There’s something about spring that makes me want to clear it all out—every junk drawer, overflowing bin, and dusty corner. I don’t know if it’s the sunshine, the open windows, or the post-winter cabin fever, but spring cleaning season always hits hard over here.
This year, I was extra ruthless. No more “just in case” clutter. No more “maybe I’ll use this one day” piles.
Here’s what I finally threw away—and honestly, I haven’t missed a single thing.
1. Nursery Pots (So. Many. Nursery Pots.)
I kept telling myself I’d reuse these for repotting or starting seeds, but the reality is I don’t need 20 mismatched plastic pots cluttering up the garage. I kept a few in great shape and recycled the rest.
Tip: Some nurseries and big box stores will take back used pots for recycling. Call ahead to check.
2. Expired or Unused Cleaning and Gardening Supplies
It’s wild how many half-used sprays, fertilizers, and random bottles accumulate over time. If I didn’t recognize it, use it, or trust it anymore—it went in the trash.
Tip: Check labels for proper disposal. Some cleaners and chemicals shouldn’t go in the regular trash.
3. Clothes with Stains, Holes, or Regret
If it was torn, stained, or hadn’t seen the light of day in years, it was time to let go. I donated what was still wearable and recycled the rest.
Textile recycling programs can turn unwearable fabric into insulation or rags—check if your city offers one.
4. Expired Medications
I was shocked at how many expired pills, kids’ meds, and half-used prescriptions were still hanging around. Use the DEA’s disposal locator to find a drug take-back location near you.
5. Random Screws, Nails, and Project Leftovers
You know that bag of “extra parts” you swore you’d need one day? I had multiples. I kept one small container of assorted hardware and tossed the rest.
6. Broken Plastic Bins
If the lid cracked or the side was warped beyond use, I let it go. Broken bins don’t actually help you stay organized—they just take up space.
Some stores now offer recycling bins for rigid plastics—worth checking out.
7. Paperwork and Kids’ Art We Don’t Need
I went through old bills, random receipts, outdated documents, and cleared out everything we didn’t need. You can shred sensitive stuff and recycle the rest.
As for kids’ artwork, I saved the truly special pieces and snapped photos of some others before letting them go. You can also use a service like Artkive to create books out of scanned artwork.
8. Expired or Unused Toiletries and Makeup
When I went through my bathroom cabinets, I found so many expired skincare products and unopened samples I never used. It was time to be honest and toss them.
Most beauty products have a little jar icon showing how many months they’re good for after opening—worth checking if you’re not sure.
9. Old Shoes That Can’t Be Donated
If they were too worn, had holes, or had lost all support, they went in the trash. I love a well-worn shoe, but there comes a time when you just have to toss them. You only need so many pairs of yardwork shoes!
10. Cords and Chargers We Don’t Use
I’ve had a ton of random cords I hadn’t sorted in years just hanging out in my nightstand. I matched what I could and recycled the rest through an electronics recycling program. I organized the cords I kept in this bin.
Old phone cords, chargers, and tech cables can often be dropped off at Best Buy or Staples, or in a recycling bin at your local grocery store.
11. Plastic Grocery Bags
Even though we try to use reusable bags, plastic ones still pile up. I finally collected them all and dropped them off for recycling at the grocery store.
Plastic grocery bags can’t go in curbside bins, but most major grocery stores have a drop-off near the front entrance.
Bonus Items You Might Want to Declutter
- Expired spices and pantry goods
- Single socks
- Takeout menus and appliance manuals
- Freebies or promotional swag
- Toys your kids have outgrown or forgotten
Ready to Declutter?
If you’re gearing up for your own spring cleaning session, grab a trash bag, some donation boxes, and a no-nonsense mindset. You don’t have to do it all at once—just pick one category at a time.
You’ll be amazed how much lighter your home (and your mind) feels.
Sign up for my 28 day minimalism challenge to make your way through your entire home!
Let’s chat: What’s one thing you finally let go of during spring cleaning that felt so good to toss? Share in the comments below.
Want to do more of the cleaning in spring cleaning? I gathered advice about the best cleaning products that actually work and compiled them all here for you.
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