Organizing
5 ‘Just in Case’ Items You Should Let Go of Today
We all have clutter hiding in drawers, closets, or boxes—especially those just in case items we think we might need.
But organizers agree: keeping items out of guilt, fear, or habit only adds stress and steals valuable space.
These professionals explain why you should finally let go of these five common clutter culprits.
1. Unused Kitchen Gadgets
Zoodle makers, popcorn poppers, and fondue pots may sound useful, but how often do you use them?
Katrina Teeple, founder of Operation Organization, calls these the “kitchen gadget graveyard.”
“People hold on to them hoping they’ll come in handy again,” she says. But usually, they never do.
Instead, give them to someone who will use them or donate them to your local Buy Nothing group.
2. Outdated Owner’s Manuals
Still keeping thick stacks of manuals in drawers or folders? You likely haven’t used them in years.
Most manuals now exist online in digital format. You can find instructions with a simple Google search.
Tossing these papers instantly clears space without any downside. Let the pile go and breathe easier.
3. Gifts You Don’t Use
Many people hold on to gifts out of guilt, even if they don’t like or use them.
Jamie Hord, founder of Horderly, explains this guilt is mostly imagined. “Most gift-givers won’t even notice,” she says.
The real value lies in the thought behind the gift—not the object itself. Donate or rehome those unused presents.
4. Mystery Device Cords
Most homes have a box full of cords without matching devices. Sound familiar?
Jennifer Johnson of The Orderly Space says, “Cords represent potential—just in case something needs charging.”
But if you don’t know what it’s for, let it go. You can always replace it later if needed.
Removing these just in case items frees up space and reduces mental clutter at the same time.
5. Clothes That Don’t Fit
We’ve all saved jeans that no longer button, hoping they’ll fit again. But should we?
Clothes that don’t fit often cause more stress than motivation. They remind you of goals not yet met.
Instead, share them with someone who needs them now. You’ll feel lighter and kinder to yourself in the process.
Let Go to Gain Peace
Letting go of just in case items is not wasteful. It’s an act of reclaiming your home, time, and peace of mind.
You don’t need guilt or clutter weighing you down. Start small and build momentum today.