40 things no one over 40 should ever have in their home
Declutter your home
A Dust Ruffle
It's basically just an excuse to hide that you probably forgot existed.
PHOTO: Jon Lovette
Yellow Towels
While washing your towels after every three uses and giving them a will typically keep 'em fresh, if they're discolored, it's time to pony up for .
PHOTO: Getty Images
Shoes That Hurt
No matter how cute they are or how perfectly they pair with your outfit, 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 .
PHOTO: Getty Images
Shoes That Smell
Like it or not, your shoes are already tracking . Don't let the stench travel too. If the odor reaches your nose, buy some new sneaks.
PHOTO: Image(s) by Sara Lynn Paige
Souvenir Shot Glasses
If you can toss back a tipple in one of these and think back fondly on the you took, then by all means, keep one or two around for a wild game night. But if your collection is filled with unsentimental , give something else the chance to gather dust.
PHOTO: Getty Images
Wedding Attire
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 .
PHOTO: Ekaterina Aleshinskaya
Undergarments That Don't Fit
If you're 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.
PHOTO: Getty Images
"Skinny" Jeans
We're not referring to the style of your 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 that doesn't spark joy. Same goes for things that don't button.
PHOTO: Getty Images
Orphan Socks
We don't know why 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.
PHOTO: Getty Images
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.
PHOTO: Getty Images
Ketchup Packets
Go ahead and treat yourself to a that won't make your fingers smell like vinegar every time you eat a . You deserve it.
PHOTO: Getty Images
Frameless Posters
... or basically any decor that looks like you bought it in your college bookstore. If it's a poster you love, . Any will do!
PHOTO: Getty Images
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 bookcase space.
PHOTO: Getty Images
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 .
PHOTO: Getty Images
Plastic Chairs
You take pride in your , and the simplest way to show that to your guests is by upping your chair game. And once you've swapped out the flimsy ones, here are more ideas for how to .
PHOTO: Getty Images
Basic String Lights with Broken Bulbs
With so many year-round with twinkly lights, why settle for standard strands when bulbs now come in so many different .
PHOTO: Getty Images
Expired Spices
The is that ground are good for about two to three years while whole spices can last up to four.
PHOTO: Getty Images
Cookware With Last Year's Breakfast Baked On
Some things, like the you inherited from your mom, can stand the test of time. But that once non-stick pan you bought at the dollar store should probably go if it still has residue or rust even after you've given it the .
PHOTO: Getty Images
Old Phones
If you upgraded to a smartphone years ago and that flip phone is still sitting in your junk drawer, donate it to someone who can get more use out of it than you will. Contact your carrier to see if they work with any charities, or look into organizations like .
Wire Hangers
Those annoying things are always causing dents in your favorite dresses and getting tangled up in your freshly . Switch to wood or fabric and upcycle the wire ones into a whimsical .
PHOTO: Getty Images
Makeup That's Past Its Prime
Concealers and liquid foundation for six months. After that you risk bacteria growing in the vile while mascara should be chucked after three months. The good news is that your favorite lipstick and gloss can keep for two years.
PHOTO: Getty Images
Takeout Containers
Odds are your favorite Chinese food place has an online menu. Trash the papers, but keep the coupons.
PHOTO: Getty Images
Business Cards
If you can no longer remember where you met the person whose card has been living in your wallet for two years, then say goodbye. However, if you happen to be holding onto a stash of contacts you want to network with, then use a to digitize the good ones and recycle the duds.
Dated Paint
Sure, that's stored properly in a dark, dry spot can last for a decade, but that doesn't mean you should hold onto that chartreuse can you thought was a good idea in '99 but never used. Instead, try on a .
PHOTO: Getty Images
Broken Umbrellas
This one should go without saying, but why are they so hard to part with?
PHOTO: Getty Images
Stinky Tupperware
If it starts to permanently smell like leftovers, gets cracked or is discolored from too much time in the microwave, you should replace the plastic containers.
Scattered Buttons
Unless of course you plan to use those abandoned buttons for a or have them prettily organized in a , those stray buttons lingering in old coat pockets aren't doing you any favors.
