20 THINGS I'M NOT BUYING for our New Home | minimalism + saving money

[@AtoZenLife]

What do you consider "essential" in your own home? Drop me a comment below and here's the empty home tour in case you missed it: kzbin.info/www/bejne/fIbGpX2aZrSGgqcsi=2nUmp3wMbvQDaQ9X

[@shaynaangers5691]

I used to hoard clothes but now im hoarding plants and now i have to learn to sell them

[@radarwas]

Curtains. They really bring a room together and there are lots of options available now that are easy to clean.

[@lydiagoularte8973]

A space to sew and store my sewing essentials.

[@KCallaAK]

@@radarwas I agree! Our small, new "casita" is painted white and the kitchen is all white. We have 10' ceilings, 2 beautiful windows and a french door in our main living area. My daughter bought/hung dark brown panels with sheers for privacy and they add so much! They also can be closed to hold back the afternoon heat. And they can be washed! Not a fan of blinds of any type.

[@Smithjones12]

My essentials are simple cleaning materials a washing machine and a bed and of course a phone.

[@rsnj4501]

I agree with all your items except table lamps. Overhead lights can be so harsh and lamps provide a warm cozy atmosphere ❤

[@poodlegirl55]

Spot on! No way could I read or sew with an overhead light. There is a reason they did not put overhead lights in living rooms and bedrooms.

[@Christine-zk6hk]

Agree. I'm a knitter/crocheter and, at my age, I need a good quality light. I have an Ott light next to my chair that I use whenever I'm knitting, even during the day. Also, there is no overhead lights in my living room and, at this point, don't want to spend the money to put something in. So I have floor lamps.

[@poodlegirl55]

@@Christine-zk6hk Yes, I have Ott lights in three rooms. She will find out when she gets older. They are adjustable and shine on your book or work, not in your eyes.

[@amerriefaerie]

wall sconces and table lamps are a nice alternative to overhead lighting and add a lot of ambiance ❤

[@thehometownhomestead]

Same. I love lamps. ❤

[@marsy427]

Only thing about this list that makes me sad is lamps 🥺 I consider myself a minimalist (not to the same degree) but lamps make me feel so cozy. I’m autistic and the big ceiling light up in my face drives me crazy. Lamps are functional too and such an easy way to incorporate “art” and unique features into a home. To each their own though!

[@dianasimplifies]

I don't like overhead lights that much either. In our family room we put the lamps on the wall instead of needing tables to put them on or having floor lamps

[@nora-.-g]

Same, ADHDer here! Soft warm lamp light is so soothing. To each their own is right - minimalism or simplicity looks different for everyone.

[@nc8770]

Yes, i agree! Much prefer ambience of a cozy lamp to non-cozy overhead lighting

[@asavannah7439]

I completely agree. Little lamps add constant coziness. I have a very tidy decluttered house, but I love colored walls, little lamps, books and things on my walls

[@buckeyedav1]

I have a very old home with only 2 rooms having a overhead light.. I like floor lamps with a pull string versus table lamps. On Clocks, I love wall clocks and have them in 2 rooms they are battery operated so they are fairly quiet and don't use electricity. On timers I use my stove top timer for everything. Candles I love soy candles scented I use to be a candle maker but you can also just make soy candles with no scent or even better buy beeswax candles, they can be pricey I just bought 2 stick candles $7 which the store said was pretty cheap compared to others but I bought them from someone who raises bees so it helped a local farmer I'm good with what I bought. We have outages here in our area at least a couple times a year so I keep candles for that as well as oil lamps. Good points though I am a work in progress of decluttering after living in the same house for 30 years and my husband passing away there are so many things that are just no longer needed or being used. I am looking at the hangers mentioned because yes I have those awful plastic hangers and it's annoying when things fall off and in to the floor and they do take up a lot of space in my tiny closet. Anna In Ohio

[@reneeschwartz6555]

From the point of view of a teacher, I have noticed that it's very difficult for children to learn to read a clock with hands if they don't have one in their environment. So I always advise the parents of my students to eliminate all digital clocks and replace them with a wall clock with hands (especially in the child's bedroom). Giving your child a wristwatch with hands helps too!

[@pippas5808]

Yes. I had terrible trouble learning to tell the time as a child, and I was desperate for a digital watch so that I could 'tell the time', but my parents realised I was just reading the numbers with no understanding of what they meant. So we only had clocks and watches with hands in our house! I was around 10 by the time I managed to learn, but I'm pretty sure I would NEVER have done so if I'd had a digital clock to look at!

