Top 15 Items Wasting Space In Your Home
If you’re craving more breathing room in your home, you’re not alone. Often, the things that take up the most space are the ones we’ve grown used to seeing and maybe even forgotten we have. Below, I’m sharing 15 common items that could be wasting space in your home, plus ideas on how to rethink or replace them for a more open, clutter-free environment.
Of course, if any of these 15 items are serving a real purpose in your home and making your life easier, then there’s no reason to part with them. Decluttering isn’t about following a strict set of rules; it’s about creating a space that works for you.
The goal is to be intentional, keeping the things that add value and letting go of what no longer fits your lifestyle.
1. Oversized Entertainment Centers
If your entertainment unit is still taking up an entire wall, it might be time to reconsider. Mounting your TV on the wall can instantly open up a room.
When I removed ours, I was shocked at how much space we gained.
2. Exercise Equipment in Living Areas
Unless you’re regularly using that treadmill or elliptical in your living room, it’s likely just collecting dust (and clutter).
Try relocating it or selling it to free up space.
Watch The Video Here:
Here is a video explaining this process, including photo examples.
3. Decorative Baskets of Blankets
They may look cozy, but those baskets of throws and pillows often go unused and simply gather dust. If you find you’re not actually reaching for them, try folding and storing them with your linens or in a closet instead.
This not only keeps them clean but also frees up valuable floor space, making your room feel more open. If you like having a blanket handy for movie nights, keep just one draped neatly over the back of your sofa or armchair.
And if you truly have more than you need, consider donating the extras to a local shelter where they can be put to good use.
4. Entryway Tables
While beautiful in large homes, entry tables can crowd narrow entryways.
If you have a thin entry hall, try skipping the entryway table. Instead, you could add some hooks for coats or keys.
5. Sitting Areas at the Foot of the Bed
Benches or couches at the end of the bed look dreamy in photos, but in smaller bedrooms, they’re a tripping hazard.
Most of these couches or benches go unused anyway. Skip it unless you have space to spare.
6. Coffee Tables and Extra Side Tables
Coffee tables are traditional, but not always necessary. Removing ours made our living room more kid-friendly, walkable, and open.
Bonus: no more dusting or clearing clutter from tabletops.
We also have a no food or drinks policy in our living room, which is another reason this works.
7. Extra Chairs in Bedrooms or Bathrooms
Unless they’re regularly used, extra chairs tend to collect laundry or clutter.
If it’s decorative but not functional, it might be time to part ways.
8. Bulky Kitchen Appliances
If you’re not using that slow cooker, juicer, or air fryer, consider donating it.
Large appliances hog prime cabinet and counter space.
9. Oversized Furniture
Some furniture trends favor bulk over function, think wide armrests and deep cushions.
If your space feels cramped, look for slimmer, streamlined pieces instead.
10. Curio Cabinets for Decorative Items
Curio cabinets can be beautiful, but if they’re storing forgotten collectibles, rethink how you display the things you love.
Incorporate them into everyday decor or let go of what no longer sparks joy.
11. Guest Rooms That Are Rarely Used
If your guest room sits empty most of the year, you may be losing a valuable everyday space.
Consider a Murphy bed or dual-purpose office/guest room setup. This will all depend on how often you have guests.
We use our third room as an office, and when a guest comes, we pop up a blow-up mattress and convert it into a guest room for a few days.
12. Stored Decor You Never Use
Decor storage bins can multiply fast. If you’re not rotating or using items seasonally, it may be time to declutter and keep only the pieces you truly love.
Setting a limit can also help to save money and keep the clutter away. We have 2 Christmas decor bins, and when they are full, we have to declutter something before bringing more in.
13. Large, Outdated Sound Systems
With compact, high-quality speakers now available, there’s no reason to keep bulky sound systems, especially if they’re not in use.
14. Toy Storage in the Main Living Area
I stopped storing toys in our living room and now keep everything in my kids’ rooms.
It keeps common areas cleaner and helps kids take ownership of their stuff.
15. Plants (Yes, Even Plants!)
As much as I love greenery, even plants can overwhelm a room when there are too many or when they’re large and dying.
Edit your collection occasionally to keep your home feeling fresh and light.
By taking the time to notice and let go of these space-wasting items, you’re not just clearing clutter, you’re creating room for the things that truly support your daily life. Remember, a home should work for you, not against you.
Start small, stay consistent, and you’ll be amazed at how much lighter, calmer, and more functional your space can feel.
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