🍂 Get Ready for Fall: Declutter + Reset Your Home After Summer
As summer winds down, many of us find ourselves surrounded by the aftermath of a busy, sun-soaked season—half-used sunscreen bottles, scattered outdoor gear, and closets bursting with warm-weather clothes. The transition to fall is the perfect time to reset your home and routines.
Here’s a simple, feel-good plan to help you declutter and get organized before the cooler months settle in.
1. Do a “Summer Sweep”
Before pumpkin spice and cozy blankets take over, give summer a proper send-off by clearing out what’s no longer serving you.
Toss or donate worn-out sandals, broken beach toys, or summer gear that didn’t get used.
Sort seasonal items like swimsuits, picnic supplies, or camping gear. If it wasn’t used this year, ask yourself if it deserves space until next year.
Wash and store summer essentials like coolers, towels, and sports equipment in clear bins or labeled totes for easy access next season.
This step creates space now—so you’re not shoving fall coats into a closet still full of pool floats and flip-flops.
2. Transition the Entryway or Mudroom
Fall brings rain, leaves, and muddy boots. Refresh your entry zone to keep your home cleaner and more functional.
Swap out beach bags and sun hats for umbrellas, raincoats, and baskets for hats and gloves.
Add a doormat inside and outside to catch dirt before it tracks in.
Designate drop zones for school backpacks, mail, or keys so they don’t pile up in random places.
A streamlined entry helps your space feel more peaceful the moment you walk in.
3. Check in with Wardrobes
Cooler weather means different clothing—and a great opportunity to simplify your closet.
Pack up summer clothes you won’t need for a while. Store them in breathable bins or under-bed bags.
Donate what didn’t get worn. If it sat untouched all summer, it might be time to let it go.
Bring out fall clothing and take stock. Does anything need replacing or mending before the weather turns?
Bonus: This is also a great time to size-check kids’ clothing and outerwear before school starts or the first cold snap hits.
4. Reset High-Traffic Spaces
Summer often means loose routines and clutter creep. Give your kitchen, bathroom, and living areas a quick tune-up:
Pantry & fridge: Clear out expired summer snacks and make room for fall staples like soups, teas, and baking supplies.
Bathrooms: Toss sandy bath toys or half-used sunscreens, and stock up on moisturizing products as air gets drier.
Living room: Rotate out lightweight throws or summer-themed décor for warmer textures and calming tones.
A seasonal refresh helps your home feel intentional and supportive for the months ahead.
5. Create a Cozy, Organized Fall Vibe
Fall is all about nesting. Make your space feel ready to support rest, comfort, and focus.
Set up reading nooks, candle corners, or cozy zones that invite you to slow down.
Add storage baskets or bins for blankets, slippers, or seasonal books.
Check lighting: With less daylight, now’s a great time to add soft lamps or check lightbulbs in main areas.
Your home doesn’t have to be magazine-perfect—just aligned with how you want to feel this season.
6. Prep for Fall Schedules
A little organization now can save you stress later.
Review calendars for school, holidays, or upcoming travel so you’re not caught off guard.
Create command centers or whiteboards to track family activities, meals, or tasks.
Make a donation drop-off plan to remove items you decluttered instead of letting them sit in the trunk for weeks.
Fall can be full and fast-paced. A few simple systems can help it feel manageable.
Final Thoughts
Fall is a season of transition—and your home can support that shift. By taking a little time to let go of summer clutter and reset your space, you’ll create more calm and clarity heading into the busy months ahead.
And remember: you don’t have to do it all at once.
Even one small area—like clearing the entryway or rotating the wardrobe—can have a big impact. If you need help getting started or want a partner in the process, I’m here to support you.
