Weekend Warrior Challenge: Time to Toss

 

If you don't have much on the weekend radar, I encourage you to get in the purging mode. If you want to get ambitious and tackle your closet or garage, more power to you but I've found that sometimes a few smaller projects make you feel just as accomplished and refreshed as a massive one. So here's a few to get your juices flowing. I bet you won't be able to stop at just one. ;)

Project 1: Toss the cardboard boxes

Ditch the cardboard boxes and plastic bags that go with your cereal, snacks and dry goods. They're ugly, take up lots of space and don't keep your food fresh. Instead, opt for glass mason jars or airtight food storage containers.

Project 2: Toss your wire hangers

Ditch those dry cleaner hangers for matching plastic or wooden versions. Key word: matching.

Project 4: Socks without a mate

 

We all have that bag of socks without their, ahem, sole mate. How this happens still blows my mind. If you've done a full round of laundry without finding their partner, it's time to let them go.

 

Project 5: Expired make-up

 

How long have those cosmetics been lurking in your makeup bag? Mascara should be replaced every three months. Foundation and concealer are good for about a year, while lipstick, eye shadow and blush should be replaced every two years. But if you haven't worn it in 6-12 months, my guess is you'll go out and buy something new before resorting back to last season's colors.

 

Project 6: Old spices

 

Most ground spices should be replaced after 12 months. A simple test? Give each one a whiff. If there's no scent, there will be no flavor. Go ahead and toss it!

 

Project 7: Cards/random papers

 

You've enjoyed them, now it's time to let them go. Record any addresses to your phone or computer before chucking them into the recycling bin.

 

Project 8: Unidentified or expired objects

 

Toss any unidentifiable objects in the refrigerator or freezer. And while you're in the kitchen - throw away any canned goods past their expiration date. If you discover still-good packaged food you didn't like or won't eat, donate to a local food pantry.