While decluttering, you may come across an item that you think is essential. Either it has sentimental value or you think you’ll use it (eventually). There are ways to be more focused on clearing your space of stuff, even if you love it. It takes some discipline and organization. Start by compartmentalizing by room or purpose.

Clothes and Accessories

It should be easier to get rid of torn, broken, and unused items. But what about those “maybe some day” pieces?

• If you haven’t worn it in a year, let it go.
• Keeping clothes until they fit again may cause undue stress.
• Excessive bags, belts, and accessories aren’t necessary. Keep what you use on a regular basis and donate the rest.
• Repurpose your prized possessions into something new. If you like the pattern more than the fit, transform it into a pillowcase, quilt, or other craft.

Fashion items that are still in good shape are more likely to be resold or widely accepted as donations. It’s not doing anyone any good by being kept hostage in your cluttered closet.

Kitchen and Bathroom

These are supposed to be the centers of wellness. Keep them stocked for the week, not for the year.

• Declutter duplicates. You can only use one spatula or can opener at a time. If you haven’t used a mug in months, let it go.
• Clean out expired items in all of your cabinets. There’s no sense in using it if it could make you sick or won’t do what it’s supposed to do.
• Any gifts, gadgets, or cookbooks you haven’t opened in a year can go.
• Rethink that junk drawer. The name is an indication that you probably don’t need those items anyway.

Digital Devices

With the rate at which technology advances, there’s sure to be an out-of-date device somewhere in your home. It’s time to let it go.

• If there are cords and chargers that don’t go with any of your current devices, it’s clutter.
• If you no longer have a VHS, DVD, or cassette player, digitize the tapes or let them go.
• If you have an external drive or other digital storage, but don’t remember what’s saved on there, haven’t accessed it, or it’s no longer compatible with any other devices, you probably won’t miss it if it’s gone.

Before getting rid of digital storage devices, make sure they’re wiped of any personal information.

Sentimental Items

These are the toughest to let go of. But you can consider how often you look through old photo albums and videos. If it no longer brings you joyful memories, it’s safe to let it go.

• For large, bulky handed-down items you don’t use but still holds a memory, take a picture of it to keep.
• Old papers and certificates can be digitized.
• If something is kept out of guilt, it’s only going to continue to bring up guilty feelings until you let it go.
• Any decorative items that are no longer your style and taste can be donated.

Your space should include items that bring you joy, not stress. Decluttering can bring a refreshing feeling, especially if you’re holding on to items out of obligation. Reevaluate how much you actually love these items. Sometimes, if you love something (and don’t use it), it’s best to set it free.