5 things to get rid of before spring, according to professional organizers

Although it’s fine to hold onto the blender you use to make a daily protein shake, Hope Kerner of All Things Neat by Hope told BI it’s important to rethink the trendy kitchen appliances taking up unnecessary space.

“People tend to buy air fryers and giant blenders and panini presses, and if you don’t use it, it’s just taking up valuable real estate in your cabinets,” she said.

Checking the quality of utensils in the kitchen is not only a good way to free up space but also a smart choice for your safety.

Consider tossing cracked or damaged ones, like wooden spoons or silicone spatulas, which can be difficult to clean and harbor bacteria.

If you have dull knives you don’t use anymore, sharpen them or take them out of the kitchen.

“Knives become dull if they’re not maintained, and then they become dangerous,” Kerner said. “Good cookware and good knives are essential in the kitchen.”

Kerner also recommended sorting through the plasticware taking up space in the cabinet.

Although people buy containers of all shapes and sizes, they’re often forgotten items left in the back of the cabinet, taking away valuable storage space in the kitchen.

Nathalie Navarro of Todo en Orden RD said the change of seasons is the best time to evaluate the clothes in your closet.

Although this can be an emotional process, Navarro said it’s important to remain rational while sorting through the racks. For example, it’s probably smart to donate a forgotten sweater or jeans that fit a little too tight.

“The questions people need to ask themselves are: If I keep it, will it take up space in my closet? If I get rid of it, do I have the financial means to buy it again? And lastly, do I already have a good replacement for it?” she told BI.

Meghan Cocchiaro of Organized by Meg also emphasized the importance of sorting through your closet to welcome a new season. “Clothing is a great category to go through when seasons change,” she said.

As the seasons change, Cocchiaro told BI it’s a good time to tackle organizing the garage.

Getting rid of bulkier items like cardboard boxes and outdoor equipment, as well as duplicates of certain items, can help free up space.

For example, it’s unlikely you’ll need six rakes, but putting all your gardening equipment in one spot can help you take stock of what you have.