PHOTO: Getty Images
Old Holiday and Birthday Cards
There comes a time in every adult's life when she should say sayonara to cousin Suzie's generic greeting card from 2013. Ditto for the one with the photo of her sweet kids and Santa — you can cherish that pic on Instagram, anyway. If you're looking to make your own cards (even though they might be destined for Suzie's waste basket too) here are some jolly .
PHOTO: Getty Images
Creepy Old Dolls
If they start to give you the willies, or look like they're always judging you, don't keep them around.
PHOTO: Getty Images
Craft Supplies From a Forgotten Hobby
Tried to take up but never got the hang? Thought you'd become a master scrapbooker but got bored after the first page? There's no shame, but there's also no reason to keep that stuff from a bygone impulse sitting around.
PHOTO: Getty Images
Paperback Books
If you have no interest in revisiting you've read before, donate them to your local Goodwill or public library.
Tax Returns From Years and Years Ago
But be sure to shred them, just in case.
PHOTO: Getty Images
A Box of Cords
If you didn't know what they did in the first place, odds are they won't come in handy anytime soon. And on the off chance you do find yourself in need of that mystery plugin, there's always .
PHOTO: Getty Images
Collections You're Saving for Your Grandkids
While they someday may appreciate the souvenir snow globes you picked up on your travels or your fine china, they might ultimately than a blessing. When you're determining whether or not to let go, ask yourself if the item will have value for them (even if only intrinsic) or if it's truly only something you appreciate.
PHOTO: Getty Images
Laundry Day Shirt
It's stained, has a few holes, and you probably have a pair of pants (and OK, undies) to match. Rather than keep these items around for when you've cycled through your good clothes, make room in your closet for something a little less ... lived in.
PHOTO: Getty Images
Red Party Cups
Unless you're hosting a or a competition opt for that don't look like they belong to a college student.
PHOTO: Getty Images
Chintzy Hair Ties
If they cause knots, or pull out your mane, upgrade to that don't cause so much damage like or scrunchies (yes, they're making a comeback).
PHOTO: Getty Images
Your Child's Old Art
No, we're not totally heartless and yes, you should most certainly keep the ones that bring a smile to your face but you don't have to hold onto every bunny your little one ever drew. Here are some to display the art you love, and for the rest, snap a photo for posterity — they take up less space.
PHOTO: Getty Images
Hotel Slippers
Why not slip on (see what we did there?) a pair that's more or extra ?
PHOTO: Getty Images
Dead Flowers
If you've tried everything from a to to make your petals last longer, but they've finally met their maker, to the compost pile they go. Same goes for dead plants. No green thumb? Try a that's harder to kill.
PHOTO: Getty Images
A Dust Ruffle
It's basically just an excuse to hide that you probably forgot existed.
PHOTO: Jon Lovette
Yellow Towels
While washing your towels after every three uses and giving them a will typically keep 'em fresh, if they're discolored, it's time to pony up for .
PHOTO: Getty Images
Shoes That Hurt
No matter how cute they are or how perfectly they pair with your outfit, 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 .
PHOTO: Getty Images
Shoes That Smell
Like it or not, your shoes are already tracking . Don't let the stench travel too. If the odor reaches your nose, buy some new sneaks.
PHOTO: Image(s) by Sara Lynn Paige
Souvenir Shot Glasses
If you can toss back a tipple in one of these and think back fondly on the you took, then by all means, keep one or two around for a wild game night. But if your collection is filled with unsentimental , give something else the chance to gather dust.
PHOTO: Getty Images
Wedding Attire
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 .
PHOTO: Ekaterina Aleshinskaya
Undergarments That Don't Fit
If you're 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.
PHOTO: Getty Images
"Skinny" Jeans
We're not referring to the style of your 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 that doesn't spark joy. Same goes for things that don't button.
PHOTO: Getty Images
Orphan Socks
We don't know why 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.
PHOTO: Getty Images
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.
PHOTO: Getty Images
Ketchup Packets
Go ahead and treat yourself to a that won't make your fingers smell like vinegar every time you eat a . You deserve it.
