If you find there is a general problem of people in your household using things, and then not putting them away, consider using a 'lost property' box - if you see something lying around, simply drop it into the box.  If you notice that the item hasn't been claimed for some time, ask the owner if s/he would be happy for you to bin it, sell it, or give it to charity.

As far as other people's belongings are concerned, the last resort should be for you to decide to get rid of some of them.  Think about adding more storage, and also helping them to learn to keep their things tidy.  Most important of all, set a good example, so try to sort out your own clutter first!

Problem: Too many chairs, dishes, saucepans, etc.

Often, we tend to use the same items from a set of pans or crockery and others can gather dust.  Mix and match your favourite dishes, saucepans, etc. to create an eclectic mix of functional items and get rid of the things you never use.

Consider the possibility that there could be someone just starting out in a new home, who really would welcome some of your unwanted items.  If you are keeping things because you think you might need them in the future, why not get together with a few friends and agree to share crockery, chairs, etc. with each other if you should ever need extra for guests.

If you want to make some extra money for yourself, why not paint the old chairs and other items to sell at craft fairs?  Alternatively, try thinking of alternative uses for the items so they are still useful even when they are not fulfilling their primary function.  Depending on the style of your interior decoration, a wooden chair can double as a side table next to a sofa or bed, dishes can be used in the bathroom or as plant pots (stand a cheap plastic pot inside it so the dirt doesn't get onto the dish too much - it will wash off in any case!).

Problem: 'Intellectual Clutter' (books, CD-ROM's, etc.)

Can't bring yourself to throw the old ones out? Don't worry, we'll be gentle with you!