7 Old Household Items Found During Major Cleanups

Have you ever tackled a big cleanup project and stumbled upon something that made you chuckle or scratch your head in confusion? You’re not alone! As we dive into spring cleaning or those occasional purges of clutter, we often unearth relics from the past that prompt a trip down memory lane. Here are seven old household items you might just find while sorting through your belongings — and maybe even a few tips on what to do with them!

1. The Classic VHS Tapes

a pile of different colored and black and yellow business cards — Photo by Bruno Guerrero

Remember when watching a movie meant rewinding a tape, or worse, having to deal with that annoying static when the tape got chewed up? Chances are, if you’ve got a collection of VHS tapes gathering dust, they’re a mix of beloved films and those cringe-worthy titles you bought on impulse. If you’re feeling nostalgic, you could dig out a VCR from the back of the closet and have a retro movie night. Or, if you’re ready to move on, consider converting them to digital — because who really needs to see “Titanic” in grainy, fuzzy quality anymore?

2. The Mysterious Tupperware Lids

Ah, the eternal question: where do all the Tupperware lids go? It’s like they vanish into thin air, leaving behind a collection of mismatched containers. If you’ve got a drawer full of these orphaned lids, take a moment to sift through. You might find a lid that actually fits something! Or, if you’re feeling crafty, those containers can be repurposed for organizing small items like craft supplies or even as quirky planters. Just make sure to give them a good wash first — we don’t need last week’s spaghetti lurking in the corners!

3. Old Cookbooks

Flipping through old cookbooks can be like stepping into a time machine. From the vibrant photographs of dishes we wouldn’t dare serve today to the handwritten notes in the margins from previous owners, these books tell stories. Maybe you’ll find a long-lost family recipe that’s worth reviving, or perhaps you’ll just enjoy the nostalgia as you laugh at those bizarre 80s jello salads. If you’ve got duplicates or ones you’re never going to use, consider donating them to a local library or community center. Someone else might just be looking for that perfect recipe to impress their dinner guests!

4. Vintage Electronics

It’s amazing how quickly technology evolves. One day you’re rocking out to your cassette player, and the next, you’re streaming music through a smart speaker. If you’ve got old electronics like flip phones, pagers, or even that ancient boom box, you might be wondering what to do with them. Some of these items can be recycled at special e-waste events, while others might fetch a pretty penny on resale sites. Who knows? Someone out there might be dying to add that retro flair to their collection!

5. Board Games from the Past

If there’s anything that can bring back those childhood memories, it’s a dusty box of board games. Whether it’s Monopoly, Operation, or even the slightly terrifying Ouija board, there’s something special about gathering around a table for a game night. Before tossing them out, check if all the pieces are still there — you might be surprised at how much fun you can have sharing a laugh over the ridiculous rules and questionable strategies. And if they’re missing too many pieces to be usable, consider donating them to schools or community centers for arts and crafts projects!

6. Old Photo Albums

In this age of digital photography, stumbling upon an old photo album can feel like finding buried treasure. Those grainy images of family gatherings, vacations, and awkward school portraits deserve a moment of appreciation. Take a trip down memory lane and enjoy the nostalgia, but don’t forget to digitize those photos! You can create an online gallery or even print out a few favorites for your wall. Plus, it’s a great way to share those memories with family members who may not have seen them in ages.

7. The Lonely Christmas Decorations

Finally, let’s talk about that box of Christmas decorations that only sees the light of day once a year. You know the one — filled with ornaments that have seen better days and lights that may or may not work. While some of those decorations might hold sentimental value, others could be ready for retirement. Take stock of what you’ve got, and decide if it’s time to let go of the items that no longer spark joy.

Willow and Hearth