Oh, sweet summertime; I can feel you coming this way! The season that gives us the freedom to live a little lighter. As we excitedly shed our sweaters for tank tops and boots for flip flops, it’s important to help your spaces feel a little lighter too. The seasonal shift is a natural time to reset and refresh your home. This is also a perfect time to prepare for the influx of traffic in your spaces (hello pantry) with the kids home from school. So let’s dive into simple decluttering and organizing projects that will have your home feeling breezy and ready for sunshine and fun!
Seasonal Switch Out
Now is the time to pack away your bulky winter wear. You likely won’t be needing those heavy coats and snow boots anytime soon. Remove them from your closets and store them away to open up your closet space and make room for your summer clothing. Use labeled bins or vacuum bags to store your items in. Place those bins or bags on a high shelf or use the space under the guest bed for storage. This helps free up your main closet space.
Pro-tip ~ Have a donate bag or box ready as you switch out your wardrobes. If you haven’t worn an item all winter, it’s time to let it go!
Eating Lighter
Summer seems to bring with it a menu filled with lighter dishes. Simple and fresh are the themes and you may enjoy more outdoor cooking. Do a quick sweep of your kitchen, fridge and pantry to declutter and make room for summer favorites. Toss any expired items or anything that is opened and won’t be used. Bring the picnic and grilling items front and center for easy access. Create a summer snack station in your pantry for the kids to easily grab and go while they are home during the day.
Pro-tip ~ Don’t forget to check those easily overlooked, often forgotten about shelf condiments in the fridge!
Tame the Catch All
Your garage likely serves many purposes outside of simply parking your car. The summer season tends to bring with it more outdoor equipment that finds itself hanging out on your garage floor. First things first – declutter and remove anything broken or no longer useful. The best way to maximize this space is to sort everything by category and create zones. Think gardening, sports equipment, outdoor toys and lawn care. Vertical storage is the best friend of a garage. Use organizing products like hooks, shelves and labeled bins to maximize your storage space and clear your floors.
Pro-tip ~ If your garage serves double duty as the main entrance into your house, create a drop zone with labeled bins for each family member to place all their summer essentials.
Hello Outside
The warm air and sunshine beckon us outside to play, relax or entertain. Check your outdoor living spaces for anything that is broken or simply not used. Last year’s toys may not hold the same excitement for your kids. Those planters you got from the clearance shelf in the winter may not work well for your space after all. Donate anything you can, and repurpose or discard the rest. Use storage solutions made for outdoor weather to keep all of your items dry and in good condition. If you have children, invest in an outdoor toy box they can toss everything in when they are finished playing. You will love this when it’s time to cut the grass!
Check out our Guide to Patio Design for even more outdoor space tips!
Remember decluttering and organizing your home is not about perfection. It’s about creating room and space for you and your family to enjoy all of the fun of summer and beyond. When your space is clear, your mind is too and you are able to fully immerse yourself in all the special moments!
If you need a hand decluttering and organizing your home, we’re here to help!
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