As the summer winds down and the crisp fall air starts to roll in, it’s the perfect time to declutter your home. With the busy fall season just around the corner, getting rid of unnecessary items now can make your home feel more organized and welcoming. Here are some tips on what to declutter before cooler temps arrive.
1. Summer Clothing and Accessories
Now is the time to go through your summer wardrobe. Pull out all your shorts, tank tops, and swimsuits, and decide what you didn’t wear this season. If you haven’t worn it in the past few months, consider donating it. Store away the summer clothes you want to keep, but make sure they’re clean and in good condition before packing them away. This will free up space in your closet for cozy sweaters and fall layers.
2. Outdoor Gear
With summer activities winding down, it’s a good idea to declutter outdoor gear like pool toys, beach chairs, and camping equipment. If anything is damaged or no longer used, either recycle it or donate it. This will make room for storing fall items like rakes, leaf blowers, and holiday decorations.
3. Expired Pantry Items
Fall is a great time to organize your pantry. Go through your pantry shelves and check expiration dates on spices, sauces, and canned goods. Toss anything that’s expired or that you know you won’t use. This will make space for all the ingredients you’ll need for hearty fall recipes.
4. Old Papers and Mail
Paper clutter can accumulate quickly, so take some time to sort through old papers, bills, and mail. Shred anything with personal information that you no longer need and file away important documents. This is also a great opportunity to unsubscribe from junk mail and go paperless with your billing to reduce future clutter.
5. Books and Magazines
If you have stacks of magazines and books that you’ve already read or don’t plan to read, consider donating them to a local library or charity. Clearing out these items can create a more peaceful environment and give you more space for cozy fall reading material.
6. Toys and Games
If you have children, now is the time to go through their toys and games. Donate or sell anything they’ve outgrown or no longer play with. This will make room for new toys that might come with the holiday season and keep your home from feeling too cluttered.
7. Garage and Storage Areas
Garages and storage spaces can become catch-alls for items you don’t know what to do with. Spend a weekend going through these areas and sorting items into keep, donate, and toss piles. Decluttering these spaces now will make it easier to access things you’ll need in the fall, like holiday decorations and winter gear.
8. Decorative Items
If your home is filled with decorative items that no longer suit your style or feel out of season, consider paring down. You don’t need to get rid of everything, but simplifying your decor can make your home feel more spacious and ready for the new season.
Final Thoughts
Decluttering before the fall season not only helps you create a more organized living space but also sets the tone for a fresh start as the seasons change. If you’re thinking about a new space this fall, contact HomeGate Realty today!
