It’s October, and you can feel it in the air. The days are getting shorter, the sweaters are coming out, and the urge to cozy up at home is strong. Before the holidays sweep in, this is the perfect time to do a little fall clearing so your home feels calm and welcoming for the season ahead.
If you haven’t already, you might like my post on how to actually enjoy the holidays this year. It’s a gentle reminder that a little planning (and a bit of decluttering) can make the holiday season so much more peaceful.
What to Declutter in October
1. Entryway and Mudroom
This is the first place everyone walks through, and it sets the tone for your whole home. Put away summer sandals and beach towels, clear out broken umbrellas, and hang only the jackets your family actually wears. A tidy entryway helps everyone breathe a little easier the moment they walk in.
2. Kitchen Surfaces and Small Appliances
The kitchen gets busier in the fall with baking, soups, and hearty meals. Clear off your counters so there’s room to cook and enjoy it. If you haven’t used that gadget in months, store it or donate it. Keep out only the things that earn their spot every day.
3. Living Room Corners and End Tables
As you bring in cozy throws and fall candles, take a minute to edit what’s already there. Remove anything that makes the space feel crowded. Fewer accessories mean your cozy layers stand out and your living room feels peaceful instead of cluttered.
4. Guest Linens and Bedding
If you’ll have guests this season, now’s the time to pull out those extra sheets and blankets. Wash what you’ll use and donate any extras that are worn or unused. It’s one less thing to think about when company’s on the way.
5. Blanket Baskets and Candles
Fall is all about comfort, but even cozy things can pile up. Keep only your softest, most-used blankets and candles that actually smell good when lit. The rest can go. Your home will still feel warm and inviting without the excess.
How to Get Started
You don’t need to spend all weekend decluttering. Choose one area at a time and set a timer for fifteen minutes. You’ll be amazed how much lighter your home feels with just a few focused sessions.
If you need a little structure, download my 15-Minute Declutter Plan. It walks you through simple daily tasks that make real progress without overwhelm.
FAQs
Aim for small, consistent bursts. Even 15 minutes a day can completely change how your home feels by the end of the month. If you’d like a plan that walks you through it step by step, grab the 15-Minute Declutter Plan.
Start with your own things or shared spaces you manage most. Once they see how nice it feels, they’ll usually follow along. If you want help creating momentum that sticks, the Calm Happy Spaces Workbook can guide you through exactly that.
You can! In fact, I find decluttering makes decorating so much easier. When you clear the clutter first, your favorite fall touches shine.
More Monthly Declutter Checklists
October is your perfect decluttering month. Clear the clutter before the holiday rush and make room for warmth, calm, and connection. A little effort now will make the next few months so much easier and more enjoyable.
If you’re ready to go beyond a quick refresh and finally feel calm in every room, my Calm Happy Spaces Workbook will walk you through 31 days of simple, doable tasks to clear the clutter for good.
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