Fall is the season of transition. The kids go back to school, the air turns crisp, and your home shifts from breezy summer living to cozy fall nesting. It’s also the perfect time to declutter—before the holidays add more into your home and before winter hibernation begins.

By decluttering now, you’ll free up space, reduce stress, and make your home warm and welcoming for the season ahead. But what exactly should you donate, store, or toss? Let’s break it down with a simple guide.

🧺 Step 1: Summer Clothing & Gear

Donate:

• Clothing that doesn’t fit, hasn’t been worn in two summers, or your kids have outgrown.
• Gently used swimwear, sandals, and summer dresses that still have life in them.

Store:

• Classic summer pieces you’ll wear again (denim shorts, neutral tanks, good-quality swimsuits).
• Seasonal gear like beach towels, pool toys, and camping supplies—pack them in labeled bins so they’re easy to find next year.

Toss:

• Worn-out flip-flops, stretched-out swimsuits, and sunscreen that’s past its expiration date (yes, it matters!).

👉 Why? Storing everything you might use again creates clutter. Let go of what no longer serves you so next summer starts fresh.

🏡 Step 2: Home Décor

Donate:

• Seasonal décor that you’ve outgrown (those bright summer throw pillows or décor you never used).
• Duplicates—no one needs six watermelon platters.

Store:

• Reusable décor items with timeless appeal: lanterns, vases, neutral throws.
• Outdoor cushions and furniture accessories (clean and cover them first).

Toss:

• Faded or moldy outdoor cushions, broken décor pieces, and candles that have burned down to nothing.

👉 Why? Rotating décor seasonally keeps your home fresh without overcrowding storage spaces.

👟 Step 3: Shoes & Accessories

Donate:

• Shoes that still have life but don’t fit your style anymore.
• Hats, belts, and bags in good condition that you never reach for.

Store:

• Summer sandals and lightweight sneakers you’ll want again next year.
• Lightweight scarves and hats that aren’t useful in winter but perfect for spring/fall transitions.

Toss:

• Worn-out shoes with holes, broken straps, or flat soles.
• Accessories that are stained or beyond repair.

👉 Why? Fall is the perfect reset for your entryway or mudroom. Clear the summer clutter so boots and coats have room.

🛋️ Step 4: Linens & Bedding

Donate:

• Extra sheets, blankets, or towels you never use (animal shelters often need them).

Store:

• Lightweight summer quilts and blankets in vacuum-sealed bags or labeled bins.
• Picnic blankets and beach towels.

Toss:

• Torn or stained linens that can’t be reused. Repurpose some as rags if possible.

👉 Why? Fall means cozy bedding—make room for flannels and heavier throws by packing away the summer linens.

🍳 Step 5: Kitchen & Pantry

Donate:

• Duplicate kitchen gadgets or seasonal items you didn’t touch this summer (that extra ice cream maker?).
• Non-perishable food you won’t use (check expiration dates and donate to a food pantry).

Store:

• Summer-specific kitchen items like popsicle molds, BBQ tools, or picnic sets.
• Partyware you’ll use again next year.

Toss:

• Expired condiments (BBQ sauce, marinades, salad dressings).
• Chipped mugs, broken utensils, or storage containers without lids.

👉 Why? A fall pantry reset makes baking and cooking for the holidays so much easier.

🎲 Step 6: Toys & Hobbies

Donate:

• Toys kids have outgrown or don’t play with anymore.
• Sports equipment in good condition but no longer used.

Store:

• Seasonal gear like pool noodles, squirt guns, or soccer nets.
• Hobby supplies you’ll revisit (camping gear, fishing kits).

Toss:

• Broken toys, puzzles with missing pieces, dried-up markers.

👉 Why? Fewer toys and hobby items mean more room for cozy indoor play and holiday crafts.

🧥 Step 7: Fall/Winter Prep Closet

Before you bring out the heavy coats, boots, and scarves, make space by following this simple formula:

Donate:

• Coats that no longer fit or flatter, gently used boots, extra hats and gloves.

Store:

• Keep transitional layers like lightweight jackets handy for unpredictable fall weather.

Toss:

• Gloves without pairs, broken zippers, or outerwear that’s beyond repair.

👉 Why? You’ll enter the season with a closet full of pieces you actually love and wear.

🍁 Final Thought

Decluttering in the fall is like giving your home a breath of fresh air before winter sets in. By deciding what to donate, store, or toss, you’re not just creating space—you’re setting yourself up for a calmer, cozier, and more intentional season.

Think of it as clearing the stage for what really matters: time with family, cozy evenings, and holiday memories.