PHOTO: Getty Images
Frameless Posters
... or basically any decor that looks like you bought it in your college bookstore. If it's a poster you love, . Any will do!
PHOTO: Getty Images
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 bookcase space.
PHOTO: Getty Images
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 .
PHOTO: Getty Images
Plastic Chairs
You take pride in your , and the simplest way to show that to your guests is by upping your chair game. And once you've swapped out the flimsy ones, here are more ideas for how to .
PHOTO: Getty Images
Basic String Lights with Broken Bulbs
With so many year-round with twinkly lights, why settle for standard strands when bulbs now come in so many different .
PHOTO: Getty Images
Expired Spices
The is that ground are good for about two to three years while whole spices can last up to four.
PHOTO: Getty Images
Cookware With Last Year's Breakfast Baked On
Some things, like the you inherited from your mom, can stand the test of time. But that once non-stick pan you bought at the dollar store should probably go if it still has residue or rust even after you've given it the .
PHOTO: Getty Images
Old Phones
If you upgraded to a smartphone years ago and that flip phone is still sitting in your junk drawer, donate it to someone who can get more use out of it than you will. Contact your carrier to see if they work with any charities, or look into organizations like .
Wire Hangers
Those annoying things are always causing dents in your favorite dresses and getting tangled up in your freshly . Switch to wood or fabric and upcycle the wire ones into a whimsical .
PHOTO: Getty Images
Makeup That's Past Its Prime
Concealers and liquid foundation for six months. After that you risk bacteria growing in the vile while mascara should be chucked after three months. The good news is that your favorite lipstick and gloss can keep for two years.
PHOTO: Getty Images
Takeout Containers
Odds are your favorite Chinese food place has an online menu. Trash the papers, but keep the coupons.
PHOTO: Getty Images
Business Cards
If you can no longer remember where you met the person whose card has been living in your wallet for two years, then say goodbye. However, if you happen to be holding onto a stash of contacts you want to network with, then use a to digitize the good ones and recycle the duds.
Dated Paint
Sure, that's stored properly in a dark, dry spot can last for a decade, but that doesn't mean you should hold onto that chartreuse can you thought was a good idea in '99 but never used. Instead, try on a .
PHOTO: Getty Images
Broken Umbrellas
This one should go without saying, but why are they so hard to part with?
PHOTO: Getty Images
Stinky Tupperware
If it starts to permanently smell like leftovers, gets cracked or is discolored from too much time in the microwave, you should replace the plastic containers.
Scattered Buttons
Unless of course you plan to use those abandoned buttons for a or have them prettily organized in a , those stray buttons lingering in old coat pockets aren't doing you any favors.
PHOTO: Getty Images
Old Holiday and Birthday Cards
There comes a time in every adult's life when she should say sayonara to cousin Suzie's generic greeting card from 2013. Ditto for the one with the photo of her sweet kids and Santa — you can cherish that pic on Instagram, anyway. If you're looking to make your own cards (even though they might be destined for Suzie's waste basket too) here are some jolly .
PHOTO: Getty Images
Creepy Old Dolls
If they start to give you the willies, or look like they're always judging you, don't keep them around.
PHOTO: Getty Images
Craft Supplies From a Forgotten Hobby
Tried to take up but never got the hang? Thought you'd become a master scrapbooker but got bored after the first page? There's no shame, but there's also no reason to keep that stuff from a bygone impulse sitting around.
PHOTO: Getty Images
Paperback Books
If you have no interest in revisiting you've read before, donate them to your local Goodwill or public library.
Tax Returns From Years and Years Ago
But be sure to shred them, just in case.
PHOTO: Getty Images
A Box of Cords
If you didn't know what they did in the first place, odds are they won't come in handy anytime soon. And on the off chance you do find yourself in need of that mystery plugin, there's always .
PHOTO: Getty Images
Collections You're Saving for Your Grandkids
While they someday may appreciate the souvenir snow globes you picked up on your travels or your fine china, they might ultimately than a blessing. When you're determining whether or not to let go, ask yourself if the item will have value for them (even if only intrinsic) or if it's truly only something you appreciate.
