10 Things Your Kitchen Doesn’t Need This Year

by | Jan 30, 2025 | Cleaning | 0 comments

Say bye to these items—and hello to more space.

By: Amanda Lauren

group of spices on a counter
Photo: Leonid Sneg/Getty Images

Are you looking to kick off 2025 with a cleaner, more organized kitchen? If so, it might be time to clear out some unnecessary items. While getting rid of expired food is a given, there are plenty of other things cluttering your kitchen that you may not even realize are there. Here are ten things your kitchen doesn’t need this year.

MEET THE EXPERT

Shantae Duckworth, professional organizer and founder of Shantaeize Your Space

Broken Gadgets

Shantae Duckworth, founder of Shantaeize Your Space and professional organizer, says your kitchen doesn’t need broken gadgets that will likely never get fixed. “If they’ve been sitting in a drawer waiting for that someday repair, it’s time to let them go. They’re just taking up space, and you’ve likely already adapted without them.”

However, if it’s something you truly miss using, like a blender with a dead motor, toss it out if it can’t be repaired (check on proper disposal methods in your area), and commit to replacing it.

TikTok Finds You Never Use

Remember that cool gadget TikTok made you buy? How often have you actually used it? We’re not judging, but these things take up far more space than you probably realize. If it’s been collecting dust, Duckworth recommends getting rid of it. “Yes, this includes that veggie spiralizer you thought would change your life. If it hasn’t seen the light of day in a while, donate it and reclaim some precious drawer space.”

Small Appliances You Rarely Take Out

In the same vein as gadgets, most people have at least one or two small kitchen appliances they never use. It’s okay. Not everyone can master air frying. Duckworth advises finding them a new home: “Appliances like the yogurt maker or bread machine you got and never used? If they’re collecting dust, pass them along to someone who’ll actually use them or donate them to a thrift shop.”

Expired Spices

Would you eat expired food? If not, you shouldn’t use expired spices either. “Remember those jars of paprika and oregano from five years ago? They’ve lost their flavor and are just taking up prime real estate,” says Duckworth.

Chipped Plates and Mugs

Plates and mugs inevitably chip because they aren’t made to last forever. They need to go in the trash—not just because they don’t look nice, but because they can be hazardous to your health. “They can harbor bacteria, and let’s face it, they don’t spark joy,” Duckworth says. Plus, you risk accidentally cutting yourself when you take a sip of your tea.

Duplicate Utensils

If you cook regularly, having an extra spatula or two makes sense. But do you really need seven? We didn’t think so. “You do not need duplicates of utensils you don’t even use! Five slotted spoons or three ice cream scoops aren’t necessary. Keep your favorites and donate the rest,” says Duckworth.

Old Food Containers

Food containers have a shorter shelf life than you probably anticipate, especially plastic ones. Over time, they can warp, crack, or break in the microwave or dishwasher, making them ineffective for keeping food fresh while hogging valuable shelves or drawer space. Duckworth recommends investing in a stackable set to reduce frustration and maximize the space you have.

Freebies or Promotional Items

“And what about freebies or promotional items, like mismatched water bottles or branded tumblers? If they’re cluttering your kitchen, it’s time to recycle or donate them,” Duckworth says. It’s fine to keep one or two quality water bottles, even if they have the logo of a local business, but you don’t need a dozen.

Unused Cookbooks

While you should keep the cookbooks you refer to regularly, you probably have a few in your kitchen that you rarely touch. Be realistic about whether they’re worth the space they take up. “If you’re always Googling recipes, those books collecting dust are just decoration. Keep one or two sentimental favorites and free up some shelf space,” Duckworth explains.

Dull Knives

Dull knives may not seem like a big deal, but they can be dangerous. You’re actually more likely to cut yourself with a dull knife because you have to use more force. If your knives can’t be sharpened or are so low-quality they are not worth sharpening, consider investing in a new set that will last and can be sharpened again and again.

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