10 THINGS TO DECLUTTER BEFORE SUMMER BEGINS

Summer’s coming and with it, longer days, lighter evenings, and (hopefully) a little more fun and relaxing time. But before you fling open the windows and fire up the BBQ, let’s talk clutter. Because nothing kills that fresh summer feeling like a drawer full of junk or a cupboard bursting with plastic containers that have no lids.

Whether you’re prepping for guests, gearing up for a move, or just want a calmer, more organised home for the sunnier months ahead, these tips will make a big difference.

👉 If you’re planning a bigger summer switch-up, don’t miss my blog on 10 Tips to Organise Your Home for Summer.

*This post may contain affiliate links which don't cost you a penny but pay a small commission to this site and help keep my coffee fund topped up. Thank you!

What to Declutter Before Summer: Easy Wins That Lighten Your Home

1. Winter Coats & Bulky Jumpers

If you didn’t wear it this past winter, you probably won’t next year. Wash, fold, and pack away what stays. I use these vacuum storage bags from Amazon - they save space and keep everything protected. If you are keeping clothes due to weight fluctuations then be kind to yourself and store what you need, but only for one more year - then let it go!

2. The Junk Drawer

Yes, that one. Now I am all for a junk (Monica) drawer but only if it serves a purpose. Check it isn't just your go to "throw it in as it has no other home" space. Empty it completely, toss the rubbish, and use these drawer organisers to keep the good bits in order.

3. Out of Date Toiletries & Sun Cream

Sun cream expires and once opened shouldn't be kept for more than 12 months. Let’s be honest as well - some of those travel minis have been knocking about for years. Recycle what’s old and put the rest in a clear bag ready for summer holidays. I keep my hand luggage/security clear zip log bag ready to go in my suitcase.

As an aside, when next in a hotel, think twice before grabbing all the freebies unless you absolutely will use them!

4. Garden Tools & Outdoor Bits

Before the garden becomes your go to hangout spot, do a sweep. Broken tools? Mouldy cushions? Bin or replace now. I love this storage bench for hiding garden items you are keeping.

5. Plastic Food Containers

Match lids to bases. Anything that does't match can be thrown. Then upgrade with a set of stackable BPA-free containers that won’t drive you mad. The glass ones are fantastic as you can cook in them also and then put a lid on to store in the fridge or freezer.

6. Fridge & Freezer Audit

Get honest about what you’re actually going to eat. Bin the ice lolly from 2021 or the bag of you are not even sure what it is anymore. Use a freezer inventory pad to keep it simple going forward.

7. Worn Out Shoes

Out with the broken sandals and “maybe one day” heels. Give your hallway some breathing room with a tidy shoe rack.

8. Expired Medications & First Aid

It’s a job no one enjoys, but so worth doing. Take five minutes to bin anything expired and restock plasters, allergy tablets and after sun. If it is prescribed medication then take back to the chemist/pharmacy for them to safely dispose of.

9. Books & Magazines

Pass along anything you’re done with and tidy the rest. I keep seasonal mags in a magazine file and donate what I won’t re read. Hospitals, free giving sites and friends are great outlets.

10. Old Picnic & BBQ Gear

Test coolers to check they are not leaking, clean BBQ tools, and ditch the cracked plastic plates. Treat yourself to a cute melamine picnic set you’ll enjoy using all season.

💡 Bonus Tip: Do one of these each day for 10 days and you’ll be amazed at the difference.

Now that you are all ready for summer, here is a great blog with summer hosting party ideas in your gorgeous decluttered home from Good Housekeeping UK.

Let me know which space you’re tackling first - or tag me in your photos!

Thanks for reading, I'm Jo, a Professional Organiser for 20 years and your new partner in creating an organised home. 

Based in Petersfield, Hampshire but covering Surrey, West Sussex and London (upon individual request basis).

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I help busy professionals, families and home movers, organise and declutter their homes, paperwork and photographs.

Please share this blog with anyone you think may also enjoy it 💞 

Love, Jo x