If you’ve ever looked around and thought, "my home isn’t that cluttered," but still felt a
little overwhelmed by something—you might be dealing with invisible clutter. This isn’t the obvious stuff like piles of laundry or stacks of unopened mail. Instead, it’s the sneaky, subtle clutter that blends in, builds up over time, and quietly drains your energy.
The good news? Once you spot it, it’s easy to clear out. Allow me to shine a light on those overlooked trouble spots.
1. Expired and Unused Items Hiding in Plain Sight
Check your fridge, pantry, medicine
cabinet, and bathroom drawers. You might be surprised at how many expired spices, medications, and beauty products you’re hanging on to.
That half-used bottle of lotion from five years ago? Toss it. The vitamins that expired in 2021? They’re not helping anyone. A
quick sweep through these areas instantly frees up space.
2. Overfilled Digital Spaces
Digital clutter is just as overwhelming as physical clutter. Unread email, unused apps, duplicate photos, and cluttered desktops create mental
noise.
Start small. Delete a handful of unused apps, unsubscribe from a few email lists, or clear out your downloads folder. It’s a little effort with a big impact.
3. Stuff You Don’t See Every Day
Out of sight, out of mind—until you need to deal with it. Look in storage bins, closets, the garage, and even under the bed.
If you find things you forgot you owned, that’s a sign they aren’t adding value to your life. Make a quick decision: keep, donate, or toss.
4. Hidden Paper Clutter
Even in a
digital world, paper has a way of multiplying. Check your fridge door, bulletin board, filing cabinet, and that one drawer that catches everything.
5. The “Just in Case” Items
These are the things you’re keeping for someday—extra cables, random kitchen gadgets, clothes that no longer fit, or those five extra tote bags from conferences.
If it hasn’t been used in the past year (or you forgot you had it), it’s probably safe to let it go.
6. Clutter That’s “Part of the Decor”
When you’ve lived with something
for a long time, it starts blending in—even if you don’t love it. That decorative bowl collecting dust, the throw pillows you don’t really like, or the knick-knacks that make dusting a chore? Reevaluate whether they’re adding to your space or just taking up room.
7. Clutter on Your Calendar
Clutter isn’t just physical—your schedule might be overloaded, too. If you’re always running from one commitment to another and never feel caught up, take a step back.
Are there obligations you can
drop? Meetings that could be email correspondence? Clearing your schedule can be just as freeing as decluttering your home.
How to Start Tackling Invisible Clutter
a. Pick one category at a time. Don’t try to tackle everything at once. Start with expired items, then move to digital clutter, and so on.
b. Set a timer. Even 10 minutes a day can make a difference.
c. Question everything. Ask yourself: Do I use this? Do I love this? Would I miss it if it were gone? If not, it’s time to say goodbye.
d. Create systems to keep it in check. Set up digital folders, designate a
paper drop zone, and make a habit of regular mini-decluttering sessions.
Invisible clutter might not be obvious, but once you start clearing it, you’ll notice the difference—less stress, more space, and a home that truly feels lighter.
On another note...
Know someone who could use extra comfort? Whether recovering, facing a health challenge, or needing a pick-me-up, my Gifts of Comfort Idea List has thoughtful, practical gifts to lift spirits and bring joy!