[@randomharts]

An analog watch could be a good idea, too! Judging by the boys and the Christmas video footage, I think they’ve already got them. Good point though☺️

[@asavannah7439]

I have a colleague in her late Twenties, who didn't know how to read a clock face 😮 I taught her🎉

[@mangayakposowa4334]

Because we have digital clocks, ppl don’t need to learn to read analog clocks. Think about all the things we don’t know because they’re outdated. Ppl use analog clocks more for decoration

[@pippas5808]

@@mangayakposowa4334 The problem with digital clocks is that it is much easier for a child who knows numbers but who does not understand time to hide their ignorance. If someone asked me the time when I was struggling to learn the time, I could easily have told them "10.45" or "12.33" just by reading numbers off a digital clock. But I would have had no real concept of time and no idea of how many minutes it would take to get from 10.45 to 12.33 - they were just 'numbers'. I still find that I am more likely to make mistakes with a digital clock than an analogue one, because the analogue one shows me the 'space' that the hands have to cross to get to the time I need to leave/be ready. With a digital clock, I can look at "10.48" and think I have loads of time left before 11am, but if I look at an analogue clock, I can see that the hands are very close to 11, and I'm much more likely to leave on time!

[@kims914]

I think you can still be a minimalist but have a nightstand, lamps and tissue boxes. I don’t want to be so minimalist that my house isn’t cozy. Cozy is super important to me. A nice neat cozy home.

[@sidney2900]

Agreed!!

[@JudiL-f4v]

I know what you mean. I consider myself to be a “cozy minimalist.” 😊

[@Sheila2024-x8w]

Absolutely. A night stand is a must have.

[@WomanRoaring]

Minimalist doesn't mean not having things, it just means not having excess things that aren't necessary. For her those things aren't necessary but for you (and most of us😂) they are. I'm not a minimalist but I do try to not get swept up in overconsumption and watching her helps remind me I don't need all the crap I just saw on the other video about Amazons best bullshit from an influencer that I follow 😂.

[@quoththeraven13]

The scam thing is so true - I had to unfollow a bunch of KZbinrs I liked because they keep buying stuff to promote (then decluttering it + repeating 😢).

[@AtoZenLife]

😢

[@peachesandpoets]

I know it's serious but that's so ridiculous that it's funny

[@quoththeraven13]

@@peachesandpoets How so?

[@poodlegirl55]

I also unfollowed one who gave tips on keeping up a routine to keep your house organized, but hers was always a mess. Did her tips not actually work or was she deliberately allowing messes for clicks?

[@radarwas]

One of my no-longer-watched people is a very well known KZbinr saying, "Here is what I do to keep my house clean!" and then it slip in a casual conversation (with her sister, I think) that she had a hired housekeeper. The constantly decluttering her (honestly very few) kids toys with their begrudging permission was also a big turn-off.

[@leeway3739]

I have to disagree with you on the tissue boxes. For someone who suffers from year round allergies having tissues handy is a must, and I specifically only buy the lotion tissues so my nose doesn't get red and sore. I physically cringed when you mentioned using toilet paper instead. My nose hurts just thinking about it lol! Obviously you don't have allergies like this so you don't need tissues in your home, but for me it is a MUST!

[@susiebolt4021]

Same. And I always hated visiting friends who directed me to use toilet paper, especially if they had cats. Even if you don't use a tissues, have a box on hand for guests with allergies.

[@klmjtr]

I don’t have allergies but I can’t live without my tissues in every room! I use them so much!

[@cait.]

I used toilet paper for years without being bothered by it, and then one day used a real tissue and never went back to TP bc it was such a better experience 😂 I also have a tissue box cover but it’s bc it makes it look more minimal 😅

[@16demolka]

For me TP is much gentler for my skin that tissues.I have a huge cold right now and have a roll by my side :)

[@sgallant2107]

The wood pulp used in facial tissues is more finely-milled. That red nose you get with a cold is made worse by frequent blowing - gradually accumulating coarse wood splinters in the delicate skin of this area. Ouch! (Also, apply lip balm to protect this skin.) My ex-husband had allergies, so we kept facial tissues on hand. Eventually, we had them in every room. I still do, and probably always will. The trick is to make them blend unobtrusively into the background (choose calm-looking packaging - not dust-catching covers). A small price for a big convenience!

[@donnabeach1250]

I think there is a fine line between minimalist living and living in a cold, stark environment. Rugs, side tables, plants all ad warmth and coziness to a comfortable relaxing room.

[@sidney2900]

So true

[@divyamishra9481]

Rugs cause allergies, sinusitis etc in so many people, I have seen so many people whose immunity improved many folds after removing all rugs & carpeting from their homes

I have plants in bedrooms and living room, the green colors bring warmth to neutral walls in all rooms and muted upholstery in living room.

[@cynthiacrumlish4683]

Having different types of lighting is essential in my house. Recessed ceiling lights alone are just too stark. Great lighting lends so much atmosphere and reduces the need for other stuff.