PHOTO: Getty Images
Laundry Day Shirt
It's stained, has a few holes, and you probably have a pair of pants (and OK, undies) to match. Rather than keep these items around for when you've cycled through your good clothes, make room in your closet for something a little less ... lived in.
PHOTO: Getty Images
Red Party Cups
Unless you're hosting a or a competition opt for that don't look like they belong to a college student.
PHOTO: Getty Images
Chintzy Hair Ties
If they cause knots, or pull out your mane, upgrade to that don't cause so much damage like or scrunchies (yes, they're making a comeback).
PHOTO: Getty Images
Your Child's Old Art
No, we're not totally heartless and yes, you should most certainly keep the ones that bring a smile to your face but you don't have to hold onto every bunny your little one ever drew. Here are some to display the art you love, and for the rest, snap a photo for posterity — they take up less space.
PHOTO: Getty Images
Hotel Slippers
Why not slip on (see what we did there?) a pair that's more or extra ?
PHOTO: Getty Images
Dead Flowers
If you've tried everything from a to to make your petals last longer, but they've finally met their maker, to the compost pile they go. Same goes for dead plants. No green thumb? Try a that's harder to kill.
PHOTO: Getty Images
A Dust Ruffle
It's basically just an excuse to hide that you probably forgot existed.
PHOTO: Jon Lovette
Yellow Towels
While washing your towels after every three uses and giving them a will typically keep 'em fresh, if they're discolored, it's time to pony up for .
PHOTO: Getty Images
Shoes That Hurt
No matter how cute they are or how perfectly they pair with your outfit, 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 .
PHOTO: Getty Images
Shoes That Smell
Like it or not, your shoes are already tracking . Don't let the stench travel too. If the odor reaches your nose, buy some new sneaks.
PHOTO: Image(s) by Sara Lynn Paige
Souvenir Shot Glasses
If you can toss back a tipple in one of these and think back fondly on the you took, then by all means, keep one or two around for a wild game night. But if your collection is filled with unsentimental , give something else the chance to gather dust.
PHOTO: Getty Images
Wedding Attire
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 .
PHOTO: Ekaterina Aleshinskaya
Undergarments That Don't Fit
If you're 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.
PHOTO: Getty Images
"Skinny" Jeans
We're not referring to the style of your 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 that doesn't spark joy. Same goes for things that don't button.
PHOTO: Getty Images
Orphan Socks
We don't know why 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.
PHOTO: Getty Images
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.
PHOTO: Getty Images
Ketchup Packets
Go ahead and treat yourself to a that won't make your fingers smell like vinegar every time you eat a . You deserve it.
PHOTO: Getty Images
Frameless Posters
... or basically any decor that looks like you bought it in your college bookstore. If it's a poster you love, . Any will do!
PHOTO: Getty Images
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 bookcase space.
PHOTO: Getty Images
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 .
PHOTO: Getty Images
Plastic Chairs
You take pride in your , and the simplest way to show that to your guests is by upping your chair game. And once you've swapped out the flimsy ones, here are more ideas for how to .
PHOTO: Getty Images
Basic String Lights with Broken Bulbs
With so many year-round with twinkly lights, why settle for standard strands when bulbs now come in so many different .
PHOTO: Getty Images
Expired Spices
The is that ground are good for about two to three years while whole spices can last up to four.
PHOTO: Getty Images
Cookware With Last Year's Breakfast Baked On
Some things, like the you inherited from your mom, can stand the test of time. But that once non-stick pan you bought at the dollar store should probably go if it still has residue or rust even after you've given it the .
PHOTO: Getty Images
Old Phones
If you upgraded to a smartphone years ago and that flip phone is still sitting in your junk drawer, donate it to someone who can get more use out of it than you will. Contact your carrier to see if they work with any charities, or look into organizations like .
Wire Hangers
Those annoying things are always causing dents in your favorite dresses and getting tangled up in your freshly . Switch to wood or fabric and upcycle the wire ones into a whimsical .
PHOTO: Getty Images
Makeup That's Past Its Prime
Concealers and liquid foundation for six months. After that you risk bacteria growing in the vile while mascara should be chucked after three months. The good news is that your favorite lipstick and gloss can keep for two years.
