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Writer's pictureEllie Azerad

Things I No Longer Buy as a Minimalist



Introduction: In a world filled with consumerism and materialism, it's essential to take a step back and evaluate our purchasing habits. As I embarked on my journey towards minimalism, I found myself questioning the necessity of the items I brought into my life. This blog post explores the things I no longer buy, as I prioritize simplicity, practicality, and conscious consumption.

  1. Plastic water bottles: Realizing the environmental impact of single-use plastic, I made a conscious shift towards reusable water bottles. Investing in good quality, durable bottles not only reduces waste but also ensures that I always have a reliable hydration solution.

  2. Plastic straws: By opting for stainless steel straws and utilizing stainless steel brushes for cleaning, I eliminated the need for single-use plastic straws. It's a small change that has made a significant positive impact on the environment.

  3. Single-use appliances and gadgets: Simplifying my life meant letting go of single-use appliances and gadgets that only added clutter. I found that I could accomplish most tasks with basic tools such as a knife and a peeler, eliminating the need for excessive kitchen gadgets.

  4. Furniture to fill up space: Instead of filling my living spaces with unnecessary furniture, I embraced a minimalist approach. I evaluated each piece and only kept items that were essential, creating an environment that promotes functionality and openness.

  5. Decor items: Decorating my space used to be a constant battle against dust and clutter. By minimizing the number of decor items, I reduced the time spent maintaining and cleaning them. Now, my living areas are clean, spacious, and free from unnecessary distractions.

  6. Make-up remover and nail polish: Simplifying my beauty routine became a priority. Instead of using multiple products, I discovered that baby wipes or mineral oil effectively serve as make-up removers. Similarly, I downsized my collection of nail polish to one neutral color, simplifying my choices.

  7. Single-use cleaning products: Choosing cleaning products that serve multiple purposes has been a game-changer. Basic, homemade natural cleaning solutions not only reduce clutter but also minimize exposure to harsh chemicals, benefiting both my health and the environment.

  8. Gifts for children: Shifting the focus from material possessions, I now prioritize gifting my children with experiences. Whether it's a trip to the zoo, a day at a museum, or quality time spent together, these experiences create lasting memories and foster personal growth.

  9. Souvenirs: Rather than collecting physical souvenirs from my travels, I shifted to capturing memories through photographs. Keeping a photo album filled with images from special places allows me to reminisce and share those experiences without the clutter.

  10. Items on sale: Recognizing that a great price does not equate to necessity, I now carefully evaluate the value and purpose of any item before making a purchase. This mindset prevents impulsive buying and helps me maintain a clutter-free environment.

  11. Cookbooks: While I appreciate the aesthetics and recipes in cookbooks, I found that they added unnecessary clutter to my space. Instead, I turn to magazines for cooking inspiration, passing them on or recycling them afterward to maintain a minimalist lifestyle.

  12. Minimizing papers: Reducing paper clutter was a significant step towards minimalism. I digitized important documents and kept only essential physical copies, like birth certificates and legal documents. This change not only organized my space but also contributed to a more sustainable lifestyle.

Conclusion: Transitioning towards minimalism has transformed my perspective on consumption and decluttered my life. By questioning the necessity and purpose of each item, I have created a living space that emphasizes functionality, mindfulness, and environmental consciousness. Letting go of things I no longer need has allowed me to focus on what truly matters, fostering a sense of contentment and freedom. Embracing minimalism is an ongoing journey, and I look forward to continuing to simplify and streamline my life.

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