or trends, while last season’s items remain boxed up. This can lead to storage issues and wasted resources. It’s time to rethink how you approach seasonal decorating to keep it meaningful and manageable.
Before buying new decor, shop your existing collection. Mixing and matching can give old items new life and save money. If you have an overabundance, consider donating to charities or community centers that could use them. By curating a selection that truly resonates with you, seasonal decorating becomes a joy rather than a chore. This approach not only saves space but also adds a personal touch to your home throughout the year.
12. Kitchen Storage Containers
The quest for organization can lead to buying more kitchen storage containers than necessary. People often collect mismatched sets or buy the latest trend, only to forget what they already own. This results in a cluttered kitchen with more containers than food to store. Moreover, finding lids or matching sets becomes a time-consuming task.
Instead of continuously buying new containers, assess your current collection and consolidate. Invest in high-quality, multi-purpose sets that stack neatly and are easy to clean. If you’ve accumulated excess, consider recycling or donating them to reduce clutter. By maintaining a streamlined set, you’ll find it easier to organize your kitchen and actually use what you have. This not only keeps your kitchen tidy but also enhances your cooking efficiency.
13. Craft Supplies
Craft supplies can be a source of endless possibilities, but they can also create chaos. Many people buy new supplies for every project, leading to a stash of unused materials. Whether it’s yarn, fabric, or scrapbooking items, these can quickly overrun your storage space. Often, the excitement of a new project overshadows the reality of what you already have.
Before buying new supplies, plan projects around what you currently own. This encourages creativity and reduces waste. Organizing your supplies by category can also help you see what you have and what you genuinely need. If you find that you have materials you’ll never use, consider donating them to schools or community groups. By focusing on using what you have, you not only save money but also make your crafting endeavors more fulfilling.
This article is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial advice. Consult a financial professional before making investment or other financial decisions. The author and publisher make no warranties of any kind.