[@aquarius2]

Recessed ceiling lights never look good.

[@deborahpetipas9365]

I totally get your points for YOUR season of life. Im in agreement with you on most all of your tips. As an older person. Throw blankets and throw pillows become essentials if you are saving money. Throw blankets keep you warm without changing the thermostat. Pillows. I'm short, and I use decorative pillow behind my back or as an arm rest while on my sofa. I think essentials change with your age and needs. ❤

[@xindirella3294]

Thank you! Minimalism is about not buying things! Many people think it is about getting rid of things again and again and again

[@onimendez7735]

Loove empty spaces in my home. I can't stand cluttered spaces. It actually affects my inner serenity.

[@HotTeaAddict]

Dunno where your new home is but I strongly recommend (as an enthusiastic brown thumbed gardener) to get native plants to your region. They are much harder to kill and beneficial to local wildlife

[@mom2artists]

Oh my goodness... I was a die-hard "no more gadget cook items" but finally broke down and got an air fryer. I use it every day!!!! It is amazing. :)

[@melinab.ny1]

I use a wooden rice paddle, instead of a plastic one. You can get it at most local asian supermarkets

[@diana1302]

They have them at IKEA

[@poodlegirl55]

Great video. One thing I would like to add is if you go on a spending spree after your purchase offer goes through you could jeopardize the sale. I was selling a rental home I owned to a nice young couple. They sold their little condo to a single girl. The girl went out and charged furniture for her place and the bank cancelled her loan before closing which led to a chain of events that the couple couldn't buy my house and I sold it to the next person in line. The bank will run your credit report AGAIN before closing so don't do anything stupid, you do not actually have a mortgage until closing.

[@totalyodel]

This is so important! Those big furniture stores promise it won't even show on your credit but I did mortgages for 6 years and this is one of the fastest ways to put your loan application in jeopardy. Lenders have something called undisclosed debt monitoring that they do to catch stuff like this, and it can also include huge increases on cards you already have. So it's not just new accounts that can affect it. It's anything that can change your debt-to-income ratio to make your loan no longer approvable. If you absolutely have to get a new account or have a large charge coming up, always ask your lender beforehand so they can make sure you will still qualify for the loan with the new debt. Also, if you just bought something large on credit (like a new car) in the last month or two right before applying for a mortgage, make sure it's reported on your credit when they pull your report. You don't want that to be a surprise later in the process when it finally reports.

[@gabriellaraziah]

3:39 in feng shui, they say fake plants and flowers can attract “fake” relationships too. it’s a win win to have real plants! also i think it’s a jade plant! my aunt has them and they’re SO pretty and very easy to propagate for an easy gift :)

[@Auden73]

I think that's just silly. I dont want to take care of real plants and I like my fake plants. To each his own. There's lots of "fake" plants that look just as real as the real ones. You just need to know how to pick them.

[@gabriellaraziah]

@@Auden73 I believe when it comes to things like spirituality, religion, feng shui, tarot, tea leaf fortune telling, astrology, spirits on the other side, talisman, etc… If it applies to your beliefs, it is true and works 100%. But if you don’t believe it, the energy can’t affect you. So hey, if you have fake plants and relationships full of love or even if they aren’t filled with love? 1.) I hope you can find deep, meaningful, loving connections because everyone deserves that! But 2.) who cares haha! Live your life in a way that makes sense to you! 🤍

[@vhs10907]

Yes! It is a jade plant. They are beautiful and easy to care for.

[@nicoleh3703]

Ironically, while I was watching this, I was crocheting a blanket and staring at the one I made for the foot of my bed. I'm one who always has cold feet, so I made myself a tiny blanket that's just the size of a double bed and about 3 ft wide. In my defence, the blanket I'm making is actually a form of decluttering. I take all of my scrap yarn from finished projects, tie them together, and make blankets to donate to charity.

[@goddessmel8518]

My two favourite throw blankets were both knitted by my mum - one is a black, white and grey that gets used in the spare bedroom (where she stays when she visits) and the lime and purple one (classier than it sounds!) is on my reading/napping chair in the lounge room to keep me cosy instead of turning on/up the heating when I'm home alone.

[@MarySamios]

Toilet paper is designed to disolve, whereas tissue paper is designed to hold together. While I am not opposed to using TP when that's all that's available, I do keep a box of tissues in each bathroom. And yes, I even use covers (faux leather; easy to wipe down when necessary) for them because tissue boxes come in some amazingly garish colors and prints! While hankies have their place, facial tissue is actually more sanitary for blowing one's nose (we are an allergy family...and yes, we use antihistamines, but I am allergic to dust, dogs, and cats...and we have a dog...and dust is a constant battle). If you are ill, disposable facial tissue truly is the better option than hankies, and as previously mentioned, they are designed to hold what your nose blows out -- toilet paper can't always do that. And yes, I know from experience. ;~) And that is my TED-Talk on the use of facial tissues. Naturally, your mileage may vary.

