Harvesting Simplicity - 10 Surprising Things We No Longer Keep
- Melissa Cotton
- 5 days ago
- 4 min read
Melissa Cotton is the creator of this series of posts, published monthly, entitled Harvesting Simplicity. She covers a variety of topics presented by Joshua Becker and others to help guide us all to live a more 'stuff-free' lifestyle. Just because it is free, does not mean we need to take and give it space in our lives.
Minimalism is not about living with nothing. It is about making space for what truly matters. Over time, we’ve realized that many items we thought were essential were actually weighing down our home. Here are 10 surprising things we no longer keep, and why life is simpler without them.
1. Iron & Ironing Board
Over time, we discovered they weren’t being used at all. Most of our clothing is made from wrinkle-resistant fabrics, and our routine is simple: We wash our clothes, give them a brief tumble in the dryer to fluff, then hang them to air-dry. It keeps our wardrobe looking fresh with almost no effort.
2. Wrapping Paper and Gift Bags
We used to keep a large supply of extra wrapping paper, gift bags, ribbon, and bows, but the storage quickly became excessive. It also made it difficult to keep track of what we actually had on hand. As a result, whenever I purchased a gift, I often bought additional wrapping materials simply because I wasn’t sure what was already at home. Now, I purchase only what we need, keeping the process simple and clutter-free.
3. Candles
We don’t keep or buy candles anymore since we hardly ever use them. They just ended up taking up space and getting forgotten in drawers. Getting rid of them has made our home feel simpler and more intentional.
4. Extra Sets of Sheets
One set per bed is all we really need, which keeps things simple and prevents clutter. After washing, everything goes straight back on the bed—no extra steps or storage necessary. It makes maintaining our space effortless and stress-free.
5. Holiday Dishes
We do not keep holiday-specific dishes. Our celebrations are just as meaningful without decorative plates, cups, or bowls. Using our everyday dishes simplifies preparation and cleanup, allowing us to focus on the people and moments that matter most. It also reduces clutter and storage needs, keeping our kitchen organized year-round.
6. Throw Pillows
We love keeping things clean and simple. Extra pillows just created more work and added visual clutter. The throw pillows were always ending up on the floor and needed to be picked up frequently. Letting them go has made our space feel calmer and easier to maintain.
7. Extra Towels
We keep just one set of towels in each bathroom to make things easier to store and manage. After washing, we put them straight back, ready to use. It keeps the bathroom tidy with minimal effort.
8. Bookshelves
We no longer keep bookshelves because they took up a lot of space and added visual clutter. Removing the shelves has made our home feel more open, calm, and easier to maintain. And now, we’re more intentional about the books we bring into our home.
9. Seasonal Decor for Every Holiday
We don’t keep seasonal decor for every holiday, as it often ends up taking more space than it’s worth. Instead, we focus on a few meaningful pieces that can be used year after year. Celebrations are more about the people and moments, rather than filling the space with decorations.
10. “Just in Case” Items
We no longer keep “just in case” items since they usually go unused and just take up space. Getting rid of them has freed up room and made our home feel lighter. It’s much easier to focus on what we actually need and use every day.
Why It Matters
Removing these items has done more than declutter our home—it’s simplified our routines, cleared mental space, and created room for what truly matters. Minimalism isn’t about less; it’s about making space for more meaningful moments.
If something brings value or joy to your life, keep it and use it. But if you’re holding onto things you no longer need or enjoy, let this be your gentle encouragement to let them go and create space for what adds meaning to your daily life.
Melissa is a first grade teacher with a double major in Elementary Education and Early Childhood. She also has a Master’s Degree in Education Administration. After reading T. Colin Campbell’s book, The China Study, she stopped eating the Standard American Diet (SAD) and has been eating a nutrient-rich, plant-based diet. In December 2023, she earned Dr Joel Fuhrman’s Nutritarian Coaching Certificate. Melissa is an active member of the National Health Association (NHA).
Melissa is also the writer/creator of our 2024 blog series Exploring GBOMBS. Her love for teaching and learning will support others on their journey for optimal health and wellness.
(currently publishing monthly)
(previously published)
Be well
Stop.Breathe.Focus.Move.Flow.
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