diff --git a/js/particles.js b/js/particles.js
index 30fd526..2ad9e4d 100644
--- a/js/particles.js
+++ b/js/particles.js
@@ -5,11 +5,6 @@ function particles(){
     */
 
     // check parameters and use defaults as necessary
-    let numParticles;
-    let sizeMultiplier;
-    let speed;
-    let avoidMouse;
-    let hover;
     checkParams();
 
     // read css colour variables from root element, set defaults as necessary