Bills That Can Go Digital
Nowadays, we can decide to go digital with some things that were traditionally always sent as paper - like bills you can choose to receive electronically. “No need for a paper copy when you have a digital copy,” Flinn points out. Visit your credit card’s website and opt into digital bills.
Other Items That Can Be Electronic
Stewart notes, “Technology can be a wonderful thing when it comes to paper clutter because we have a choice to receive communication in emails versus post office mail.” In addition to bills, there are other items that can go digital as well. Think: bank statements, church or school newsletters, warranties, and receipts.
Instruction Manuals
From coffee makers to lawn equipment, it’s still standard practice even in today’s digital world to receive a manual with appliances and other items for the home. Although it might feel sacrilegious (What if I need that?! you might think), Stewart says manuals can be tossed. “Manuals can be found online and no longer need to take up precious space in a cabinet or filing cabinet,” she says.
Junk Mail
There’s a reason why it’s called “junk mail,” after all. As Stewart says, “Junk mail is a quick and easy toss because it is typically advertisements for things we don’t need - win-win with no paper clutter and not bringing things we don’t need into our home.” If it’s coupons you never see yourself using or a penny saver newspaper you’ll never read, put it out for recycling.
Invitations
It might be tempting to hold onto things like invitations and save-the-date cards. After all, someone took time and thought to send these to guests like you, and you’ll feel bad if you throw it away. Apart from invitations to really special events, Stewart emphasizes the importance of entering the information into a calendar and tossing them. “Taking care of this quickly eliminates clutter sitting around on counters or desks,” she adds.
Some Kids’ Artwork
Not every piece of artwork your child brings home needs to be kept forever. A practical approach is to photograph the pieces you want to remember and recycle the paper originals, keeping only the most meaningful works to display or store.
