Every summer, it happens. We dive headfirst into the warm weather – beach days, backyard barbecues, summer camps – and then suddenly it’s August. Somewhere between the sunscreen and the s’mores, the house tends to get completely overlooked…and quite often trashed as we run in and out. And that’s totally okay! Summer doesn’t last forever!
But if you’re feeling the urge to reset your house a bit before fall (without diving into a full home overhaul), this list is for you. These five areas are easy to miss but so satisfying to tidy up – and I promise they won’t take hours to tackle.
And if you’re craving simple routines that help keep things from spiraling in the first place, my Essential Home Habits course teaches the exact rhythms that help our home run smoothly – even in busy seasons like this one.
Why These Little Spots Matter
Even if the rest of your home feels mostly in order, these small spaces tend to collect clutter fast because they’re the ones we use all the time. Giving them a quick reset now will help you feel more in control (and less overwhelmed) as you transition into a new season and say goodbye-for-now to the lovely days of summer.
1. The Outdoor Toy Bin (or Backyard Zone)
Whether you have little ones or just the regular yard gear, outdoor toys and games can pile up fast. Think busted chalk, half-filled bubble bottles, cracked buckets, or that one lonely water blaster that’s seen better days.
Quick tip: Toss anything broken or unused, and store what’s still in good shape in a weather-proof bin for next year.
2. The Car Glove Box and Console
Road trips, drive-thrus, park visits… summer turns the car into a bit of a dumping ground (with three kids, ask me how I know that one!). Glove compartments and consoles are often stuffed with random wipes, receipts, melted crayons (yep, I’ve been there), and more.
Quick tip: Pull everything out, wipe down surfaces, and only put back what you actually need – like a few napkins, registration papers, and a travel-sized hand sanitizer.
3. Garden Tools and Supplies
It’s so easy to leave these out in the garage or shed in a tangled pile. Before everything gets packed away for the colder months, take 15 minutes to organize your garden gloves, trowels, seed packets, and other tools.
Quick tip: Wipe everything down, group like items together, and make a note of anything you want to replace next year while it’s still fresh in your mind. (I try to do this every year, and totally kick myself the years I forget.)
4. The Front Entry or Mudroom
All summer long, this space tends to collect flip flops, beach bags, bug spray, and general chaos. It’s a small but high-traffic zone, and it deserves a little love.
Quick tip: Clear out any seasonal clutter, give the floor a good sweep, and reset it with just what you still need for the rest of the warm weather.
5. The Fridge Freezer
It’s not technically a “summer” spot… but trust me, it needs to make the list. Frozen smoothie packs, popsicles, freezer-burned leftovers – now’s a great time to do a quick scan and toss anything questionable.
Quick tip: Group like items (breakfasts, snacks, dinners), toss what’s past its prime, and wipe down shelves if you’re feeling ambitious.
FAQs
Not at all. Pick one per day (or even one per week!). Small progress is still progress.
Swap in another summer-specific area that’s gotten cluttered – like a beach bag, cooler, summer sports equipment, or summer clothes drawer.
That’s where home habits come in! A few simple weekly rhythms (like my daily reset routine) can keep things running with a whole lot less effort.
You don’t need to organize your whole house to feel better in your space. Sometimes all it takes is one overlooked spot to bring a little order and peace back to your day.
Which one of these areas are you tackling first? Let me know in the comments – I’d love to cheer you on!
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