We all have tools and ingredients in our kitchens that we only reach for once in a blue moon. And when things begin to feel overly cluttered, it can be tempting to throw these away with abandon. But even those who declutter for a living advise against this method. Here’s what a professional organizer says is worth keeping the next time you’re cleaning out your kitchen; plus, see the items an executive chef finds surprisingly versatile.
I’ve been guilty of tossing things out in a frenzy to clear counter space, only to kick myself later when I needed that one odd tool or ingredient. From my own trial and error, I’ve learned that some items are worth hanging onto, even if they don’t get daily use. A quick survey I saw recently—think it was from a home organization blog—mentioned that 68% of people regret tossing kitchen tools they thought were “useless” within a year. So, let’s dig into the keepers that’ll save you from that sinking feeling.
01 of 09: Cast Iron Skillets
Cast iron skillets are timeless kitchen staples known for their durability and versatility. With proper seasoning and care, a cast-iron skillet can last for generations, offering an unbeatable sear and even heat distribution that modern pans simply cannot match. “Cast iron skillets are cooking essentials that never go out of style,” says professional organizer Melanie Seaver. “Although they are heavy and somewhat bulky, they are versatile cooking tools that stand the test of time.”
I’ve got a cast iron skillet from my grandma, and let me tell you, it’s the MVP of my kitchen. It’s heavy, sure, but it’s perfect for everything from cornbread to a juicy steak. The science behind it is pretty cool—cast iron retains heat like a champ because of its high thermal mass, which means it stays hot longer and cooks food evenly. A tip I picked up from a chef friend: if your skillet’s looking rough, scrub it with coarse salt and a potato cut in half to remove rust without ruining the seasoning. It’s a cheap fix, costing maybe a buck for a potato and some salt, compared to replacing a $50 skillet.
02 of 09: Meat Thermometer
Better not throw away this petite essential: Even if you only use your meat thermometer annually, you’ll be struck with regret the moment the occasion calls for it. A meat thermometer takes the guesswork out of cooking meats to a safe, juicy perfection (which can be useful for more than your yearly Thanksgiving turkey, by the way). This small gadget is the only one that can fulfill its singular purpose, so find it a permanent home in the drawer and pull it out during holiday meals or when cooking for a crowd.
I learned the hard way that eyeballing a roast is a gamble not worth taking—nothing ruins a dinner party like overcooked beef. A good meat thermometer, which you can snag for as little as $10, ensures you hit the USDA-recommended internal temps (like 165°F for poultry or 145°F for pork). If you’re like me and only use it a few times a year, keep it in a labeled ziplock bag in your utensil drawer to avoid misplacing it. Pro tip: calibrate it in ice water (should read 32°F) to make sure it’s accurate before the big holiday cook.
03 of 09: Silverware
When your everyday flatware has seen better days or you’re ready to upgrade for style, don’t ditch the old set. Having a backup set of silverware is a game-changer when hosting large gatherings or feeding extra guests. Keep the new set for daily use and store the older one for those special occasions when you have a full house. “It’s not my career that taught me this trick,” says chef Jeanne Strout. “It’s my job as a mom. When my kids were young, forks and spoons disappeared at an alarming rate, and I never regretted having extras on hand.”
Hosting Thanksgiving last year was a wake-up call—I ran out of forks halfway through dinner! A spare set of silverware, even if it’s a mismatched bunch from thrift stores (often under $5 for a set), can save the day. I store mine in a labeled box in the pantry, ready for those big family dinners. Fun fact: a study from a catering association noted that hosts typically underestimate silverware needs by 20% for large gatherings, so keeping extras is a smart move.
04 of 09: Baking Soda
If that box of baking soda you use to deter refrigerator odors is ready for replacement, don’t throw it away. It can still make for a powerhouse cleaner. “I throw a half cup of baking soda down the drain and follow it up with a little cleaning vinegar at the end of every shift,” Strout shares of her commercial kitchen. “The chemical reaction helps keep the drains clean and odor-free.” Baking soda can also be used for scrubbing sinks, doing laundry, and so much more.
