26 Things in Your Basement That a Professional Organizer Would Throw Out

Basements are the land of “I’ll deal with it later.” Boxes pile up, random gadgets get shoved into corners, and before you know it, the space becomes a museum of forgotten items. But if you asked a professional organizer to take a look, they’d probably tell you the same thing: most of it needs to go.

Whether you’re preparing for a deep clean, decluttering before a move, or simply tired of the chaos, here are 26 things in your basement that a professional organizer would toss without hesitation.

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1. Expired Paint Cans

If it’s separated, lumpy, or older than your last phone upgrade, it’s done. Most people never reuse old paint.

2. Mystery Boxes You Haven’t Opened in Years

If you don’t know what’s inside, chances are you don’t need it.

3. Old Electronics and Broken Gadgets

VCRs, broken DVD players, ancient computers—recycle them responsibly.

4. Extra Cords and Cables

That box labeled “random cords”? It’s clutter in disguise.

5. Damaged Holiday Decorations

Broken ornaments, tangled lights that haven’t worked since 2010—time to let go.

6. Expired Canned Goods

Basements aren’t pantries. Toss anything past its date.

7. Old Magazines and Newspapers

Unless they’re historically valuable, they’re just paper clutter.

8. Moldy or Damaged Cardboard Boxes

Moisture and cardboard do not mix. Replace with plastic bins.

9. Old Paint Rollers, Brushes, and DIY Supplies

If they’re dried out or crusty, they’re useless.

10. Duplicate Tools You Don’t Use

No one needs five hammers or three sets of mismatched wrenches.

11. Rusted Tools and Hardware

If they’re unsafe or unusable, out they go.

12. Unfinished DIY Projects

If you haven’t touched it in a year, you probably never will.

13. Rugs and Carpets With Water Damage

Dampness breeds mold—and mold belongs in the trash.

14. Old Sports Equipment

Flat basketballs, bent bats, or gear your kids have outgrown.

15. Random Furniture You’ll ‘Fix Someday’

If “someday” hasn’t come in years, it’s time.

16. Damaged Plastic Storage Bins

Cracked totes don’t protect anything.

17. Broken Outdoor Gear

Rusty lawn chairs, damaged patio umbrellas—ditch them.

18. Outgrown Kids’ Toys

If they haven’t been played with in years, donate or toss.

19. Old Clothing Bins

Basements can mildew fabric quickly. If it smells musty, it’s done.

20. College Stuff You’ve Been ‘Meaning to Sort’

Those binders, posters, and random souvenirs can go.

21. Expired Cleaning Supplies

Yes, cleaning products expire—and expired ones don’t work.

22. Old Pet Supplies

Crates, bowls, or toys that are broken or unused.

23. Random Wood Scraps and Building Materials

Keep what you’ll actually use. The rest is clutter.

24. Damaged Luggage or Backpacks

If the zipper’s broken or the wheels don’t roll, it’s not worth storing.

25. Home Décor You No Longer Like

If it’s been in a box for years, it’s not making a comeback.

26. Anything You’re Keeping Out of Guilt

Gifts you never liked, family hand-me-downs you don't want, old hobbies you’ve abandoned—these weigh you down mentally and physically.

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How to Declutter Your Basement Without Getting Overwhelmed

Start small: One shelf, one corner, or one box at a time.
Sort with purpose: Keep, donate, toss, recycle.
Ask the key question: Would I buy this again today?
Switch to better storage: Use sealed plastic tubs and clear labels.

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The Bottom Line

Basements have a way of quietly collecting life’s leftovers. But clearing them out opens space, reduces stress, and makes your home more functional. A professional organizer knows that letting go is the hardest part—but also the most liberating.