As the seasons shift, so do our needs and routines. Decluttering and organizing seasonally can bring a fresh start, help keep spaces functional, and make transitioning between seasons a breeze. Here’s a seasonal guide to help you stay on top of your home and mindset with each new season.
Start with a Seasonal Review
Take a quick assessment of your home and belongings at the beginning of each season. Ask yourself:
- What items did you barely use last season?
- Which areas felt cluttered or chaotic?
- What will you need more of in the upcoming season?
This simple review can give you a roadmap for what to focus on as you move forward.
Declutter First, Then Organize
Before diving into organizing, focus on decluttering. Sort through each area and set aside items you no longer use, need, or love. Remember: the less you have, the easier it is to organize! Categories to tackle:
- Clothes: Rotate wardrobes, storing out-of-season clothing to free up closet space.
- Outdoor Gear: Pack away or bring out seasonal equipment like beach gear, winter coats, or gardening supplies.
- Holiday Decor: As the year progresses, revisit your seasonal decorations. Donate items you didn’t use last year or are no longer your style.
Organize by Season
Once you’ve decluttered, organize by season. Use clear bins labeled for each season, making it easy to swap items in and out as the year goes on. Store bins in accessible areas like closets, garages, or storage rooms for an effortless seasonal change.
Refresh High-Traffic Spaces
Entryways, mudrooms, and coat closets see lots of activity as the seasons change. Keep these spaces functional by:
- Adding or removing items like umbrellas, gloves, hats, and shoes based on the season.
- Installing hooks or small storage bins to make access easy and keep floors clear.
- Adding a small basket or box for quick drop-offs like keys, mail, or pet leashes.
Kitchen & Pantry Reset
Each season brings different foods and recipes into focus. Keep your pantry and kitchen organized by:
- Swapping out ingredients (like soups for winter, salad fixings for summer).
- Cleaning out expired items.
- Rearranging frequently used items for easy access (think cocoa for winter, lemonade mix for summer).
Prepare for Seasonal Maintenance
Organizing seasonally also includes prepping for home maintenance tasks. Use each new season as a reminder to:
- Check smoke detectors, change HVAC filters, and clean gutters.
- Store or pull out seasonal tools (snow shovels, lawnmowers, etc.).
- Schedule tasks like window cleaning, carpet cleaning, and roof inspections to keep your home in top shape.
Create Seasonal Routines for Quick Refreshes
Seasonal organization doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Develop small routines to help maintain order year-round. For example:
Daily habits: A quick daily tidy in high-traffic areas can keep things neat.
Monthly mini-declutters: Tackle a small space each month.
Weekly resets: Take 15 minutes each week to tidy up hot spots (like the entryway).
Embracing seasonal decluttering and organizing is about making your home work for you all year. By taking small, intentional steps, you can welcome each season with a refreshed space and a clear mind.
