55 Things No Woman Over 40 Ever Needs in Her Home
...but no shame, either way.
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Why is it that the older we get, the more stuff we seem to accumulate? And not only that, but we tend to feel an unnecessary attachment toward everything. From your daughter’s science fair project to a concert autograph from your early twenties, it’s always hard to part ways with our possessions—despite the fact that we hardly think twice about most of them anymore. When you’ve racked up years worth of belongings that you need to get rid of, it’s hard to know how to declutter your home. That’s why we have your solution—it’s time to officially Marie Kondo your life. (Tiny houses are popular for a reason, you know!)
From bras that don't fit to spices that expired years ago, here are 45 things it's time to toss if you're a woman over 40 (or you're simply looking to take the next big step in DIY closet organization). Something doesn't spark joy? Get rid of it! And, let’s be real here—do you actually need souvenir shot glasses from your girls trips decades ago, or those bridesmaid dresses collecting dust in the back of your closet that you swore you’d have an occasion for eventually? One word in big, bold letters: no! Those take up major space (and we have some fabulous small bedroom storage ideas for you here). Of course, there’s zero judgement for having any of this stuff on hand, but let this be a reevaluation of what you own versus what you actually need.
Multiple Remote Controls
If your coffee table is littered with remotes connected to the TV, DVD player, stereo, and who knows what else, it's time to consolidate to an all-in-one device.
A Futon
Nothing screams "college dorm room" more than this bed-couch hybrid. Pass this one on to your kids and make use of the leftover space with a new plant or art installment.
A Piggy Bank
It served its purpose as you collected pennies growing up, but a classy coin purse does the same job—minus the bulk.
Old Perfumes
We're all for an aesthetically pleasing perfume bottle display. But let's get real—you've probably locked down your signature scent ages ago, so there's really no need to hold onto a handful of scented vials that are basically just for looks.
Plastic Wine Glasses
As your wine collection improves, so should your wine glass situation—because even the grocery store Chardonnay you snagged for your monthly book club meeting deserves to be sipped in nothing less than the best.
A Dust Ruffle
It's basically just an excuse to hide clutter that you probably forgot existed. Ditch the skirt and relocate your monsters under the bed to a hallway closet or bathroom shelf.
Yellow Towels
While washing your towels after every three uses and giving them a vinegar treatment will typically keep 'em fresh, if they're discolored, it's time to pony up for new ones.
Shoes That Hurt
No matter how cute they are or how perfectly they pair with your LBD, if your heels hurt so much that you avoid wearing them—or worse, wear them and have to hobble all day—add your kicks to the donation pile.
Shoes That Smell
Like it or not, your shoes are already tracking bacteria all over your house. Don't let the stench travel too. If the odor reaches your nose, buy some new sneakers.
Souvenir Shot Glasses
If you can toss back a tipple in one of these and think back fondly on the trip you took, then by all means, keep one or two around for a wild game night. But if your collection is filled with unsentimental gifts, give something else the chance to gather dust.
Bridesmaid Dresses
You have the photos, you have the memories, and you don't need the clutter. Can't seem to part with all that taffeta? Turn them into dress-up clothes for your little one.
Bras That Don't Fit
If your girls are bulging out, your straps are digging into your shoulders, or your cups are gaping, it's time to give up on your old standby. Same goes for any bras that are really starting to show their age.
"Skinny" Jeans
We're not referring to the style of your jeans, but rather those jeans you've held onto since you were 20, hoping they'd one day fit again. As Marie Kondo would say, don't keep anything in your closet that doesn't spark joy. Same goes for things that don't button.
Orphan Socks
We don't know why socks always run away after laundry sessions, but we do know that their fallen brethren aren't worth holding onto. Unless you're really into puppets.
Old Trophies
Yes, your kid is #1, but if your kid is also no longer actually a kid, take a #shelfie of all of the participation trophies she's gathered over the years and frame that instead to make room for more memories.
Ketchup Packets
Go ahead and treat yourself to a fresh bottle that won't make your fingers smell like vinegar every time you eat a French fry. You deserve it.
Frameless Posters
...or basically any decor that looks like you bought it in your college bookstore. If it's a poster you love, frame it. Any inexpensive frame will do!
CDs on Display
...that is, if you haven't touched them since 2010, because Alexa plays all your music now. If that's the case, let something more useful take up the space.
Ancient Gardening Gloves
Of course there's nothing wrong with getting a little dirt on your fingers, but if your gloves are too beat up, you could be susceptible to injuries. Consider repurposing them and the rest of your old tools into pretty DIY projects.
Plastic Chairs
You take pride in your backyard, and the simplest way to show that to your guests is by upping your chair game.
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