My"Donate Later" Box

Let’s be honest—letting go of things can be hard.

Sometimes, it's because we’re overly attached to stuff, but othertimes, it can simply be because behind each item, there’s often a story.

A memory.

A little voice that whispers, “But what if I need it again?” or worse, “You spent good money on that.”

That’s where my Donate Later Box comes in. And let me tell you—it’s been a game changer for me.

What is a donate later box?

It’s exactly what it sounds like:

A simple box where I place items I think I’m ready to part with—but still feel unsure about.

Instead of forcing a decision, I let the item rest out of sight for a month (sometimes longer).

I don’t label it trash. I don’t drive it to the thrift store.

I just… pause.

And in that pause, I 'pretend' to live without those items.

✨ Why This Works

This method gives me space to test out life without the item—without the guilt, the fear, or the pressure to decide right now.

Most of the time, I forget the item was ever gone and when the month is up, I feel free to release it—no second-guessing.

For those few items I do go back for? I’m reminded that it’s okay to keep what still serves me with purpose.

It’s not about forcing minimalism.

It’s about living with intention and clarity.

This trick may be especially helpful for…

• Clothing you “might” wear again someday

• Gifts you feel guilty giving away

• Decor you’ve outgrown, but feel weird letting go of

• Duplicates or “just in case” items that linger

• Anything you keep because of cost, not usefulness

This isn’t just about decluttering your home—it’s about clearing emotional clutter too. By giving yourself time before you donate something, you can remove the stress associated with minimalism and focus on how you feel without those items in your day-to-day life. 

Just remember to go through the box at the end of a month (or two)—and then, fill it up again with more things you want to consider getting rid of!

Ready to start your own "donate later" box?

1. Grab a box or bin. Nothing fancy.

Label it if you want to—but I usually just tuck mine away in the closet or garage.

2. Choose 5–10 items you’re unsure about.

Clothing, mugs, old toys, books, whatever’s causing you friction.

3. Hide the box for a month.

Out of sight = out of emotional reach. Let yourself live without it.

4. Set a reminder to revisit.

When the month’s up, reflect: Did I miss this? Did life feel lighter without it?

5. Donate what no longer serves.

And release the guilt while you’re at it.

Pick one area in your home—maybe your closet, a kitchen drawer, or your nightstand. Tuck away just a few items into your own Donate Later Box.

Give yourself permission to pause.

Notice what you don’t miss.

Let go when you’re ready.

Simplicity doesn’t have to be extreme. Sometimes it starts with just one box.

Just remember: you don’t have to be ruthless to make space.

You just have to be willing to ask: “Is this adding peace to my life—or taking it away?”

The Donate Later Box lets you explore that question—without urgency, shame, or pressure.

And in a world that’s always rushing, that kind of pause might just be the most powerful step you take.

Keep it simple,

-Ashley 💛

Want more simplicity in your life?