[@AtoZenLife]

Thank you for your TED talk today 👍

[@lissobczak7191]

Don't use tissues as toilet paper, or flush tissues, for the same reason: TP Is designed to dissolve in water, while tissues are not. Simple tissues can clog the plumbing!

[@MarySamios]

@@lissobczak7191 Exactly!

[@REC_CER]

@MarySamios I feel you. Queen of allergies here. 😂 I don't use covers since the kleenex boxes in my country are prettified.

[@jml238]

Put the recessed lights on a dimmer switch! Such a great investment.

[@michellelafontaine9556]

"The bug is a paid actor" - lol!

[@altheaelainejaug8497]

"Every single day is a special occasion." I love this philosophy. ❤❤❤

[@susanedmondson1623]

I have a cuisinart ice cream maker and use it several times per week because store bought ice cream is full of high fructose corn syrup and seed oils. But if I ever stopped using it, I'd donate it. That's the key. Use it or lose it.

[@marias8007]

Being alive is enough of a special occasion ❤❤❤

[@lindahaines9299]

Velvet hangers break even easier than plastic. I switched to IKEA wood ones… love them.

[@jennlynxx]

Hi Marissa! Just a tip to help with plants. I personally love filling a tub full of water and just letting my plants chill in there to drink water. I usually take them out in 10-20 minutes. I do it about once a week in the summer! Best of luck. (Mom of 15 plants and growing)

[@LacyDawnS]

Love all this!! Not to sound negative but cooking rice on the stove is as easy as making Mac n cheese or boiling potatoes. You don't need a whole rice cooker just to make rice. Hey, one less kitchen gadget! Xoxo

[@HR-re6mr]

I’m not minimalist in the sense of not having things. Moreso just not having clutter. I find it interesting to see how others live. Congratulations on your new house!

[@olderandwiser78]

That is a green jade plant. It is a succulent so you should not over water. Water it only when the soil is completely dry and the soil should have good drainage. It does best in bright sunlight with a south or west facing window. They like it warm in the day and cool at night, like the desert. You can keep it outside in the summer. Most people kill their plants by over watering them. Also pests to watch out for are mealy bugs, aphids, scale and spider mites. We purchased our first and only home in 1971. I always loved my grandparents furniture so we were given everything when they passed and we didn't need to buy anything. I got their living room, dining room, and 2 bedrooms of furniture plus one bedroom set that was my parents that they purchased in 1942. Prior to purchasing our home we lived in furnished apartments. I did purchase a sofa and two recliners for the family room, TV, TV stand, and computer desk. The 4th bedroom just has a mattress on a frame, a desk from my grandparents, and a chest of drawers that my parents bought for me as a baby. In my kitchen I use the pots and pans that belonged to my grandmother. They are old Revereware that she purchased in the 1930s or 1940s. I have the mixing bowls that were a wedding gift and I cook everyday in old Griswold cast iron skillets and Dutch oven that were made in the 1920s. My silverware was purchased in the 1970s and some of the plates I use belonged to my parents. For years I used a set that belonged to my grandparents. I still use my grandparents glassware and some I purchased decades ago. Outside of a couple of area rugs, a few lamps, and some mattresses and bedding the money I have spent over the last 50 years to furnish my home has been practically nothing. I do have to have strong light to be able to read so lamps are essential. It really bothers me to be in a home with poor lighting. The ceiling lights are just not enough for me.

[@blujeans9462]

I'm moving into a new place too so this was excellent advice. Now, I'm not into minimalist living - to me, way too cold and sterile. But I love the clean, tidy look so I do have to be careful how much stuff I have. I was happy to hear many of your suggestions since I've been thinking the same thing. About the only thing I won't be able to embrace is lack of furniture. Need those end tables - but also one of the first things that I did when going from my home of 40 years was deciding which furniture had to go. I love my antique, quality furniture and the thought of tossing them in the dumpster or giving them away - when I still enjoyed and used them, just wasn't happening. So I spent hours with floor plans in exact scale to see what I could keep. I was elated when all of my favorite pieces had space!

[@alisonryckman7711]

You touched a nerve with the glassware! This is exactly the discussion I had with my husband yesterday. We have too much, and we don’t even drink the cocktails that the glasses are supposed to be used for, nor do we even have the ingredients should the mood strike! I want them gone, but hubby likes to have them. I have to park this one aside for now and just concentrate on decluttering battles I can win! On a happy note, upon inspection, I discovered that three of the fancy beer glasses had chips in them. So of course, they have to go! Congratulations on your beautiful new home. I love that sunroom overlooking the garden. The first thing I would put in there is my yoga mat!

