5 min readThere’s something irresistibly intriguing about getting a glimpse into the real lives of professionals—especially those whose job it is to declutter and streamline. Pro organizers are often known for their minimalist mindset, and are typically the first to suggest letting go of unused, unloved, or unnecessary items. “There’s a rule of thumb that if you can replace something for $20 or less, in 20 minutes or less, don’t save it,” says Barbara Reich, owner of Life Organized and author of Secrets of an Organized Mom.
However, even the most dedicated organizers have a few exceptions to their own rules. While their general philosophy may lean toward simplifying and reducing clutter, they also recognize the importance of keeping certain items for practical, emotional, or occasional use. If you’ve got the space and a system to keep things tidy, there’s nothing wrong with holding onto a select number of household wares that might not be used daily but can be incredibly useful when the moment calls for them.
From backup kitchen tools to seasonal decor or sentimental keepsakes, some possessions may not seem essential at first glance. Still, when a specific situation arises, you’ll be thankful you kept them. Organizing pros understand this balance well, and they advocate for keeping things that genuinely serve a purpose—as long as they’re stored thoughtfully. Ahead, learn which everyday items that might seem skippable can actually be surprisingly handy to have around.
Assorted Tools
When it’s Christmas Eve, and you’re struggling to assemble a dollhouse, or you just moved and are trying to put together a shelving unit from IKEA, you’ll be happy you hung onto that hammer, wrench, and screwdriver. “You may not consider yourself handy, but tools are helpful in case of emergencies and for minor repairs,” says Stephanie Greenberg, creative director at Jane’s Addiction Organization.
How to store them: “If you have wall space in your garage or basement, organize tools on a pegboard, but a toolbox, bag, or bin will do the trick if you’re planning on storing tools under the kitchen sink,” Greenberg says. “Just be sure to separate and label smart parts, screws, and nails into plastic containers and label them.”
Extra Birthday Candles
We’ve all been there: You go out of your way to buy (or bake!) a cake, only to realize two minutes before you’re about to sing that you don’t have any candles. That’s why it’s important to never throw these out. “I’m always in favor of keeping birthday candles on hand, especially because they don’t take up much space,” Reich says.
How to store them: Store them in your pantry in a clear container so you always know where to find them.
Umbrellas
Umbrellas are easily lost or broken, so they're a good thing to hang onto for a rainy day (literally). Keeping a few nearby the door for you or a guest to use is wise; having enough to outfit the entire neighborhood is unnecessary.
How to store them: “Place as many as you can fit in an umbrella stand,” says Reich. If you don’t have one, they are a wise investment and can look very stylish in a front hall. You can also add one or two to each of your cars so you’re never stuck without.
Seasonal Decor
“There is no better way to add warmth and festivity to your home than with a few seasonal accents,” says Greenberg. Since holiday decor is so expensive (and often sentimental), it’s not something you want to shop for every year. Resist the urge to buy anew each season by caring for the decor items you do have and storing them properly so they’ll last for years to come.
How to store them: Go through your decorations to weed out things that are broken or worn out, and then pack whatever can still be used next year in clear plastic containers that are clearly labeled by holiday. “Using the same size and shape container for all your decor will make it easier to stack and store them,” Greenberg adds.
Free Airplane Headphones
If you want to watch TV or a movie on a flight, you will need to bring headphones or buy them from a flight attendant once you board the plane. It's a good idea to keep a pair or two around the house so you're not forking over (more) money every time you want to zone out on your flight.
How to store them: Store a pair of headphones in each piece of carry-on luggage so every family member always has a pair whenever you travel. “They take up no space!” says Reich.
Artwork
Unlike old furniture, art is fairly easy to store and is more likely to be used again in your home when you need a change of scenery. “Rotating art can make a house feel brand new again,” says professional organizer Corrie Jackson, co-founder of Maison Haven Luxe Organizers. “It just needs to be stored properly to prevent damage.”
How to store them: Wrap each piece of art tightly with a blanket or bubble wrap, and then either store them upright in a box or slide an acid-free foam board between each wrapped piece of artwork. Clearly label each box so you don’t disturb your collection every time you go hunting around for a certain picture.
Vintage Dishware
Greenberg suggests not only holding onto these unique tabletop items but also rotating them in with your everyday dinnerware. And it doesn’t matter if pieces have been broken over the years, and you no longer have a full set: “It’s rare that you will still have—or will be able to find—a full set, but that shouldn’t stop you from mixing and matching the pieces you have to create a charming and whimsical tablescape.” This advice extends to anything precious around your home that would be hard to ever find again.
How to organize them: Keep them in a cabinet where they’re easy to reach to remind yourself to use them.
Complimentary Toothbrushes From the Dentist
Most of us toss these or have them haphazardly stashed under the sink, “but they are a good thing to have around when you have houseguests,” says Jen Rowe, owner, NEAT Method Toronto.
How to organize them: Place a couple of these individually wrapped toothbrushes in a basket along with other products and set the basket in your guest bathroom to create an inviting atmosphere.
Bottles of Wine (Even Ones You Don’t Like)
Chances are you have a few bottles of chardonnay hanging around that someone brought you as a hostess gift or that are left over from a party that you threw a few years ago. “I always keep a few extra bottles of wine on hand for last-minute hostess gifts," says Reich. “I have pre-printed cards that fit over the neck of the wine bottles that say ‘Love, Barbara and Jeff.’”
How to organize them: Store extra bottles in a cool, dark spot in case you need to bring one to a dinner party, or an unexpected guest stops by for a drink.
Important Documents
In a digital world, it can be tempting to get rid of paper—but it’s important to hold onto original copies of important documents related to your home and vehicle, and any documentation related to your identification (like your passport), as well as any legal documents, health records, or important certificates (university diplomas, marriage certificates, religious certificates).
How to organize them: “It’s best to store these in a fireproof safe,” says Rowe.
