29 things every minimalist should own

For me minimalism isn’t about having less or going without. It’s about carefully curating a life filled with items that are either useful or bring joy. And for me those things that bring joy should be pieces that I absolutely love! They might be luxury pieces or they might be every day low budget items. The important thing is that they enhance my life. So, here’s a curated list of essential items every minimalist should have. Organised into 6 easy categories and focusing on quality, versatility, and simplicity:

🏠 Home & Living

1. Bed & quality mattress – An essential item for every home. Whether that’s a futon or a four poster bed, find your style and enjoy. But, remember comfort is key.

2. Two sets of bedding – One to use, one to wash. I personally like to spend a little more on bedding and get a nice thick cotton set. You don’t have to spend hundreds but I personally really notice the quality when I spend a little more and get a better threat count.

3. Multi-purpose furniture – a table that doubles as a desk. A decorative piece that doubles as storage (I have a solid wooden tv unit that has a cupboard under it) not only do I love the piece it’s also functional to store my son’s toys.

4. Minimal cookware set – One pot, one pan, chef’s knife, cutting board. Unless you’re a chef of have a passion for cooking lots of different dishes and need extra cooking equipment stick to the minimal amount of stuff that you actually use. The kitchen can easily become a hoard of pots, pans and wooden spoons.

5. Reusable dishes & utensils – I think this goes without saying. Use plates and cutlery that you just wash and reuse. But only enough for the amount you need. If you host dinner parties a lot then you might need enough for the amount of people you usually invite. But if you don’t just have what you need.

6. Good lighting – A single well-placed lamp can work miracles. We have ceiling lights but depending on the room we rarely use them, opting for soft lamp lighting that is so much more cosy. But that really is personal preference.

7. Cleaning essentials – All-purpose cleaner, cloths, broom/vacuum. I love an all purpose cleaner. I often make one using a mix of white vinegar, water and dish soap. But there are plenty of all in ones that make cleaning easy.

👕 Clothing

1. Capsule wardrobe – Neutral, mix-and-match pieces. I love having a neutral mix and match wardrobe it’s made getting ready in the mornings so much simpler. When I want a splash of colour I’ll use accessories to do that. Again this is personal preference but I’d say if you stick to three or 4 main colours you’ll be able to create a great capsule wardrobe whatever colours you enjoy. Personally mine is black, white, grey and light blue. But I’m partial to a red lip on occasion which adds some flare.

2. One formal outfit – For special occasions. A good piece will last a lifetime and can be accessories to give a different look each time.

3. Quality outerwear – Weather-appropriate coat or jacket. As someone living in the UK I very much have a four season climate. This might not be necessary for you if you live in a warm climate the entire year. So this one really depends on circumstances.

4. Comfortable shoes – One casual, one formal, one athletic. I most definitely own more than three pairs of shoes. But if you just want essentials then these three fit most occasions.

5. Everyday accessories – Minimal watch, hat, or bag if needed. I enjoy accessories to change up outfits but this again will depend on your lifestyle.

💻 Technology

1. Reliable smartphone – This little piece of handheld tech replaces so many single-use devices.

2. Laptop or tablet – For work, study, or creative projects. The laptop covered everything else that your phone can’t.

3. Chargers & cables – Keep only what you actually use. I had so many cables and leads and I couldn’t honestly tell you what most of them came with.

4. Noise-cancelling headphones – These are completely optional. They allow for focus and calm. I personally just use normal headphones and loop earplugs (as I like quiet for sleeping) but they double up for toning down everyday noise too.

🧳 Travel & Mobility

1. Durable backpack, tote or handbag – Most people need some sort of bag for an everyday carry what you use will depend on your personal circumstances if you need one at all.

2. Compact travel bag – For trips or overnights. I guess your regular backpack could be used for this if it’s a good enough size. Depends on your travel plans.

3. Reusable water bottle – I try not to buy water when out and about. Most of the time I’ll carry my water bottle and my reusable coffee cup too.

4. Lightweight rain jacket – This is climate dependant and will either be very useful or completely redundant depending on where you live. But if you’re in the UK like me then it’s practical and packable.

📚 Personal & Wellness

1. Toiletry essentials – Surprisingly you don’t need all the lotions and positions you’re told you need. You only need a minimal amount of items daily.

2. Minimal first-aid kit – Just the basics for small everyday issues.

3. One or two meaningful books – I keep very few actual books these days. Most of mine are now digital and available whenever I need them on my phone or tablet.

4. Journal or note app – For thoughts, goals, and gratitude. I personally use a note app and digital gratitude journal. I find it easier and that way I can update it on the go. But there is something to be said for putting pen to paper.

5. Yoga mat or exercise gear – Simple tools for movement. I have a yoga mat and a couple of small weights. That’s it.

🧠 Intangible Essentials: we are now onto the non physical aspects of life but they are no less important.

1. Mindful routines – Morning/evening habits that center you. These are vital for a less busy and more centred body that provides clarity of mind.

2. Digital minimalism – Organized files, clean inbox. I recently had a huge phone clear out of apps and pictures etc. I feel so much better now.

3. Financial clarity – Track spending, this is something everyone should do not just minimalists. But as a minimalist by only owning what adds value you aren’t wasting money.

4. Intentional mindset – Focus on experiences, not possessions. It took me a while to get here but now I am there is no going back.

Thanks for being here today. I hope you found some value in this post. I’m going to continue to try to post weekly although sometimes it isn’t always the easiest thing to remember.

Until next time,

Love Charlotte x