[@AtoZenLife]

I understand the struggle - they are so cute! I agree, pick your battles and focus on other key areas…who knows, maybe husband will come around later. 🙌

[@MyFocusVaries]

Maybe you could convince him to store them in the garage/basement etc "until you next need them." Put them in a box with the label "glasses" and the date. Studies show that items lose their emotional value when they're stored out of sight. Then in a year or two, say, "You know that box of glasses we haven't used for a couple of years? How about we donate them?" (The key is not to open the box or let him touch them. Touching them can restore the emotional connection.)

[@veexisxme]

Hang in there! Good idea to move on to where you agree or he doesn't have an opinion. I still can't get my partner to let go of paper plates and napkins, and I may never win that one. You're in good company :)

[@denisebunker6674]

Less is best. The best thing we did is keep flat surface empty and lots of empty space thought the house. So peaceful.

[@Smithjones12]

The less you have, the less your insurance costs and less stressing over stuff and housework.

[@KarenLeonard-fg8ru]

I’m working on keeping no decor on kitchen countertops and nothing on my kitchen island

[@simplycece]

Bamboo rice paddles! They sell them at my local world market, but I’m sure the internet has them. I’d avoid steel because of heat transfer and/or scraping the pot.

[@kimberlylopez3230]

Yes!! I’ve had mine for years. I grew up with rice as a staple food and just started using a rice cooker in the past 10 years but never used the plastic spoon, I kept the habit of using my bamboo paddle 😅

[@strangertobluewater]

Unrelated: I really love your hair and the neutral colors on you. You have found the right path for yourself and it shows.

[@AtoZenLife]

Aw, thank you so much! :)

[@kimbitner]

We are moving into a new house next week and the temptation to buy all the things and fix all the problems immediately is strong. Thanks for the reminder to take it slow and know what my priorities are!

[@elisebrown5157]

Hi Marissa, you have yourself a lovely Jade plant there. My grandmother had one for decades - they're pretty easy to care for. And I'm so jealous of your new house - maybe more jealous of the just "starting with a blank slate" idea, though that natural light and your sunroom are to die for! I hope your family makes many many happy memories there and you can put down some deep, solid roots.

[@lucywood5545]

Totally agree on the disposable plates and cups etc I keep our tissue boxes in drawers, or if someone has a cold they appear out in the open and go back into drawers when the cold is over

[@IamSnowbird]

I do have tissue boxes because of bad allergies. Only the one in the living room had a cover because I bought a beautiful copper one while in New Mexico. To me an air fryer is essential. It is not a one purpose item. You can do so much with it.

[@MarySamios]

I use my air fryer daily. It uses a lot less energy than heating up the full size oven.

[@REC_CER]

I got myself a 11-in-1 Ninja that air fry, roast, pressure cook, bake etc. Takes up way lesser space than multiple appliances and roast more efficiently than the conventional oven. 😂

[@mimiw1606]

@@MarySamios we do too! We (just 2 of us) cook and bake almost everything in our AF/oven. The only time we use the full sized oven is when doing bacon in bulk for easy breakfasts & BLTs.

[@MarySamios]

@@mimiw1606 I do my bacon in the actual oven, too! And off-topic, I too, am a Mimi. Not in the grandmother sense, or French name aspect, but because one of my nephews couldn't say Aunt Mary, so I am Aunt Mimi to all of my nieces and nephews on my side of the family. :~)

[@mimiw1606]

@MarySamios our oldest thought grma Michelle would be a mouthful for the little one 😆

[@migrabar79]

I agree with quite a few of the items you mention, like rugs under the dining room table and buying everything new. A couple I like to have in my home are table lamps and bedside tables. Overhead lights are harsh, table lamps create special nooks and give a nice, welcoming ambiance to a space. Also, they are practical. I love reading by a lamp, or crocheting. Also, I don't usually have tissue paper, but I do have it available for guests. 🤷🏻‍♀

[@KarMa-ws3ll]

My partner and I lived in 160 - 240 sqf "apartments" for years. When we got a big flat, we lift with just a mattress on the floor plus my workdesk and chair and some plants for months. I made "shelfs" out of moving boxes and fabric "boxes" that we already had. We just did not want to buy "something". It was also the pandemic and things were unreliable anyways. So we looked on the neighborhood app and the german "craigslist" and slowly furnished our flat. It took 1 year until we found our dreamsofa (new, but for 40% of the price). It was worth it. Now we only have the nessesary stuff and that is the stuff we love.

