10 Things to Declutter to Get Ready for Fall: A Guide for Moms

As the crisp air of fall starts to roll in, it brings a fresh new energy that often inspires us to make changes in our homes and lives. For busy moms juggling family, work, and everything in between, fall is the perfect time to declutter and create a cozy, inviting space that reflects the season’s warmth and comfort. Decluttering not only helps to keep our homes organized but also reduces stress and makes it easier to enjoy the little moments with our loved ones. Here are ten things you can declutter to get your home ready for fall.

1. Summer Clothes and Accessories

The first step in preparing for fall is to tackle your wardrobe. Go through your family’s summer clothes and accessories, such as swimsuits, flip-flops, and sun hats. Sort out items that are worn out, no longer fit, or haven’t been worn all season. Consider donating gently used clothes to a local charity or thrift store. Store the remaining summer items in bins or vacuum-sealed bags to save space. This process will free up closet space for cozy sweaters, scarves, and boots, making it easier to find what you need as the temperatures drop.

2. Outgrown Kids’ Clothing and Toys

Children grow fast, and their needs change just as quickly. Take this opportunity to go through your kids’ closets and toy bins. Sort out clothes that no longer fit and toys they no longer play with. You can pass them down to younger siblings, donate them, or sell them online or at a consignment store. Decluttering these items not only clears up space but also makes room for new fall gear, like jackets and boots, and upcoming holiday gifts.

3. Old School Supplies

With the start of a new school year, it’s time to clear out last year’s leftover school supplies. Gather all the pencils, markers, notebooks, and other supplies from around the house. Check which items are still in good condition and can be used this year. Recycle or dispose of anything that’s broken or unusable. This is also a great time to set up a dedicated homework station that’s neat, organized, and stocked with everything your children need for a successful school year.

4. Expired Pantry Items

Fall is a great time to refresh your kitchen pantry. Go through all your dry goods, canned items, and spices. Check expiration dates and get rid of anything that’s expired or won’t be used. Organize your pantry by grouping similar items together, such as baking supplies, snacks, and canned goods. This not only makes it easier to find what you need but also helps you plan meals more efficiently, minimizing waste and saving money.

5. Paper Clutter

Paper clutter can quickly pile up and create chaos in a home. Go through all the piles of mail, school papers, and miscellaneous documents that have accumulated over the summer. Shred any papers with sensitive information and recycle the rest. Consider going digital with your bills and important documents to reduce future paper clutter. Setting up a filing system for essential documents and a designated spot for incoming mail will help keep paper clutter at bay.

6. Unused or Broken Household Items

Take a walk through your home and identify items that are unused, broken, or simply taking up space. This could be anything from small kitchen gadgets to outdated electronics or even old linens. If these items no longer serve a purpose or bring joy, it’s time to let them go. Donate items that are still in good condition and recycle or dispose of broken ones responsibly. Clearing out these items will make your home feel more spacious and manageable.

7. Bathroom Cabinets and Drawers

Bathrooms can easily become cluttered with half-used beauty products, expired medications, and old toiletries. Go through each cabinet and drawer, checking expiration dates and getting rid of anything that’s old or unused. Group similar items together, like skincare products, first-aid supplies, and daily essentials, to make them easier to find. This simple decluttering process will make your morning routine smoother and your bathroom more functional and inviting.

8. Seasonal Decorations

As you prepare to decorate for fall, take a moment to sort through your seasonal decorations. Get rid of any items that are broken, outdated, or that you no longer love. This will make it easier to find and display your favorite fall decor pieces. Consider storing seasonal decorations in labeled bins for easy access next year. A well-organized decoration stash makes it more enjoyable to decorate your home for every season.

9. Digital Clutter

Digital clutter is often overlooked, but it can be just as overwhelming as physical clutter. Take some time to declutter your digital life by organizing your emails, deleting old photos and files, and uninstalling apps you no longer use. Set up folders for important documents and consider using cloud storage to keep everything organized and accessible. Reducing digital clutter can help you feel more focused and less stressed, especially if you’re balancing work and family life from home.

10. Your Car

As a mom, your car is probably a hub of activity. It’s where you shuttle kids to and from school, run errands, and head out for weekend adventures. Declutter your car by removing any trash, old toys, or items that don’t belong there. Keep a small bin for trash and a tote for items that need to be brought into the house. A clean and organized car can make daily commutes less stressful and more enjoyable.

Bonus Tip: Establish a Decluttering Routine

Once you’ve gone through these ten areas, consider establishing a regular decluttering routine to maintain a clutter-free home. Set aside a specific time each week or month to tackle small decluttering tasks. Involving your family in these activities not only lightens the load but also teaches your children the importance of maintaining a tidy and organized living space.

Conclusion

Decluttering before fall is a fantastic way to refresh your home and create a warm, inviting environment for your family. By tackling these ten areas, you’ll not only create more space but also reduce stress and make your home more functional for the busy months ahead. Remember, a clutter-free home is a happy home, and with a little effort, you can enjoy a cozy, organized space all season long.

Ready to start decluttering? Grab a cup of your favorite fall beverage, put on some music, and enjoy the process of creating a more organized and peaceful home!