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What to Clear Out For Spring Cleaning

Everyone is talking about spring cleaning but few mention the need to get rid of old or unused items, or should we just say junk. Your home should be your sanctuary—a place of comfort, security, and personal expression. However, junk can disrupt that harmony, even posing risks to your health and safety. From expired medications and hazardous chemicals to outdated electronics and clutter, your Energy Smart home would be better off if you got rid of certain household items. In this month’s article we will discuss which unnecessary or even dangerous items you should eliminate to create a cleaner, safer, and more functional home.

Expired Medications

Expired medications may become less effective or even harmful if taken accidentally. Keeping old prescriptions can lead to confusion and increase the risk of taking the wrong medication in emergencies.

Proper Disposal Methods:

• Take expired medications to a pharmacy or disposal program. Many pharmacies have designated take-back bins.
• Never flush medications down the toilet, as this can contaminate water supplies.
• Organize your medicine cabinet regularly to keep only what is necessary and safe.

Old Paint and Hazardous Chemicals

Storing old paint cans, cleaning agents, motor oil, or pesticides in the garage or basement may seem harmless, but over time, these substances degrade, leak, or emit toxic fumes. This can pose health risks, especially in homes with children or pets. Improper disposal of these chemicals can also harm the environment, potentially contaminating soil and groundwater.

Safer Solutions:

• Check for local hazardous waste disposal programs. Many communities host collection days for safe disposal.
• Switch to eco-friendly alternatives. Water-based paints and natural cleaning products reduce health risks.

Unworn or Outdated Clothing

A packed closet full of unworn clothes can create clutter, stress, and unnecessary decision fatigue. Holding onto clothing that no longer fits or aligns with your style makes it harder to find and enjoy the pieces you actually love.

Decluttering Tips:

• Donate or sell items in good condition.
• Recycle old, unwearable fabrics through textile recycling programs.
• Adopt a minimalist wardrobe with versatile, high-quality pieces that simplify your daily routine.

Expired or Unused Food and Spices

Your pantry and refrigerator might be hiding expired spices, stale dry goods, or perishable foods long past their prime. Spices lose their flavor over time, while expired foods can pose health risks if consumed.

How to Stay Organized:

• Adopt the "First In, First Out" (FIFO) rule. Use older items before newer ones.
• Label food with expiration dates to prevent waste.
• Conduct a pantry check seasonally to clear out expired or forgotten items.

Outdated or Broken Electronics

Old laptops, phones, cables, and chargers tend to pile up over time, taking up space while contributing to e-waste. Many electronics contain hazardous materials that should be disposed of properly.

Sustainable Disposal Options:

• Recycle electronics at designated e-waste collection sites.
• Donate working devices to schools or charities.
• Resist unnecessary upgrades—only replace gadgets when truly needed.

Excessive Decorations and Seasonal Items

While decorations add warmth to a home, too many can create clutter and make spaces feel overwhelming rather than inviting. Seasonal decor, when not stored properly, can also take up unnecessary space.

Decluttering and Storage Tips:

• Rotate decorations seasonally and store off-season items in labeled bins.
• Opt for a minimalist approach by choosing timeless, meaningful pieces.
• Use space-saving storage solutions to keep seasonal decor organized and accessible.

A Healthier, Clutter-Free Home

After reading this article you may realize that you have a little extra spring cleaning tasks to do. But you, your family, and Energy Smart home will better off for it. By now you have learned that creating a safe, efficient, and enjoyable home starts with thoughtfully assessing what belongs in your space and what needs to go. By eliminating hazardous chemicals, unused clothing, expired foods, and outdated electronics, you can free up space, reduce stress, and enhance your overall well-being. A home that is well-organized and intentionally curated becomes a place of true comfort, balance, and peace.

By EnergySmart Homes Staff 3-1-2025