[@rubivasquezmusic]

I have been waiting for a video of yours! Thank you! You have changed my life!!!❤

[@AtoZenLife]

Aw, I’m so happy to have you here with me! Cheers and hugs 🥰

[@LoriWillis-u7q]

I need my lamps.Recessed lighting is good for overall lighting, but I need my bedside lamp and desk lamps as task lighting. The overhead recessed lights would be too much.

[@SpeakTruthBeKind]

I love to read books, so like having a floor lamp over my right shoulder and don’t feel a ceiling light or recessed lighting work for me. It is vintage (a Steiffel) and so is brass and has a very heavy base which I like.

[@Christine-zk6hk]

I'm not a minimalist and don't aspire to become one, but I learn a lot from your channel on reducing what I have. I had a chuckle about the instant pot because I got rid of my rice cooker in favor of the instant pot. I eat primarily brown rice and it cooks so much faster in the instant pot. I also use my instant pot as a slow cooker and it's great for making steel cut oats. As I've gotten older I've found that what others may consider a kitchen gadget, I've found as a kitchen necessity. Also, sometimes I've found making things easier is my goal, rather than "making do" with what I have.

[@AtoZenLife]

See, that’s why it’s important to declutter according to YOUR lifestyle. 👏 Thanks for sharing!

[@JoannaPJ82]

All the wood, light and space that you already have in this house is enough decor. Absolutely beautiful

[@beckymartinez6898]

I don’t use paper plates either when I entertain. However, I usually do small and more intimate gatherings. I have never enjoyed eating off of paper plates😊. It is more work, but it’s worth it to me since it does keep more waste out of landfills and makes for a better future for my grandchildren!

[@silvergirl1420]

Your pretty jade plant can be watered every 2-3 weeks and should get about 4-6 hours of direct sunlight a day for a mature plant. A young plant does well with 4-5 hours of indirect sunlight. You will learn and do well with plants when you get the right plant for the right location. A new home is a great time to ease into plant care and even some gardening. Good luck with your newfound Green Thumb! 🪴

[@donnabrewer3247]

I don’t like rugs they can cause fall’s no

[@QuickSilverHair]

Airplane or spider plants are very easy to keep alive and they act as air filters so they improve your air quality. Great starter plant. You can water them once a week and they are usually happy.

[@liliadietz357]

Thanks for sharing. Even if I'm not this minimal, this video definitely has me reconsidering the amount of these things we need to own. Rugs and tissues are essential for us but only in select rooms and I usually try to hide the tissues in a drawer except for a tissue box in the kitchen and bathroom counter for when guests come.

[@johannathorisdottir2456]

Hey Marissa you are so on point with everything when it comes to minimalism. Never stop filming you are a genius i don´t care what people say about you

[@roxhay]

It is a jade plant. Easy to care for. From one black thumb to another!

[@brandi4492]

This is my favorite video so far. I can’t stand all the things and I’m noticing I just want space. Time to declutter some more.

[@mffmoniz2948]

That plant doesn't need lots of water, so put on the calender a day every couple months to give it some water. Give it lots of light and enjoy the green. Good choice for a plant beginner.

[@yelena86]

No rugs for our house ever. Girl we have the same ideas, this video makes me feel better not having any of these things. I don’t decorate, I’m Asian so we just give cash for the holidays 🙏❤

[@Joce123]

Our family is Hmong and we don't give cash for holidays.

[@jenniemurphy1242]

Love your video. However, as an older person, I need a table lamp to read a book or write in a journal.

[@deborahlyall5484]

I will be moving next week and have had to give away or donate just about eveything in the house,. I'm moving in with my brother and all i'm taking is my bed, chest of drawers , clothes and a few personal things. But its made me realise how I dont need half of what I had and i've already decided that as and when I get my own place it will be essentials only . Thankyou , great vid as always x

[@KCallaAK]

I "almost" considered a napkin holder on our table! See... it's creeps back in after being minimalist for years! Fortunately I realized I LOVE my flat surfaces bare! Great video Marissa, I nodded all the way through. It will be fun to watch you set up your new, beautiful home! ~Karen (in Utah)

[@MyFocusVaries]

We have a napkin holder that lives in our cupboard and comes iut during meal times only

[@leeway3739]

If you are thinking about getting an air fryer, look into possibly replacing your oven if it is older. Most new ovens have an air fryer function, so you could get to have an air fryer without having to have another single use item cluttering up your kitchen. Obviously this is a more expensive option, but might be worth it in the long run.

[@claremiller9979]

This is a great tip for those in a position to renovate or replace parts of a kitchen. She mentioned this house is quite old, so upgrading a big appliance likely does make more sense in the long run versus a stop gap.

[@Ravenelvenlady]

Thanks bro a great video. As for wall clocks, most of them are silent and do not tick anymore.

