As fall brings cooler air and cozier vibes, it’s the perfect time to declutter your home. A streamlined space sets the stage for holiday gatherings or a peaceful winter retreat. Start small and focus on the most clutter-prone areas—you’ll quickly create a home that feels both welcoming and easy to maintain.

Start with a Quick Declutter

Grab a box and set a timer for 10 minutes. Walk through your home—entryway, kitchen, bedrooms, even the garage—and collect anything you no longer use, like worn-out summer gear, expired pantry items, or outdated decor. Donate, recycle, or toss the contents right away. This small effort clears space and builds momentum for deeper organization.

Tidy the Entryway

Mudrooms and entryways often attract clutter—shoes, jackets, and stray mail. Sort through summer items and donate anything that no longer fits or is worn-out. Use a basket for gloves and scarves, and place a small tray near the door for keys and mail to keep surfaces tidy. A well-organized entryway instantly makes your home feel calm and welcoming.

Refresh the Living Room

Living rooms can easily become overwhelmed with blankets, books, and seasonal decor. Keep just one or two cozy throws, and store the rest. Clear coffee tables of old magazines, and use a decorative basket to corral remotes. Add a few simple fall touches, like a candle or seasonal wreath, to warm up the space without creating clutter.

Organize the Kitchen

With fall baking and holiday meals ahead, the kitchen deserves some attention. Clear out expired spices and canned goods, and store baking staples in clear, labeled jars. Tuck away rarely used appliances to free up counter space, and designate a drawer for baking tools so you’re ready when the holiday cooking begins.

Transition the Closet

As the weather cools, it’s time to swap out summer clothing for fall favorites. Donate anything you didn’t wear this past season. Store off-season pieces in under-bed bins or on higher shelves. Use slim hangers to maximize space, and add a shoe rack or over-the-door organizer for boots and accessories. A tidy closet makes mornings quicker and less stressful.

Clear the Garage

Garages often become catchalls for summer gear, tools, and forgotten boxes. Group items by category—like sports equipment, lawn care tools, or holiday decorations—and store them in labeled bins or on shelves. Clear the floor to make room for winter essentials like shovels, and recycle or donate anything you no longer need.

Stay Ahead of Clutter

Before storing seasonal items, take a moment to clean or repair them so they’re ready to use next year. Stick to a one-in, one-out rule—whenever you bring something new into your home, remove one old item to maintain balance. You can also use quiet fall evenings to declutter digitally by organizing files, photos, or your inbox.

Decluttering in the fall helps create a home that feels warm, functional, and ready for the season ahead. Whether you're hosting a Thanksgiving feast or enjoying quiet evenings by the fire, an organized space reduces stress and makes your home feel more comfortable and inviting.