I don’t know about you, but as summer winds down, I always get the urge to reset a little, even as I’m still enjoying our backyard pool and the warmer weather. Not a full deep clean or a top-to-bottom overhaul, mind you. Just a lightening-up. A way to breathe a little easier before the season shifts.
If you’re feeling that too, here’s something quick and doable: decluttering just a few tiny things around the house. Nothing huge or sentimental. Just everyday items that tend to pile up and don’t need to come with you into fall.
And if the heat has your home feeling stuffy and weighed down, these small decluttering wins pair perfectly with this post on how to keep your home cool without AC. Less clutter = more breathing room.
Quick wins to clear the summer clutter
1. Worn-out flip flops and sandals
If they’re cracked, stretched out, or uncomfortable, let them go. You probably won’t wear them again next year anyway.
2. Expired sunscreen
Sunscreen doesn’t last forever. Check the date and toss anything expired or half-empty from last year’s stash.
3. Broken or bent sunglasses
The scratched, too-loose, or kid-twisted pairs don’t need to hang around. Keep the ones that fit well and feel good.
4. Water bottles with missing parts
You know the ones…no lid, no straw, or all cloudy (ew!). Recycle or toss them and reclaim the cabinet space.
5. Stale snacks and melted messes in the pantry
Summer snacks have a way of hiding and going stale. Do a quick sweep and toss anything questionable (especially if it’s been in the car!).
6. Outdoor toys that didn’t survive summer
Broken chalk, deflated balls, water blasters with no pressure left. If it’s not working or being used, it’s okay to let it go.
7. Patio clutter
Take a few minutes to clear off surfaces: old citronella candles, crusty planters, empty cans. It’s a five-minute tidy with a big payoff.
8. Pool bags or beach totes you didn’t use
If it sat untouched for weeks, do a quick check. Is there anything inside that needs to be put away, donated, or tossed? Do that and then hang the bag up somewhere to be used later.
9. Summer decor that no longer suits you
That one throw pillow, the wall art you didn’t hang, or anything that feels more “meh” than meaningful. Donate it now while it’s in season so someone else can get use of it.
10. The junk drawer (yes, really!)
It’s tiny, and it always fills up fast in the summer with batteries, lighters, twist ties, hair elastics, and random bits. Empty it, sort it, and start fresh.
FAQs
A: You could tackle all 10 in under an hour, or spread it out over a few days. There’s no rush. Remember just make some progress.
A: Toss true trash, donate usable items, and recycle where you can. Keep a donation bag handy so it’s easy to carry out later.
A: Yes! Think of it as clearing space for the cozy season ahead. Fall decorating and nesting feel so much better in a lighter, cleaner space.
You don’t have to do a massive cleanout to feel lighter at home. Just choosing a few tiny things to let go of before the season changes can make a surprisingly big impact. You’ll feel more settled and less cluttered heading into September.
What would you add to this list? Come share your favorite end-of-summer declutter in the comments below.
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I move 2 1/2 years ago. Experienced losses, auto accident, other personal issues. Still have not had the chance to declutter this year as planned, due to the auto accident. I have to remove the things out of the shed, so I can then put my young adult kid stuff in there in order to clear out my home. These are the biggest issues I am facing right now. Until I am able to do that, I feel there is little to nothing I can do to stop feeling as if I am living like a hoarder. Please advise! Thank you.
I’m really sorry to hear of your struggles, Ivory. Is there anyone who can come help you with these tasks?