[@AtoZenLife]

The ones in our rental did - we had to remove the batteries 😂 Cheers and thanks for watching!

[@dianasimplifies]

​@@AtoZenLife😂😂😂

[@visitingfromsantafe1329]

I keep a small clock in my bathroom on a ledge so I can see how much time is passing by as I get ready.

[@onimendez7735]

Your pretty plant (1st one you showed) I believe is Jade. If so, yes it's a succulent and is believed to bring good fortune and abundance to your home. 😊

[@AtoZenLife]

Oooh, thank you so much for sharing! 🪴

[@onimendez7735]

@@AtoZenLife Blessings and all good energies for your your family and lovely new home! 🙏 🌟

[@mariak7622]

Thank you for reminding us that each day is special and to enjoy, not save things. Coming from a family that saved, it helps to have that reminder!😊

[@maryswanson2412]

Thanks so much for this Marissa! One good tip is to stay out of Target, HomeGoods and Hobby Lobby lol - I personally can’t leave without at least $100 “must-haves” that I’m now declutterring! I have one specific question for you: how did you find a furnished short-time rental? Did you go through Air B&B?

[@decembermoon5343]

You can get wooden rice spoons to replace the plastic ones the rice cookers come with! We use ours all the time for rice, beans, basically anything thick that sticks together

[@jnhosier3]

I still get floor lamps and rugs but am on board with your other ideas, especially not buying everything brand new! Happy thrifting!

[@maureenvandine7882]

Loved your minimal style in your German home. Can’t wait to see how beautiful this new home comes to fruition. ❤️🌺

[@ms.schnapp7415]

Great list! Non-essential is something I haven't used in a year. Normally I'd say 6 months but since I have Christmas decor I use once a year for about 5 weeks, my cap is a year.

[@gemmalanning8810]

I am slowly but surely decluttering decades of stuff and I love seeing what others keep or consider essential etc. I believe in doing what makes you happy and what works best for YOU! Yesterday I donated my hand mixer as I have a Thermomix and I can use it to whip cream or blend other items. The Thermomix was a big investment that is used almost daily now. Slowly getting rid of other appliances the Thermomix can do. I always think "if I died tomorrow what would my family want to keep?"

[@AM-bm2xw]

You are my favourite minimalist youtuber for a few reasons, one being that your lifestyle and aesthetic actually looks minimalistic :)

[@arlenekeith6235]

Good tips for not bringing in clutter in a new home. Im working on decluttering and downsizing my 24 year old home. SO much easier to clean with less stuff sitting around !

[@KSB-re7fb]

What a lovely jade plant! They tend to grow slowly but when they're mature enough they flower and it's absolutely worth the wait. Definitely an easy keeper and a personal fave too ❤

[@denisekyle6603]

I use canning jars for drinking glasses, great for doubling up as food storage and for drinking!

[@fiddlejillm]

Snake plants are low maintenance (when you are ready to add another plant). Lists like these are so personal - I found myself agreeing with you on some things and disagreeing with you on other things. I love hearing how others approach their homes. I LOVE open space....I have too many plants....I would never put a rug in my dining room...I love having kleenex and recently bought a cover for one bathroom....I love my velvet and wooden hangars....I love candles in the cooler months....I don't have a lot of throw pillows...we have WAY TOO MANY kitchen appliances but we truly only keep the ones we use...every family and every home needs to find the balance that is just right for them! I'm the only minimalist in my family of four but I have learned to honor what my family members want and need. We have been in this house for 6 years now and it's taken about 5 years for me to find that balance. Your new home is absolutely beautiful - excited for you.

[@kristenchristopher5935]

I found plastic watering bulbs/globes at Dollar Tree this year, so I don't constantly have to water my indoor plants. Instant game changer! And it didn't break the bank, definitely a win-win in my book. Highly recommend!

[@jada2990]

I love that you're in this process now and share content about it, as I am also about to move into a new house and I will use your tips for sure! Thanks!

[@melissasheridan5660]

Great timing with this video, as I am embarking on our 7th military move on 13 years! Moving sure does help you accumulate a lot because I can be excited about decorating a new space. We spent the past year in the smallest home we've been in in recent years. I still felt during packing that we had too much stuff. We definitely need some things for the new house, but I am going to keep all this in mind and go slow when adding anything new.

[@lydiagoularte8973]

Thanks for these ideas. Taking a second pass at my apartment. Fighting my other half to get down to the minimums. We are two. I don't need a 12 qt dutch oven, etc. Things that take up space, etc.

[@renaeans6793]

I would suggest container gardening!!! Just some potted tomatoes, peppers , that sort

[@AtoZenLife]

Fun idea 🤩

[@MyFocusVaries]

I find containers harder to manage since watering is more critical. Maybe partner with another garden KZbinr for some tips. The Impatient Garderner?

