An attic can be a wonderful bonus space—perfect for a home office, a peaceful reading nook, or a cozy guest room. But too often, it becomes a dumping ground for things we no longer use or need. Over time, it fills up with dusty furniture, broken gadgets, piles of clothes, and boxes of forgotten memories.
If that sounds familiar, it’s time to take back your attic.
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Start fresh by clearing out the clutter. Here are 13 things that can go today:
1. Sentimental Clutter
It’s easy to hold onto keepsakes like cards, trophies, and souvenirs. But if these items are packed away in boxes and never looked at, they’re just taking up space. Keep only the most meaningful pieces, and consider taking photos of the rest to preserve the memory without the mess.
2. Unwanted Furniture
That old chair or couch stored away because it didn’t fit anywhere else? It’s time to let it go. Furniture that’s damaged, outdated, or simply no longer your style doesn’t need to stick around. Make room for items that suit your life now.
3. Unsorted Memory Boxes
Boxes filled with random photos, notes, and keepsakes often sit untouched for years. Set aside some time to go through them. Keep what tells your story, and toss what no longer has meaning.
4. Outdated Electronics and Cords
Electronics that haven’t been used in years—like DVD players, old phones, or mystery cables—are just clutter. If it’s not something you use regularly, it’s probably not worth keeping. Recycle old devices properly and free up valuable space.
5. Worn-Out Towels
Old towels and linens that have lost their softness or quality can be put to better use. Donate them to animal shelters or repurpose them as cleaning rags. Let them serve a purpose instead of sitting unused.
6. Childhood Keepsakes
It’s tempting to save every school project and report card, but they add up quickly. Keep a few special items from childhood and let the rest go. A small collection of meaningful memories is far better than boxes of forgotten papers.
7. Broken Holiday Decorations
Holidays come once a year, and broken decorations don’t deserve a permanent spot in storage. Toss anything that’s cracked, faded, or no longer works. Use sturdy containers for what you keep to make decorating easier and more enjoyable.
8. Old Paint Cans
Paint doesn’t last forever, especially in an attic where heat can ruin it. If the paint is dried out, separated, or years old, it’s time to dispose of it. Check local guidelines for proper disposal or let it dry out completely before tossing.
9. Outgrown Baby Gear
Baby items like cribs, strollers, and toys can take up a lot of space. If they’re no longer needed, donate or pass them on to someone who can use them. Just make sure they still meet current safety standards.
10. Overflowing Photo Albums
Loose photos and heavy albums that never get opened can be downsized. Keep your favorite images and digitize the rest. This keeps memories safe while freeing up physical space.
11. Paper Clutter
Stacks of old papers, receipts, and outdated documents often collect dust in the attic. Keep only what’s essential for taxes or legal reasons. Shred anything with personal information and toss the rest.
12. Damaged Luggage
Luggage with broken zippers, missing wheels, or musty smells won’t make travel any easier. Keep only the pieces that are in good shape and meet your current travel needs.
13. Unused Halloween Costumes
Costumes that no longer fit or haven’t been worn in years can be donated. Schools, theaters, or community centers may be happy to have them. Discard any that are incomplete or in poor condition.