There’s something about spring that makes clutter feel more unbearable than usual. Maybe it’s the sunshine exposing dusty corners or the fresh air reminding you that your home should feel lighter, too. Whatever the reason, spring is the perfect time to let go of things you no longer need – and not just to make room, but to reset your space and your mindset.

Still, figuring out what to toss can be harder than it sounds. Old T-shirts with memories attached, mystery cords “just in case,” or kitchen gadgets you swore you’d use –  they all pile up fast. In this guide, a reputable Hicksville house cleaning company cuts through the emotional clutter and gives you real and practical tips for deciding what stays and what goes.

1. Clothes You Haven’t Worn in Over a Year

If it’s been through all four seasons and still hasn’t left the hanger, it’s probably time to say goodbye. Be honest with yourself about what actually fits, what you feel good wearing, and what’s just taking up closet space. That shirt you were going to “slim back into” or that sweater with a snag you keep ignoring — they’re just holding you back from having a functional wardrobe.

Go one step further by turning your hangers backward. If you wear an item, flip the hanger the right way. After a month or two, anything still untouched is fair game for the donation pile.

2. Expired or Unused Beauty and Personal Care Products

That collection of half-used shampoo bottles and old lipsticks? It’s time. Beauty products have expiration dates for a reason – they can harbor bacteria or lose effectiveness over time. Sunscreens, in particular, stop working properly past their date and could leave you unprotected.

Create more counter and drawer space by ditching anything you haven’t used in months. If you feel guilty about wasting money, make a note of the items you consistently don’t use to avoid buying them again.

3. Paper Clutter That’s Just Collecting Dust

Stacks of unopened mail, old receipts, manuals for appliances you no longer own — this kind of clutter adds up without you even realizing it. Most of it can be tossed, recycled, or scanned digitally if you want to keep a record. Important documents (like tax info, medical records, or home ownership papers) should be filed away properly.

Set a timer for 20 minutes, grab a trash bag and a shredder, and go to town on those paper piles. You’ll feel lighter immediately.

4. Outdated Tech and Random Cables

We all have that drawer. You know the one — full of tangled cords, dead batteries, and chargers from phones you haven’t used in years. Unless you can identify and use the item right now, let it go. Recycle electronics properly (most local electronics stores will take them), and keep only the essentials that match current devices.

Label the cables you keep with washi tape or tags so you never wonder what that one charger belongs to again.

5. Kitchen Gadgets You Never Use

The avocado slicer, the juicer you used twice, the chipped coffee mugs — if your kitchen feels cramped, these are usually the culprits. Be honest about how often you cook or entertain. Chances are, there are items hiding in drawers that haven’t seen daylight in months or years.

Donate duplicates and novelty gadgets. Stick to tools you use regularly, and your kitchen will become far more functional (and easier to clean).

6. Toys, Books, and Games No One Touches

If you have kids, toys seem to multiply on their own. And even if you don’t, books and board games often collect more dust than memories. Keep what’s loved and used, and rehome the rest. Libraries, shelters, and donation centers are great places to give these items a second life.

Make it a family activity — have everyone choose a few things they’re ready to part with, and talk about how these items might make someone else happy.

7. Things You’re Only Keeping Out of Guilt

That gift you never liked, the decor item that doesn’t match your taste, the hobby equipment you spent money on but never used — guilt keeps a lot of clutter alive. But holding onto something just because you should doesn’t serve your home or your mental clarity.

Release yourself from that pressure. Let those things go and remember: your space should reflect who you are now, not who you were or who someone else wanted you to be.

8. The “Maybe Later” Pile

Boxes of stuff you set aside “just in case”? They usually become permanent clutter. Create a firm deadline — if you haven’t used it by that date, out it goes. This applies to mystery keys, single socks, duplicate tools, and things you swore you were going to repurpose “someday.”

You don’t need to wait for the perfect use. If you haven’t found one yet, it probably isn’t coming –  and that’s okay.

White and grey will always have their place, but if you’re ready to break away from the safe and expected, color can completely transform your Kitchen personality. Lately, bold and unexpected color pairings are showing up in some of the most stylish homes, bringing life, warmth, and a distinct point of view to the heart of the house. These aren’t your average Pinterest-perfect palettes – they’re rich, layered, and surprisingly cohesive when done right.

Whether you’re into deep moody hues, earthy tones, or playful brights, mixing colors thoughtfully can help your kitchen stand out in all the right ways. In this article, professionals offering a variety of home design and build services in IL explore color combos you might not expect to work, but absolutely do. Let’s take a look at how to use them to create a space that feels bold, balanced, and uniquely yours.

Olive Green + Blush Pink

At first glance, olive and blush might sound like an odd couple. However, this pairing strikes a beautiful balance between earthy and soft. Olive green brings in a grounded, natural vibe, while blush adds a touch of warmth and charm. Together, they feel cozy and fresh, with just enough contrast to make things interesting without being overwhelming.

This combo works especially well when one of the colors is used as a backdrop, like olive cabinetry, with the other used as an accent. Think blush tile backsplashes, light fixtures, or even barstools. The beauty of this palette lies in its versatility: it can feel rustic, modern, or even slightly vintage depending on how you accessorize the space.

Navy Blue + Warm Wood Tones

Navy and wood might not be the flashiest combo, but it’s unexpectedly rich and full of depth. Navy brings sophistication and calm, while warm woods like walnut or honey-toned oak, add warmth and texture. This pairing is great for those who want a dramatic yet timeless feel in their kitchen.

