The 10 Things I Find in Almost Every Home

After years of working in clients' homes across the Valley, I've noticed a pattern: no matter the size of the home, income level, or stage of life, there are certain items I find almost everywhere.

The good news? You're not alone. Most clutter isn't unique, it's surprisingly common. Here are 10 things I find in almost every home and what to do about them.

1. Water Bottles

For some reason, water bottles multiply when we're not looking. Take inventory, choose your favorites, and donate or recycle the rest. Most people only use a handful regularly.

2. Reusable Shopping Bags

Many of us have great intentions, but those reusable bags can quickly take over a pantry, closet, or garage. Keep a reasonable number and donate extras to a local food bank, school, or charity.

3. Mismatched Food Containers

We've all got that cabinet. If the lid doesn't have a match or the container is cracked, it's time to let it go. Your future self will thank you every time you open the cabinet.

4. Duplicate Cleaning Supplies

I often find three half-used bottles of the same product in different areas of the home.

Gather everything in one place, see what you actually have, and avoid buying duplicates.

5. Old Cords and Chargers

If you don't know what it belongs to and haven't used it in years, chances are you don't need it.

Create one designated bin for cords and let go of the mystery cables.

6. Clothes That No Longer Fit

Many closets are filled with items being saved for "someday." Keep what fits your current lifestyle and makes you feel good today.

7. Expired Medications

Bathroom cabinets and medicine drawers are often filled with expired products.

Take a few minutes to check dates and safely dispose of anything that is no longer needed.

8. Unfinished Hobby Supplies

Craft projects, workout equipment, baking tools, and other hobbies can easily accumulate.

Ask yourself if it's a current hobby or a past version of yourself you're holding onto.

9. Paper Piles

Mail, receipts, school papers, and miscellaneous documents seem to find their way onto every counter. Most papers only require one of three actions: file it, act on it, or recycle it.

10. The "I'll Deal With It Later" Drawer

You know the one. It's where random items go when we're not sure where they belong. Almost every home has one, and honestly, that's okay—as long as it doesn't become three or four.

The Takeaway

If you recognized yourself in this list, don't worry. These are some of the most common items I see every week, and they don't mean you're disorganized. The goal isn't perfection. It's creating a home where you can easily find what you need, maintain your space, and spend less time managing stuff.

Sometimes the biggest difference comes from tackling the small things that have quietly accumulated over time.