You might be surprised by what doesn’t belong in your pocket. Sure, your phone, wallet, and keys seem like logical choices, but are they really the best fit? And there’s more to it—certain items can actually be harmful in ways you probably haven’t even thought of. The truth is, your pockets are more precious than you think.
Curious yet? Keep reading to find out which three items you should avoid putting in your pocket and why. You might just be saving yourself a lot of frustration in the long run.
1. Loose Change
Sure, it’s tempting to just slip your spare coins into your pocket when you’re in a hurry, but this is a huge mistake. Loose change can create a mess, scratching your phone or any other items you have in your pocket. Over time, the coins can wear down the fabric, leaving your pocket looking shabby. Plus, it’s easy for them to fall out without you noticing, making them a bit of a hassle to keep track of.
2. Your Phone (Without Protection)
We all carry our phones in our pockets, but keeping them unprotected is risky. A phone without a case can easily get scratched or damaged, especially when placed in a pocket with keys, coins, or even just other rough surfaces. The pressure from sitting down or even just the friction of walking can also put stress on your device, potentially leading to internal damage or cracks in the screen. It’s always a good idea to invest in a sturdy case, even if your pocket is the most convenient spot.
3. Pens and Markers
We’ve all tossed a pen in our pocket for “just in case,” but pens can be a ticking time bomb. With enough movement, they can leak ink, which will stain your clothes and other items in your pocket—especially your phone, wallet, or other essentials. If you do need to carry a pen, make sure it’s capped tightly and ideally placed in a dedicated pen holder or pouch. This way, you avoid any unwanted ink disasters.
What Should You Carry in Your Pocket?
Now that we’ve covered the items you should avoid putting in your pocket, what should you carry? The key is to keep things simple and only carry what you need for the day.
Cash: Keep a small amount of money on hand for those times when technology fails (like when a card machine is down or your phone dies).
A Slim Wallet or Cardholder: A pocket-sized cardholder or minimalist wallet is perfect for carrying your ID, debit cards, and some cash without the bulk.
A Small, Foldable Tote or Reusable Bag: If you need to carry extra items throughout the day, consider using a small, foldable tote that can fit in your bag or pocket without taking up too much space.
By being mindful of what you put in your pockets, you can avoid damage to your belongings and keep things organized throughout the day. Stick to essentials, and your pockets will thank you!
