The Power of Removing Duplicates

Have you ever opened a drawer and found three can openers, five rolls of tape or two staplers? It’s surprisingly easy to accumulate duplicate items without even realizing it. But these extras take up space—both physically and mentally.

While working with a client to clean out his workbench last week, he expected to find two dozen screwdrivers; we found more than 40.  Among them were his dad’s set as well as one that had always been with his drum set.

Another client had 8 nail clippers and 9 grooming tools for her dogs. She admitted that since the dogs don’t like getting their nails trimmed, she and her wife kept buying clippers, hoping to find a solution that would work well.

Removing duplicate items is a simple but powerful way to keep your space tidy. Here’s why it matters:

• Less Clutter: Every duplicate item is one more thing to store, clean around, or dig past when you’re looking for something else.

• More Clarity: When you pare down to just what you need, it’s easier to see what you have and where it is. It also helps prevent overbuying.

• Easier to Maintain: Fewer items mean faster cleaning, simpler organization, and less stress when tidying up.

You don’t need five spatulas or six water bottles that do the same thing. Choose the best and let go of the rest. When you keep what you use and love, your home (and life) feels lighter and more manageable.