As Labor Day weekend fades away in our rearview, I’m sure for a lot of you it also means that the last of the beach towels are tucked away, the kids are back to school, and the summer chaos is slowly winding down. While the end of the summer season always brings a little bit of sadness, there’s also a fresh and hopeful feeling as fall starts to make its entrance.
Fall has a way of giving us permission to breathe again. It’s that sweet spot between summer’s whirlwind and the holiday rush. With more structure in our days and cooler evenings setting in, it’s the perfect season to reset. And what better way to reset your life than by decluttering your space?
Not only will decluttering make your home feel fresh, but it can also bring a sense of calm and control to your everyday routine. Plus, it doesn’t have to feel like a dreaded chore. With the right mindset, and maybe even a little creativity, you can turn decluttering into something enjoyable and freeing.
So, let’s get this new season started by refreshing our space and minds together! Here are five fun ways to declutter your home (and life) this fall.
1. Closet clean-out:
Fall fashion means cozy sweaters, boots, and some fun layering pieces, but before you dive into your wardrobe, take stock. Pull out everything from your closet and ask yourself: “Would I wear this on a crisp fall day? Or have I worn this in the last year?” If the answer is no to either question, it’s time to donate, sell, or repurpose.
Tip to make this closet clean-out even more fun: Host a mini “closet swap” with friends. Everyone brings items they don’t wear anymore and trades for something new-to-them. Not only do you declutter, but you also refresh your style guilt-free.
2. Clear the shoes
Shoes seem to multiply when we’re not looking. Whether it’s flip-flops, sneakers, heels, or boots, they pile up so fast. Now’s the time to go through your collection and decide what’s still comfortable and in good shape. Anything too small, worn out, or unloved? Time to let it go.
3. Freezer and fridge fresh start
After a busy summer of cookouts, beach snacks, and grab-and-go meals, your fridge and freezer are probably due for a reset. Toss expired condiments, mystery leftovers, and anything freezer-burned. Wipe down the shelves and drawers, and restock with fall favorites like soups, apples, and meal prep staples.
Tip to make it fun: Turn on some upbeat music, or a fall playlist, set a timer for 20 minutes, and see how much you can get done before the timer dings.
4. Declutter your “drop zone”
Every house has one, it’s either the entryway table, kitchen counter, or random chair that collects keys, mail, bags, and everything in between. This fall, reclaim that space. Add a small basket for keys, hooks for bags, and a pretty tray for mail. When everything has a home, clutter doesn’t pile up as quickly.
Reward yourself with something seasonal when you’re done. Light your favorite fall candle or sip a pumpkin spice latte in your newly cleared space, and enjoy the refresh.
5. Digital declutter
Clutter isn’t always physical: It’s on our phones, computers, and even our minds. Spend a fall afternoon cleaning up your digital life. Delete unused apps, organize your photo albums, and unsubscribe from the dozens of emails you never read. To help refresh your mind as well, add a fresh fall background on your phone or computer once you’re done. It’s like giving your digital space a seasonal makeover to match your home.
Decluttering isn’t about getting rid of everything; it’s about making room for what matters. By taking advantage of the slower fall season, you’re not just cleaning your home, but you’re also creating a calmer environment to carry you into the holidays and beyond.
So, this fall, skip one extra Netflix episode and use that time to declutter a drawer, a closet, or even your phone. Little by little, you’ll feel lighter, more organized, and more in control.
