10 Things to Declutter this Fall!

We’ve all heard of spring cleaning, but fall is also a great time to get your house back in order. After all, you’ll be inside more until spring comes back again! During the summer, the inside of our houses get neglected as we spent more time at the pool or even doing yard work. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and give a little attention to our house again by decluttering anything old, broken, expired, or that we never use. It’s time for our annual fall declutter session.

Here we go.

1. Expired spices.

Expired spices won’t make you sick but they do lose flavor over time. Thankfully, they make it really easy for you by putting the date on the bottom. Go ahead and throw out any that are past their date and then add those spices to your grocery list to pick up some fresh ones next time you’re out. While I’m at it, this year, I’m decluttering the spice bottles my spices come in and going for a prettier, more streamlined look with these matching glass spice bottles.

Just don’t forget to label the bottom with tape, or your label maker, so you know when they expire too.

2. Sandals that hurt your feet or you never wore.

If you went through a whole summer and didn’t wear a pair of sandals once, chances are you never will. Either they hurt your feet or didn’t match anything and it’s time to say goodbye. You can donate them to a thrift store, but if it’s still warm out, go ahead and try to resell them if they are in new or nearly new condition. And make sure to read my article, “4 places to donate clothes and shoes so they actually get used” and don’t end up in a landfill.

3. Ditto on the bathing suits.

It’s time to move on.

4. Old sunscreen.

This might be obvious, or not, but old sunscreen isn’t as effective. And if it’s already expired this summer it will be even more so the next. Throw it out so you don’t have to store it another year. I’d also add to throw out any sunscreens that contain potentially harmful ingredients. For me, I love using Sun Bum, but the safest brands contain zinc oxide and not much else.

5. Water toys.

It’s also a great time to sell or donate water toys that your kids have outgrown. We’re talking water tables, water guns, and even bubble machines. Sell, donate, or give to a friend. Whatever you choose you won’t have to store it over the winter either.

6. Garden tools.

Have some rusty garden tools or ones you never used? It might be a good time to give them a new home. And while you’re at it, organize your garden supplies so that come spring you’re all ready to go. I love this garden tool organizing rack to get you started.

7. Fall decor.

As you put up your fall decorations, why not donate the ones you don’t end up using (and never will) I know my style has changed throughout the years and yours likely has too. Pass along to another family who will love and enjoy them before the season ends. They’ll be less to put away when it’s time to dig out those Christmas decorations too.

8. Your car.

No, don’t get rid of your car. 😉 Declutter all the junk in it. Throw out the paper napkins, old fries, and water bottles. Put away the hats, shoes, and extra umbrellas. And (!!) even run a vacuum in it. Now you’re all ready for those fall adventures.

9. Craft supplies.

With many kids back in school, it’s the perfect time to declutter and organize their craft supplies while they are out of the house. (Or maybe your own?) Throw out broken crayons, miscellaneous supplies left over from a previous project, and crafts you’re not into anymore. (This caddy is perfect for kids.) I promise you, you and your kids will feel more creative once you do.

10. Your expectations.

What? Well, hear me out. This fall, give yourself some grace if you don’t visit every pumpkin patch, or don’t put up all the holiday decor. Maybe this season is for a little rest too.

To wrap up, don’t feel overwhelmed by this list. Take one a day, or even just one a week, to tackle this fall season. I know I will be.

Which area do you need to fall declutter the most? ⤵️⤵️⤵️

And if you liked this article, you’ll also love, “5 Steps to Get your Wardrobe Ready for Fall“5 Steps to Get your Wardrobe Ready for Fall.”