With my mostly empty minimalist home, I took stock of what I have now, especially the things I might have got rid of.

They are not “Designed for minimalists” and they might seem ordinary, but they are the powerful essentials that have served me well.

Sometimes the simplest things do the best job of making life cosy.

I’d love to share my top 7 humble essentials.

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Hero Organisers

1: Vacuum Storage Bags

I keep two large vacuum storage bags on the top shelf of my wardrobe. These free up wardrobe space, keeping items fresh and protected.

One holds guest bedding, though admittedly, it has not been used for four years.
Another one stores big winter coats and chunky jumpers without worrying about moths or mould.

Put items in, seal the zip, place the vacuum cleaner nozzle to the valve, and suck out the air until the bag is flat.

It’s easier than finding a box, folding them tightly, trying to fit them into the shape, and then making enough space for the box in the wardrobe.

2: Natural Moth Repellent

I always want to avoid chemical smells or those funky lavender smells on my clothes.

Synthetic insect repellents cause skin irritation for me, so natural cedarwood protection is the best alternative, and it actually works.

To recharge these blocks, use sandpaper when their scent fades, or add a drop of cedarwood essential oil.

This repellent lasts for years, so no need to buy other ones with plastic packages.

Though I allow one support repellent, for particularly tenacious moths, I use a moth trap as backup.

3: Clipboard

This simple tool, like any other, is actually a great temporary organisation solution.

I reuse paper by using on both sides, and when some temporary paperwork and notes get messy on the desk, I just bind them all here and continue working.

It helps me keep going while avoiding feeling drained by looking at the messy, scattered papers on the desk.

4: Staple-less Stapler

It’s a non-staple stapler for temporary organisation that, without a staple core, keeps it zero waste.

I also use it to hang shopping lists and temporary notes by utilising the hole created when it is stapled.

It’s handy without feeling guilty about producing staple waste on every snap.

*Below is not exactly the same as the one above, but closest.

Kitchen Must Haves

5: Paper Composite Cutting Board

I’ve been using this cutting board for years and haven’t needed to replace it. It has good durability and is lightweight, and even resists heat up to 176°C.

Its size works just right for my cooking requirements, thin and light, so it can be nicely stored.

I maintain it by waxing the surface with coconut oil, which keeps it in good condition.

6: Water Filter Jug

Since I quit buying bottled water, having a water filter has really improved my water consumption habits.

I can drink the right amount of water without worrying about how many plastic bottles are left or how much plastic I’ve thrown away.

I stopped using tap water for cooking, and this improved the taste of meals, tea and coffee.

Less limescale on my plates and cups has simplified cleaning too.
It costs less than buying water or installing a water purifier, and it’s also better to know what goes into the water to drink.

7: Pliers

This tool may seem like one that might sit in a shed or DIY toolbox, but I invited it into my kitchen.

It’s great for opening tight jars and stubborn plastic bottle caps, providing extra grip for slippery fingers. It’s a fabulous companion for people who live alone and have no one to ask for help.

If you have one in the toolbox, bring it into the kitchen. You might find many kitchen handy tools can be replaced by this humble one.

While I don’t count every single item I own, I regularly try to reflect on how I use what I have.

That way, I can avoid getting rid of things that have actually worked for me, while also not bringing in anything I know I won’t use, even if I thought I wanted it.

It might be a tiny habit, but it’s one that really helps keep a minimalist and considered home feeling just right!

For more great minimalism essentials (and 5 more inside!), along with real-life demons, please visit the One Minimal Life YouTube Channel: 12 Humble but Powerful Essentials I’ve Kept for Years at Home as a Minimalist