“Someday clutter.” “What if” clutter. We all have it.
It’s the stuff we hold onto because we might need it or want it someday.
It’s the stuff we’re afraid to let go of because we fear we might regret it.
Sound familiar?
- Jeans we hope to fit into someday.
- Books we plan to read.
- Old receipts we think we might need.
- Craft supplies we’d like to use when we have time.
At first glance, it may not seem like clutter at all. But take a look around your home—you’ll quickly realize just how much “someday clutter” you’re holding onto.
It’s overwhelming.
And it’s everywhere—in closets, cabinets, and drawers. Our attics, basements, and garages are filled with “someday clutter”:
- Items we rarely use.
- Things that are broken, in need of repair, or outdated.
- Heirlooms we’re saving for our kids or grandkids—even though they may not want them.
The Real Cost of Someday Clutter
Someday, clutter doesn’t just take up space—it takes up mental space too. Each item you hold onto demands something from you:
- Space – It makes your home feel cluttered and cramped.
- Time – You waste time organizing, cleaning, and maintaining it.
- Energy – It drains your focus and productivity.
But the hidden emotional costs are even greater:
- Stress and anxiety from too much clutter.
- Guilt and shame for accumulating so much stuff.
- Frustration and aggravation from constantly searching for things.
So why is it so hard to let go?
Because every item carries an emotional weight.
That unworn dress in your closet?
- “I’ll wear it again when I lose 10 pounds.”
- “I used to wear that when I was an executive.”
- “I still feel guilty about spending so much money on that jacket.”
Why Letting Go Matters
Someday clutter is a burden—it keeps you focused on imagined scenarios rather than your life right now.
- “What if I need that old appliance manual even though I replaced it?”
- “What if I need that broken lamp? I can fix it… someday.”
But the reality is that clutter prevents you from living in the present. It controls your space, your time, and your energy.
The Benefits of Letting Go
Imagine finally decluttering your someday clutter.
You wouldn’t just be clearing out physical space—you’d be releasing the emotional weight that’s been holding you back.
You’d be making room for:
✅ New experiences
✅ A calmer, more peaceful home
✅ Less stress and more freedom
How to Let Go of Someday Clutter
1️⃣ Reframe the conversation with yourself.
- Instead of asking, “What if I need this someday?” ask:
- “What is this costing me in space, time, and peace of mind?”
- “Am I holding onto this out of habit or fear?”
2️⃣ Commit to letting go.
- Schedule a decluttering session.
- Take it one item at a time.
- Be tough on yourself—it’s worth it!
3️⃣ Don’t second-guess yourself.
- Decide ahead of time where you’ll donate or sell the items.
- Stick to your decisions—no backtracking!
4️⃣ Use this list to motivate yourself.
Common “Someday Clutter” Items to Let Go Of:
- Clothes you haven’t worn in years.
- Books, magazines, and papers you planned to read but never did.
- Unused or broken household items.
- Outdated/damaged tools and electronics (wires, chargers, etc.).
- Multiple kitchenware items (mugs, dishes, water bottles).
- Junk mail, old receipts, and outdated documents.
- Plastic food containers with mismatched lids.
- Outdated home décor.
- Expired toiletries.
- Toys your kids have outgrown.
- Craft supplies you haven’t touched in years.
- Family heirlooms you don’t want—and your kids don’t want either.
- Bargain items you never used.
- Broken items you intended to fix but never did.
These are just some of the things we convince ourselves we might need someday.
The Bottom Line
The truth is, someday rarely comes.
By letting go of clutter today, you’re making space for a lighter, freer, and more peaceful life.
Why wait? Start decluttering now—your future self will thank you.
SHARE YOUR STORY!
Sign up for Rita’s FREE Newsletter HERE!
Never miss an episode! Click the following link to like Rita’s Facebook page or subscribe to her Decluttering YouTube Channel. Check out our YouTube playlists if you want to learn more.
