Medicine Cabinet Mayhem: How to Declutter and Stay Safe

Quick.  Name the one space in your home that is REALLY disorganized and in need of some serious decluttering. Many clients say the basement, playroom, or closets, and yes, these are often trouble spots. However, one of the most overlooked spaces is the bathroom medicine cabinet.

We use it multiple times a day, yet we rarely give it a thought unless we need something specific. Over time, it becomes cluttered and chaotic. While a medicine cabinet might seem like a low organizing priority, it’s essential for both ease of use and, most importantly, safety.

How the Heck Old IS This, Anyway?

The first step in tackling your medicine cabinet is addressing expiration dates. Expired medications can be ineffective or even harmful. Here’s how to get started:

• Check Expiration Dates: Go through all medications, including over-the-counter and prescriptions. When in doubt, err on the side of caution.
• Remove Heat-Sensitive Medications: Pharmaceuticals should not be stored in a bathroom medicine cabinet. Heat and moisture can break down the components faster.
• Secure Narcotics: Any prescription narcotics should be kept in a locked, secure space rather than an easily accessible medicine cabinet.
• Dispose Properly: Take expired or unused medications to a local pharmacy, hospital, or police department for proper disposal. Never flush them down the toilet, as this can contaminate water supplies.

Organize What’s Left

Once the expired and unnecessary items are gone, it’s time to bring some order to your cabinet. Follow these tips:

• Containerize Similar Items: Use small acrylic containers or Ziploc bags to keep like items together. Examples include:
  • First aid supplies
  • Dental care products
  • Shaving and grooming products
• Store Duplicates Elsewhere: If you have backups or extra supplies, store them in a labeled bin outside of your cabinet to free up prime space.
• Prioritize Accessibility: Keep everyday essentials within easy reach. Designate a clear home for each category of items.

With a little time and effort, your medicine cabinet can become a well-organized space that supports your daily routine. Your future self will thank you every time you open that door!  And don’t forget — National Clean Out Your Medicine Cabinet Day on April 18, 2025 is a great reminder to tackle this task! Plus, you can safely dispose of unwanted medications on DEA National Take Back Day on April 26, 2025.