5 things to get rid of in your New Year’s spring clean

This time of year can often spark the sudden and immediate urge to completely overhaul your life. My Instagram algorithm has ceased serving me helpful wrapping tips and now my homepage is a constant rotation of spotlessly clean homes where mess and excess don’t seem to exist. It can all be a little overwhelming if I’m honest. 

Don’t get me wrong, I love a spring clean as much as the next person but… where to start? Tempting as it might be to turn the house upside down and try and fix everything at once, my advice would be to start small – accomplish one task and you’ll be inspired to start another; upend every nook and cranny and the job will seem insurmountable.

So, with that in mind, here are five things to target if you need a little January refresh.

Gifts you won’t use

First things first, get rid of unwanted gifts. This might seem ruthless but if it’s not something you love and know you’ll get plenty of use out of, it will ultimately end up as clutter. I have fallen into the trap of holding onto things under the illusion that I will need them someday… I rarely—if ever—do. It’s ok to rehome items that don’t suit your taste, lifestyle, or that you already have; someone else will appreciate them. Keep things in their original packaging and regift them, sell them on Vinted/Depop or drop them into your local charity shop. I promise you’ll feel all the better for it.

Expired food items 

This one’s an obvious one but a fridge clear out post-Christmas is essential. Most families tend to overbuy in the run-up to December 25, so there are probably things hidden at the bottom of drawers that you’ve completely forgotten about. Cull expired products, wipe the shelves, and reorganise the remaining produce so you can use it up in your next meal. If your fruit bowl is burdened with overripe fruit, whip up a loaf of fresh banana bread and invite your neighbour round for a cuppa.

Old beauty products

On that note, your make-up bag probably needs a refresh too. Start by checking expiration dates on products – old mascaras or dried-up foundations two shades too dark should be the first to go. Next on the chopping block? Products you never reach for; think red lipstick you’re too scared to wear, glitter eyeliner you bought for a gig three summers ago, old lip balms smeared with unidentified pocket fluff. You most likely restocked on a few favourites over the festive season so now’s the time to use up the last drops of near-empty tubes and toss them too. Finish by cleaning your makeup brushes and arranging staples for easy access.