Minimalism is a lifestyle that emphasizes living with less and focusing on what truly matters. As a minimalist, I’ve learned to let go of unnecessary possessions and consumerism in favor of a simpler, more intentional way of living. In this article, I’ll share the top 10 things I don’t buy as a minimalist. From trendy clothing to impulse purchases and excess home decor, these are the items that I’ve learned to live without. By eliminating these things from my life, I’ve been able to reduce clutter, save money, and focus on the things that truly matter to me. So, let’s dive in and discover the items that I’ve cut from my shopping list as a minimalist.
Contents
- 1 Specialized Kitchen Tools
- 2 One-Trick Cleaning Supplies
- 3 Individually Wrapped Snack Packs
- 4 Pre-Made Canned Soups
- 5 Excessive Condiments
- 6 Disposable Paper Goods
- 7 Single-Purpose Beverages
- 8 Novelty Flavored Teas and Coffees
- 9 Trendy Health Food Ingredients
- 10 Plastic Storage Containers
- 11 More from AisleOfShame
Specialized Kitchen Tools
The allure of single-use kitchen gadgets is often hard to resist, but as a minimalist, I found them unnecessary. A trusty chef’s knife has replaced items like strawberry hullers or avocado slicers, simplifying my kitchen routine and reducing clutter.
One-Trick Cleaning Supplies
My cleaning closet has seen a transformation by eliminating the multitude of specific cleaning products. A few staples like vinegar, baking soda, and castile soap now take precedence, offering a multipurpose solution to nearly every household cleaning dilemma.
Individually Wrapped Snack Packs
Eco-conscious and wallet-friendly choices led me to bid farewell to individually wrapped snack packs. Bulk purchases portioned into reusable containers now serve the dual purpose of reducing waste and adhering to minimalist living standards.
Pre-Made Canned Soups
Canned soups were convenient but didn’t align with the minimalist ethos of health and simplicity. Now, I make soups in large quantities, controlling the ingredients for a healthier option and embracing the practice of meal prepping.
Excessive Condiments
Initially, my fridge’s side door was crammed with an array of condiments. Over time, I realized many were rarely used or only for one specific recipe. I’ve since pared down to versatile staples like mustard, olive oil, and soy sauce, which can be used in various dishes, promoting both minimalism and less waste.
Disposable Paper Goods
The regular purchase of paper towels and napkins once seemed indispensable, but I’ve discovered the efficiency of cloth alternatives. Reusable cloth napkins and towels are not only environmentally friendly but also embody the minimalist principle of using what you have more effectively.
Single-Purpose Beverages
From soda to flavored water, my fridge once overflowed with beverage options. Shifting to a minimalist mindset, I now stick to a simple hydration solution: tap water, occasionally spruced up with a slice of lemon or cucumber for flavor, thus decluttering the space and reducing plastic bottle use.
Novelty Flavored Teas and Coffees
What was once a collection of every tea and coffee flavor imaginable has been streamlined to the essentials. This has not only freed up pantry space but also made my morning routine quicker and more enjoyable, focusing on the quality of a few select favorites.
Trendy Health Food Ingredients
Trend-driven superfoods and health ingredients often led to clutter and wasted products as their popularity waned. A commitment to basic, nutrient-rich foods like oats, beans, and seasonal produce has simplified shopping lists and ensured that nothing languishes unused in the back of my pantry.
Plastic Storage Containers
The plethora of mismatched plastic storage containers has given way to a uniform set of glass containers. This choice reflects the minimalist ideal of choosing quality over quantity and has also benefited my health by reducing the use of plastics.
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