[@nathanvaleriano463]

I so appreciate your post. You seem to have the same thoughts about your home as I. Congratulations on your new home.

[@lindseystewart3194]

Agree with these, especially the blanket! I tried to buy a woven blanket and my kids were obsessed with putting their fingers through it, and it was ruined very quickly 😞

[@AtoZenLife]

💯 can see this happening!

[@Smithjones12]

I agree with all these, i love being minimalist.

[@gertyglockenschpitle7711]

100% agree with you that being alive is a reason to celebrate! Use the good stuff! While i have no desire to have a minimalist home I have enjoyed following your journey. It has inspired me to get out and use the things I love and to let go of the things I don't enjoy.

[@TheKatelinn]

So, I do have cushions in my sofa, but I use them as support for my back. I also have several blankets, because I can get cold. I have some bought blankets, but mostly crocheted ones.

[@dranja9746]

Sun catchers are great 😃 I am not into decoration but these sun catchers give me happiness every day (when there is ☀️). 😊

[@HAF-nv9dw]

You can get wooden or bamboo spatula for the rice cooker

[@LoraBurback]

You have a jade plant and it's beautiful! They are very low maintenance, so I'm sure you'll do great with it!

[@deedsh6280]

It's funny what is (and isn't) on those 'lists' for a new home. We were on a tight budget, but decades later, I still remember going to get my first Rubbermaid garbage can, in a color that matched my just purchased first home. All the extras in the world didn't make me as happy as adulting into having my own fresh, clean garbage can. :)

[@marcelazimna1022]

Plants,growing veg and flowers it is easy when you gain the skill,like everything in the beginning seems impossible until you learn.

[@asianangel5400]

I think when we as individuals understand contentment and live within our means, then we will be truly happy with the space we are given. If one wants to maximize or minimalize, I think it's best to be intentional.

[@Icecandy1882]

This post is so re-assuring. I've moved toward minimalism in the last 4 yrs and moved homes 2x. My house has a lot of echo because I have so much space. I also don't have a dresser, nightstands and rugs. I barely have any decor as well

[@ForenkleRedusere]

I would recommend using handkerchief as an option for tissue paper. We use washable solutions for everything (except toiletpaper); handkerchief, washable kitchen towels, cloth napkins(not linen, they need to be iorned, but a cotton-polyester blend) etc

[@deidrecampbell9454]

Your new home content is perfect timing for me as we’re buying our first home and will be moving in the coming months.

[@karinecarrier7998]

I love so much that your new home is like a blank canvas and you get to choose how to furnish/ decorate it etc. from scratch! The plants you are going to get are going to love all the light 🪴 so exciting 😊

[@sl9906]

Hi Marissa! Great video and I’m rejoicing along with everyone else about your new home ❤ Your plant is a Jade plant, and very low maintenance. It should be very happy in your digs!

[@annamcg928]

I LOVE your new house! The style really fits you. Can't wait to see what you do with it. You and Dawn from Minimal Mom are my favorite Minimal youtubers!

[@kennethbailey9853]

Another Fine Creator was Appreciating You today and it made me Smile.

[@MarySamios]

Ha! When you were talking about pillows and rough housing, I thought you were going to say they get thrown at people!

[@AtoZenLife]

Oh for sure! Well, thrown at each other at least 😅

[@anna48941]

💖 I love your channel! I've been watching for a while now and you've been so inspiring for me! Especially in this video; you described so many things I was already doing and it felt validating! Personally, I consider art to be essential for my home; I've collected vintage photos and paintings from thrift stores, art galleries, and even made some myself! It's essential to me because art breathes personality and life into my home. And minimalism is more flexible than people realize, I love that you're explaining how and why certain things don't work for your own lifestyle (but may work for someone else). Please keep up the good work! Your videos are super useful and fun to watch! 💖

[@jandkhilbert]

When crochet and quilts are given, I have a hard time giving those up - they get used some

[@thecountrygardener4517]

🚪, thw one throw I am definitely keeping is one made of thick hoodie material, it's so soft and comfy and has no fuzzy lint!

[@susancole227]

It’s a jade plant. I’m a recovering black thumb. My daughter gave me a light/moisture meter (they’re pretty inexpensive), and it’s made all the difference!

[@bobbiefarrar3036]

We have ceiling/recessed leds in our living room - one switch turns on 6 lights! We do have a dimmer, but still that is a lot of lights on. I enjoy my one floor lamp with a little table on by itself; so it's subtle lighting. Same goes for our bedrooms - subtle lamps not bright ceiling lights. Thanks for sharing your new home! God bless you and yours.