13 Kitchen Items to Toss ASAP, According to a Pro Organizer

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11. Old food scraps stored in ziplock bags: Empty and discard old food scraps stored in ziplock bags to avoid plotting future pest problems.

Household organization is a challenge. It's difficult to locate your preferred spatula because the cabinets are cluttered with coffee mugs. The spice drawer has a worrisome mix of expired spices, and kitchen counters are functioning as makeshift storage units since all the shelves are overflowed with unused items.

A clutter-free space makes a big difference. That's why I recommend a decisive start when decluttering and tidying. Begin by tackling low-effort, simple decisions, such as getting rid of expired, damaged, and unused items. Here are the easiest things to dispose of, move, or donate as soon as possible.

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Nearly expired pantry staples

When donating spices to a local food bank, remember that spices lose their potency over time, so if you can't find an expiration date on the jar, check it by pinching the herb or spice between your fingers. If there's no characteristic smell, it's probably time to discard it.

When you add new pantry staples, keep a permanent marker handy to track their purchase dates and monitor their shelf life. To keep your stock fresh and organized, put the newest items in the back of your shelf, and ensure the container labels face forward.

Damaged utensils

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Expired condiments

Today, take a look at the use-by dates on any stored marinades, tartar sauces, and ketchup that you had forgotten about. If they've expired or you don't think you'll use them before they go bad, discard the contents before recycling their containers.

Mismatched plastic storage containers

Storage containers. Where did I put the matching lid for this one? Struggling to keep your cabinet with plastic containers tidy, no matter how many times you try to organize it? The reason it remains messy is that you've accumulated far too many.

Sort them by size, and then start to toss. There's no need to hold onto those that don't fit together well, won't seal properly, or are beyond repair because of stains, scratches, or bubbles. If you'd like to give old items a new purpose, you can repurpose smaller or lidless containers as organizers for your drawers, while larger sizes are great for containing clutter from craft and workshop projects.

Excess dishes

When deciding what kitchen items to get rid of, start by looking for chipped dishware. This type can be hazardous because it has sharp edges that can cause cuts, and it often can't be properly disinfected to remove bacteria and other germs.

Keep only as many dishes go to the table as you need on a regular basis. Store these in the most convenient area, like a cabinet or drawer. For the dishes you only use every now and then or for special occasion guests, put them in a less easy to reach spot. Repurpose old souvenir glasses and mementos like sentimental mugs as decorative plant holders, pen holders and organizers for your dresser.

Busted cooking vessels

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To guarantee your family's safety and prepare mouthwatering meals in any cooking situation

Worn-out cutting boards

Typically, you'll need to replace it more often, so it might be a good idea to consider getting a new one.

Unused cookbooks

Makes a lot of space, especially in a small kitchen. To be blunt, a lot of our favorite recipes can be stored online or in an app or a notebook. When deciding which recipes to give away, I recommend looking for ones that have never been opened, have complex instructions, lack pictures, or are no longer relevant. Clear out valuable storage space by browsing through them and taking photos of the recipes you want to keep.

Frostbitten food

Make sure to include any forgotten freezer meals that have gone bad, and also consider tossing anything that's freezer-burned. Don't forget to get rid of that crumpled up piece of foil in the back with that mysterious leftover.

Old kitchen linens

A cluttered stash of kitchen linens can build up quickly when left on a shelf or in a drawer. Inspect the dishtowels for any signs of being non-absorbent, having a persistent smell or a hardened texture after washing, or showing wear and tear, such as frayed edges, holes, or torn seams. It's also time to let go of any unused aprons and (for safety's sake) worn-out potholders that can't protect your hands from heat.

What can you do with those lower-quality linens that are only good for cleaning purposes? Consider donating them to the volunteers at your local pet shelter - they've often have a positive response to receiving extra supplies like that.

Redundant countertop appliances

Let's take a look at the tools we have. While some are useful time-savers, others are just taking up space. Take a hard look at what you're holding onto and decide which ones can let go. (And yes, that cake-pop maker is probably safe to discard.) Check for any tools that are broken, hard to use, or occupy unwanted space, and consider donating those that still work. Don't forget to include any accompanying accessories and the instruction manual when you give them away.

Takeout containers, utensils, and condiments

A handful of sauce packets, disposable utensils, and straws from takeout orders end up in a cluttered drawer. It's likely you're giving yourself too many of these extras when you order, so there's no need to hold onto them and take up space. Fortunately, many food banks accept wrapped disposable utensils, which means you don't have to throw them away. You can also use leftover condiments by including them in lunches, and reduce clutter the next time you order by opting out of these extras with your burger and fries.

Shopping bags

Bag-strain at home is in place, especially after extra storage, as your check comes home more bags that end up being used briefly, later tossed in the closet, under the sink, or with the trash nearby. The problem is, we honestly end up with a lot more than we use. Turn them to help by picking one for warranty, then place at least an item daily to give away. Just a reminder, reusable bags are basically helpful only really if they're with you. So, keep them handy; store the car. Take those you won't need, and send them for recycling or give them away; make space in your kitchen.

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