Too Much of a Good Thing?
If you’ve been following our series on the important items you may not realize you need for your new home until move-in day, you already know we’ve covered many everyday essentials that aren’t included when you purchase a new home. Today, we’re wrapping up the series with a different kind of list — one featuring items most people tend to collect far too many of.
These are the things that pile up in closets, cabinets, and drawers, even though you may only need a few. With a little intentional organization (and maybe a quick visit to our Design Studio for smart storage ideas), you can simplify and reclaim valuable space.
- Sheets – Unless someone wets the bed or laundry rarely gets done, two to three sets per bed are plenty.
- Glasses – Take a look at how you actually drink and entertain. Do you need every type of wine glass, or will 4–6 multipurpose stemware pieces do the job? And seriously… how many souvenir coffee mugs do you really need?
- Containers for Leftovers – Tupperware, Gladware, and repurposed containers tend to multiply. Keep the ones with lids that match — donate or recycle the rest.
- Towels – Like sheets, 2–3 sets per person is enough. Many linen closets overflow with stacks that never get used.
- Health & Beauty Products – It’s easy to overindulge here. Use what you have before buying more, and skip collecting hotel minis that become clutter.
- Cleaning Products – Before buying the next “miracle” cleaner, finish what’s already under your sink. If you try something new and don’t like it, give it away or donate it.
- Books – Unless you plan to reread them, consider donating or selling your finished books. Use your local library to cut down on storage needs — but always keep your child’s favorite bedtime stories.
- Candles, Guest Soaps & Bath Goodies – Use them! If you’re not burning or bathing with them, tuck them into drawers and closets to add subtle fragrance.
- Hangers – Keep a few extras, but too many take up space. Uniform hangers help keep your closet tidy.
- Vases – If you save every florist vase, you probably have a cabinet full. Donate extras or recycle them.
- Reusable Shopping Bags – Keep only what you actually use for a shopping trip plus one extra.
- Spices – Spices expire quickly. Only stock what you use frequently unless you're a professional chef.
- T-Shirts – Concert tees, sports tees, promo tees… they pile up fast. Keep your favorites and donate the rest.
- Rags – Only cotton fabrics absorb well. Limit yourself to what fits in a single drawer or bag.
Once you let go of the excess, you’ll enjoy a cleaner, calmer home — and more storage than you realized you had. Sometimes, less truly is more!
For more ways to enhance and personalize your new Ernest home, explore our new home communities or reach out through our contact page. We’re here to help you make the most of every room.