You can go big with navy lower cabinets and wood upper shelving, or keep things simple with a navy island surrounded by wood floors and neutral counters. Brass or matte black hardware pairs beautifully with both, tying everything together with a hint of polish. It’s a subtle way to mix cool and warm tones without veering into overly trendy territory.

Terracotta + Charcoal Gray

Terracotta is having a design moment, and when paired with a deep charcoal, the result is both unexpected and elegant. The warmth of terracotta brings a Mediterranean or southwestern flair, while charcoal gray keeps things grounded and modern. It’s a high-contrast pairing that still feels organic and rooted in nature.

Mustard Yellow + Deep Teal

If you’re drawn to bold, saturated colors, mustard and deep teal might be your dream duo. This pairing is vibrant without being chaotic—mustard adds energy and vintage flair, while teal anchors the palette with a rich, moody tone. Together, they create a dynamic and playful space that still feels elevated.

Try mustard on accent walls or appliances, while keeping teal to cabinetry or lower walls. White quartz or marble countertops can help break things up and keep the space from feeling too heavy. This combo works especially well in mid-century modern or eclectic kitchens where personality is front and center.

Black + Sage Green

For those who want drama with a touch of calm, black and sage green offer a stunning and sophisticated mix. Black adds boldness and contrast, while sage introduces a light, natural tone that softens the overall look. It’s a pairing that works beautifully in both modern and transitional designs.

The heart of the home is constantly evolving, and 2025 is bringing exciting shifts in kitchen design. Homeowners are prioritizing functionality, sustainability, and personalization more than ever, blending aesthetics with smart solutions that enhance daily life. While some trends continue to gain momentum, others are fading as homeowners seek timeless appeal and modern efficiency.

If you’re planning a kitchen remodel, knowing what’s in and what’s out can help you see what our designers can do for you. Let’s take a look at the kitchen trends defining 2025.

What’s In for Kitchen Design in 2025?

In 2025, kitchen remodeling trends are shifting toward a balance of innovation, sustainability, and personalization. Here’s what’s making waves in kitchen design this year.

1. Personalized and Bespoke Kitchens

Cookie-cutter kitchen designs are being replaced with highly personalized spaces tailored to individual needs. Homeowners are opting for built-in coffee stations, hidden pantries, and multi-functional islands that serve as prep, dining, and entertainment hubs. Customized cabinetry with specialized storage solutions—like pull-out spice racks, deep drawers for pots and pans, and integrated charging stations—are becoming must-haves. Personalization also extends to finishes, with homeowners choosing unique hardware, custom wood stains, and statement lighting to create a one-of-a-kind kitchen experience.

2. Warm, Natural Materials

The sterile, all-white culinary space is giving way to richer, more organic tones and textures. Homeowners are embracing natural materials such as warm-toned woods, travertine countertops, and textured stone backsplashes to add depth and character. Walnut cabinetry, butcher block islands, and handmade ceramic tiles are gaining popularity, offering a timeless aesthetic that feels inviting and sophisticated. The goal is to create a cozy, lived-in atmosphere that still feels refined, making cooking areas feel more connected to nature and daily life.

3. Smart Kitchens with Seamless Technology

Technology is being seamlessly integrated into interior design, making everyday tasks more convenient and efficient. Smart appliances, such as refrigerators with inventory tracking, voice-activated ovens, and touchless faucets, are becoming standard in modern spaces. Homeowners are also embracing under-cabinet lighting that adjusts based on the time of day, motion-sensor drawers, and AI-powered cooking assistants. These innovations enhance both functionality and aesthetics, ensuring a streamlined, high-tech kitchen experience without overwhelming the space with visible gadgets.

4. Mixed Cabinet Colors and Finishes

Rather than uniform cabinetry, 2025 is all about mixing tones and textures for a more dynamic and visually interesting kitchen. Two-toned cabinetry—such as deep green lower cabinets paired with warm wood uppers—is a popular choice, as is the use of different materials for islands versus perimeter cabinets. Matte and gloss contrasts, reeded wood paneling, and fluted glass cabinet doors are also making a statement. This mix-and-match approach creates a layered, custom feel that makes the kitchen more unique and tailored to individual tastes.

5. Statement Backsplashes

Backsplashes are no longer just a functional element; they’re becoming a focal point of kitchen design. Homeowners are opting for large-format slabs of marble, intricate mosaic designs, and textured tiles that add character and depth. Some are even extending their backsplash materials up to the ceiling for a seamless, dramatic effect. Earthy-toned tiles, natural stone, and geometric patterns are also on the rise, replacing traditional subway tiles with something more bold and expressive.

6. Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Features

Sustainability is at the forefront of home remodeling this year, with homeowners prioritizing eco-conscious materials and energy-efficient solutions. Reclaimed wood cabinetry, bamboo flooring, and recycled glass countertops are becoming more common as people look for ways to reduce their environmental impact. Induction cooktops, which are more energy-efficient than gas stoves, are gaining traction, along with water-saving faucets and smart lighting systems. Even cabinetry is being designed with sustainability in mind, with manufacturers offering non-toxic, low-VOC finishes and responsibly sourced materials.

7. Open Shelving with a Purpose

Open shelving is evolving beyond a purely decorative feature to become a practical storage solution. Instead of displaying just decorative dishware, homeowners are using open shelves for easy access to everyday items like bowls, glasses, and cookware. Floating wood shelves, built-in spice racks, and recessed niches are popular additions that make the kitchen feel open while keeping it functional. The key is striking a balance between aesthetics and usability – organizing shelves in a way that looks intentional while also serving a purpose in daily kitchen routines.