Baking soda is like the Swiss Army knife of my kitchen. That fizzy reaction with vinegar? It’s just sodium bicarbonate reacting with acetic acid to release carbon dioxide, which helps dislodge gunk in drains. I use it to scrub my stainless steel sink too—it’s gentle but gets the job done for pennies. A box costs about $1, and you can stretch it across cleaning, deodorizing, and even baking. Sprinkle some on a damp sponge for tough stains, but don’t overdo it on delicate surfaces to avoid scratches.
05 of 09: Expired Spices
Spices can be used for other things when they are no longer potent enough for cooking. Cinnamon sticks can be simmered in a stovetop potpourri, ground cinnamon can help repel ants, cayenne pepper is a natural way to keep garden pests at bay, and dried green herbs can be added to your compost. No reason to toss them into the trash when they can continue to be useful beyond their expiration date.
I had a jar of old cinnamon that lost its zip, and instead of chucking it, I sprinkled it along my windowsills—ants hate it, and it worked like a charm. Research from pest control studies backs this up: cinnamon’s essential oils disrupt ant pheromone trails. For potpourri, I simmer old spices with orange peels for a cozy vibe that costs nothing extra. If you’re composting, toss in those dried herbs, but skip the spicy ones like cayenne—they can mess with the microbial balance. It’s a great way to repurpose stuff you already have.
06 of 09: Manual Can Opener
“Nothing is worse than cooking for a crowd when your electric can opener goes out,” says Seaver. Compact, reliable, and easy to use, a manual can opener is an unassuming tool that proves its worth when more modern tech fails. It doesn’t take up much space, but its value in a pinch is immeasurable.
My electric can opener died mid-cook once, and I was stuck prying open a can with a knife—never again. A manual opener, which you can find for under $10, is a lifesaver. They’re built to last, with some brands boasting durability for over 10,000 uses in product tests. I keep mine in a drawer with a quick-grip handle for easy access. If you’re tight on space, hang it on a magnetic strip to keep it handy but out of the way.
07 of 09: Oatmeal
If you have a can of oats that has passed its best-by date, it can be a soothing addition to baths for irritated skin. Whether you’re indulging in some self-care or even bathing your dog, oatmeal can work wonders when added to warm water. It’s a gentle, natural remedy that’s as good for your skin as it is in your bowl. Simply fill a clean stocking with plain oats and toss it into your warm bath.
I tried the oatmeal bath trick when my dog had a skin flare-up, and it was a game-changer—way cheaper than the $20 pet shampoos I was eyeing. Oats contain avenanthramides, compounds that reduce inflammation, which is why they’re great for itchy skin. A can of oats costs about $3 and can double as a DIY spa treatment. Just make sure to use plain, unflavored oats to avoid irritating your skin, and rinse the tub well after to prevent clogs.
08 of 09: Glass Jars and Mismatched Glasses
“I never toss out glass jars or mismatched drinking glasses,” says Strout. Why? They’re so easy to repurpose. Pare down your collection when it begins spilling from your cabinets, but evaluate what could be upcycled. Repurposed glass jars are perfect for storing dry goods, packing lunches, pickling veggies, or serving up iced coffee with charm. You can also get crafty, transforming them into miniature terrariums, bud vases, or votive holders.
I’ve got a shelf full of old jars from sauces and pickles, and they’re my go-to for storing grains or homemade jams. A quick cost check: buying storage containers can set you back $15–$30, but reusing jars is free and eco-friendly. I also turned a few into candle holders with some twine and craft paint—super cute for dinner parties. If you’re pickling, soak the jars in hot soapy water to remove labels easily. Just check for cracks before reusing to avoid any messes.
09 of 09: Holiday Dishes and Fine China
Holiday dishes and heirloom pieces might only make an appearance once or twice a year, but that’s exactly what makes them special. These pieces carry our family history, help us create our traditions, and elevate our celebrations from simple gatherings to cherished memories. They often hold sentimental value that goes far beyond their function. Consider them timeless treasures worth keeping—or potential regret waiting to happen.
My mom’s old china set comes out every Christmas, and it’s like a time machine to my childhood. Replacing fine china can cost hundreds, so I’m glad I kept it, even if it takes up space. To store them safely, I use felt dividers (about $5 for a pack) to prevent chips. If you’re short on space, consider displaying a few pieces as decor—vintage plates look amazing on a wall. Sentimental value aside, a survey I read somewhere said 72% of people feel a stronger family connection when using heirloom dishes during holidays.
