30 Things You Need to Get Rid of in 2019
We’re not one to fall for the whole “new year, new you” concept. But this time of year does provide a good opportunity to look back at what has made us happy over the last few months and what things aren’t really working. And fortunately, there’s no need to totally overhaul your life to enjoy more feelings of joy, calmness and productivity. Here, 30 totally achievable things to get rid of this year.
1.
Bridesmaid Dresses
We get it—you paid a small fortune for that seafoam green number. But despite what your best friend said, you are never actually going to wear it again. Donate or re-sell.
2.
Pens That Don’t Work
Why, oh why, are these still cluttering up your desk? Invest in some stylish new ones instead.
3.
Checking Your Phone Right Before Bed...
… And as soon as you wake up. Trust us, you’ll sleep so much better after kicking this habit to the curb. (And you’re definitely not missing anything.)
4.
Miscellaneous Plugs and Chargers
There is zero reason to be holding on to your phone charger from six years ago. Going forward, label all your wires or use washi tape to keep track of what’s what.
5.
Your DVR List
Seeing that never-ending list of Modern Family episodes pile up is surprisingly stressful. Watch them or delete.
6.
Old Sunscreen
Turns out that sunblock actually deteriorates over time, meaning that what you thought was protecting you from wrinkles and melanoma could actually be doing nothing at all. Play it safe and invest in a new bottle—here are five that are super lightweight.
7.
Stretched Out Hair Ties
They damage your locks and barely work. Invest in a hair ring instead.
8.
Takeout Menus
These days, every delivery joint worth its salt has a menu online.
9.
Baby Clothes
Ninety-nine percent sure you’re done having kids? Save a few of the cutest pieces and donate the rest to a family in need.
10.
Your Mattress
If it’s more than seven years old, that is. Here’s how to pick a new one in five easy steps.
11.
Leftovers in the Freezer
You made those meatballs how long ago? Here's how long your food really lasts in the freezer.
12.
Old Birthday Cards
Keep the ones with sentimental value and get rid of the rest.
13.
Tupperware Without Lids
Free up that precious real estate in your kitchen and get on with your life.
14.
Your Instagram Addiction
Look, we love the ’Gram, too. But if you’re spending more time taking the perfect photo of your meal than actually enjoying your food, then it may be time for a smartphone restaurant ban.
15.
CDs
You’re allowed to keep one nostalgic Alanis album. That’s it.
16.
Threadbare Towels
Donate them to an animal shelter who can use them for bedding.
17.
The Snooze Button
Those extra minutes in bed can actually leave you feeling more tired, not less.
18.
Plastic Bags
Sure, keep a few of them for the bathroom trash can or walking the dog, but take the remaining 3,000 to the recycling center.
19.
Expired Medication
Just check the FDA’s guidelines before tossing.
20.
Soda
Yep, even the diet kind. Give it up this year and your teeth will thank you later. Oh, and you might even live longer.
21.
Old Costumes
Are you really going to dress up as Lara Croft again? Next.
22.
23.
Expired Pantry Items
Go through your canned goods, spices and baking supplies and toss anything that’s beyond safe consumption.
24.
Phone Numbers You Don’t Recognize
Like “Amy’s friend John” or “Lady from grocery store.”
25.
College Textbooks
You will never, ever use them.
26.
Old Bedsheets
Like towels, most animal shelters will happily accept these.
27.
Eyeglasses with the Wrong Prescription
Donate them to someone who needs them.
28.
Dead Batteries
Don’t tell us we’re the only ones with a drawer of these.
29.
Old Makeup
Using expired products can lead to breakouts and infections. Here’s a handy guide for how long your makeup really lasts.
30.
Junk from Underneath Your Bed
It’s terrible for your bedroom’s feng shui. Spend just five minutes each night putting clothes and papers away. Voilà: Instant zen.