PHOTO: Getty Images
Takeout Containers
Odds are your favorite Chinese food place has an online menu. Trash the papers, but keep the coupons.
PHOTO: Getty Images
Business Cards
If you can no longer remember where you met the person whose card has been living in your wallet for two years, then say goodbye. However, if you happen to be holding onto a stash of contacts you want to network with, then use a to digitize the good ones and recycle the duds.
Dated Paint
Sure, that's stored properly in a dark, dry spot can last for a decade, but that doesn't mean you should hold onto that chartreuse can you thought was a good idea in '99 but never used. Instead, try on a .
PHOTO: Getty Images
Broken Umbrellas
This one should go without saying, but why are they so hard to part with?
PHOTO: Getty Images
Stinky Tupperware
If it starts to permanently smell like leftovers, gets cracked or is discolored from too much time in the microwave, you should replace the plastic containers.
Scattered Buttons
Unless of course you plan to use those abandoned buttons for a or have them prettily organized in a , those stray buttons lingering in old coat pockets aren't doing you any favors.
PHOTO: Getty Images
Old Holiday and Birthday Cards
There comes a time in every adult's life when she should say sayonara to cousin Suzie's generic greeting card from 2013. Ditto for the one with the photo of her sweet kids and Santa — you can cherish that pic on Instagram, anyway. If you're looking to make your own cards (even though they might be destined for Suzie's waste basket too) here are some jolly .
PHOTO: Getty Images
Creepy Old Dolls
If they start to give you the willies, or look like they're always judging you, don't keep them around.
PHOTO: Getty Images
Craft Supplies From a Forgotten Hobby
Tried to take up but never got the hang? Thought you'd become a master scrapbooker but got bored after the first page? There's no shame, but there's also no reason to keep that stuff from a bygone impulse sitting around.
PHOTO: Getty Images
Paperback Books
If you have no interest in revisiting you've read before, donate them to your local Goodwill or public library.
Tax Returns From Years and Years Ago
But be sure to shred them, just in case.
PHOTO: Getty Images
A Box of Cords
If you didn't know what they did in the first place, odds are they won't come in handy anytime soon. And on the off chance you do find yourself in need of that mystery plugin, there's always .
PHOTO: Getty Images
Collections You're Saving for Your Grandkids
While they someday may appreciate the souvenir snow globes you picked up on your travels or your fine china, they might ultimately than a blessing. When you're determining whether or not to let go, ask yourself if the item will have value for them (even if only intrinsic) or if it's truly only something you appreciate.
PHOTO: Getty Images
Laundry Day Shirt
It's stained, has a few holes, and you probably have a pair of pants (and OK, undies) to match. Rather than keep these items around for when you've cycled through your good clothes, make room in your closet for something a little less ... lived in.
PHOTO: Getty Images
Red Party Cups
Unless you're hosting a or a competition opt for that don't look like they belong to a college student.
PHOTO: Getty Images
Chintzy Hair Ties
If they cause knots, or pull out your mane, upgrade to that don't cause so much damage like or scrunchies (yes, they're making a comeback).
PHOTO: Getty Images
Your Child's Old Art
No, we're not totally heartless and yes, you should most certainly keep the ones that bring a smile to your face but you don't have to hold onto every bunny your little one ever drew. Here are some to display the art you love, and for the rest, snap a photo for posterity — they take up less space.
PHOTO: Getty Images
Hotel Slippers
Why not slip on (see what we did there?) a pair that's more or extra ?
PHOTO: Getty Images
Dead Flowers
If you've tried everything from a to to make your petals last longer, but they've finally met their maker, to the compost pile they go. Same goes for dead plants. No green thumb? Try a that's harder to kill.
PHOTO: Getty Images
Declutter your home
When you've got years worth of stuff to get rid of and you don't know where to begin, it's hard to know how to declutter your home. It's time to Marie Kondo your life. From bras that don't fit to spices that expired years ago, here are 40 things it's time to ditch if you're a woman over 40 (or you're simply looking to take the next big step in home organization). Something doesn't spark joy? Get rid of it!