Decluttering isn’t always easy, but if you’re trying to declutter, here are some do-not-buys: 

1. Anything trendy: Remember the neon trend? Then it was the crushed velvet dress trend? Steering clear of trends can help decrease the likelihood you’ll need to find a new place to store last season’s impulse buys.

2. One time use items: Yes, that doughnut maker is really cute, and your pineapple corer sure does make life easier the three times a year you buy the tropical fruit. See where I’m going with this? Unitaskers are often one-off problem-solvers but long-term space-consumers. If you get a little resourceful, you can probably find a multi-purpose tool that works just as well.

3. Anything you’re buying (just in case): There are a few places you’re likely already storing “just in case” items in your home: your closet, your pantry, and your junk drawer. It’s great to be prepared, but if you’re actively trying to cull through your home, the most forward-thinking thing you can do is not buy things you’re not totally sure you’ll need.

4. Seasonal items: Don’t worry — your Christmas ornaments are safe here. Narrow your list down to the holidays or occasions you love most, or the ones that you’re most likely to spend hosting. For everything else, commit to keeping your home seasonally appropriate but not holiday-specific in an effort to reduce clutter.

5. Stuff from the clearance bin: It’s a 4 letter word that can sucker most of us: SALE. It’s a word that stimulates impulse buying. Stay clear, unless you have something specific in mind – then focus on that alone.