Autumn is the perfect time to be thinking about clearing clutter and letting things go, just like the trees let go of their leaves. In this article I’m sharing 10 autumn decluttering projects to get your home cosy and calm for the season ahead.
READY FOR SOME AUTUMN DECLUTTERING?
There’s something about the arrival of autumn that makes us all want to retreat indoors and get cosy. The days get shorter, the air turns crisp, and suddenly, we’re swapping out summer dresses for chunky knits, and our minds shift to comfort. It’s also the perfect time to declutter and get your home feeling fresh and cosy for the cooler months ahead.
You may have heard it before, but there’s a wonderful saying…
“Autumn shows us how beautiful it is to let things go.”
So, perhaps it’s time for you to let a few things go too. If so, read on!
10 AUTUMN DECLUTTERING PROJECTS
Whether you’re wanting to create a more peaceful space or just want to get things organised before the holiday season sneaks up, I’ve got 10 super simple decluttering projects that will make your home feel fresh, cosy, and totally autumn-ready.
1. Swap Out Your Wardrobe
Let’s start with one of the most obvious (but often neglected) areas: your wardrobe. Summer’s gone, and let’s face it, you probably won’t be needing those sundresses, sandals, or straw hats for a while. Take this opportunity to pack away any summer items and make space for all your autumn and winter essentials.
Go through your clothes as you switch them over – if you didn’t wear something this summer, ask yourself if you’re likely to wear it next year. If not, maybe it’s time to donate it. Keep your cosy jumpers, coats, and scarves easily accessible, and get rid of anything that no longer fits or suits your style. Vacuum storage bags are great for storing summer items out of the way until next year!
2. Declutter Your Entrance Hall
Autumn brings in muddy boots, wet coats, and plenty of falling leaves that seem to sneak in through the door. It’s easy for your hallway or entrance area to become a bit of a dumping ground this time of year. Take some time to sort through any shoes, bags, and coats that have accumulated.
Keep only what you’ll use regularly – a good pair of wellies, your comfiest boots, and a coat or two. Everything else can be stored elsewhere. A nice basket for scarves and gloves is a great idea, as it keeps everything organised and easy to grab on your way out.
3. Pantry Purge
Autumn is a time for hearty soups, stews, and comfort foods. So, why not get your pantry in order to make cooking a breeze? Start by clearing out any expired items (many of us have a jar of something we bought two years ago, thinking we’d use it!).
Sort through your tinned goods, spices, and grains – making sure everything is in date and that you know what you’ve got. Then, group similar items together: cereals in one area, baking supplies in another, etc. This not only helps you stay organised but makes it easier to find things when you’re whipping up those cosy autumn meals.
4. Clear the Bookshelves
Autumn is perfect for curling up with a good book. But I wonder how many of us have shelves filled with books we’ll never read again? If your shelves are overflowing, now’s the time to declutter.
Go through your books and donate or sell any that you didn’t enjoy or know you won’t read again. Keep only your favourites or ones you’ve been meaning to read. This creates space for new autumn reads and gives your shelves a more organised feel that’s nicer to look at too.
5. Sort Through Blankets and Throws
Blankets are an autumn essential our house! There’s nothing better than snuggling up on the sofa with a warm throw and a hot drink. But if you’ve got a pile of mismatched or old blankets that you never use and are taking up space, it’s time to declutter.
Go through your blankets and keep the ones you love – the softest, cosiest ones. Any that are worn out, too small, or no longer fit with your decor can be donated or repurposed (old blankets make great pet bedding!). Fold and store them neatly in a basket or cupboard for easy access when you need to get cosy.
6. Declutter the Kitchen Counters
With autumn’s arrival, you’ll likely be spending more time cooking up warming dishes. But nothing gets in the way of enjoyment and creativity in the kitchen faster than cluttered counters. If your kitchen worktops are full of gadgets you barely use, it’s time to tidy up.
Keep only the essentials on the counters – the kettle, toaster, and maybe the coffee machine. Everything else can be stored away in cupboards if you have space, making your kitchen feel more open and easier to clean. A clear counter equals a clear mind, and you’ll find cooking so much more enjoyable!
7. Streamline Your Bathroom
As the weather cools down, you’ll probably be reaching for more lotions, creams, and bath products to keep your skin feeling soft and hydrated. But before you stock up on new products, take a moment to declutter the ones you already have.
Go through your bathroom cabinets and drawers, and toss anything that’s expired or that you don’t use. Streamline your skincare and beauty products to just the essentials, and organise them in a way that makes it easy to grab what you need. A decluttered bathroom feels more like a mini spa – perfect for those luxury autumn pampering sessions when it’s dark and cold outside!
8. Tackle the Linen Cupboard
If your linen cupboard is bursting with old towels, mismatched bedding, bedding that doesn’t fit your beds right now, and threadbare sheets, now’s the time to declutter. Go through everything and keep only what you use regularly. Old or worn-out items can be donated (some animal shelters accept old towels) or recycled.
Once you’ve decluttered, fold everything neatly and organise it by category – one shelf for towels, another for bedding. You’ll thank yourself later when you’re not digging through a mountain of linens to find a matching pillowcase.
9. Declutter the Office or Workspace
Whether you work from home or just have a little space for bills and paperwork, it’s important to keep your workspace clutter-free. A tidy desk can make you feel more focused and productive, which is especially helpful as the autumn months bring a natural slow-down in energy.
Sort through any old papers, notebooks, or stationery, and only keep what you need. Invest in some storage solutions to keep things organised, and make sure your desk is clear and inviting. A cosy workspace can make even the gloomiest autumn day a little brighter!
10. Refresh Your Living Room
Finally, autumn is all about creating a space where you can relax and unwind. Your living room is probably where you’ll be spending most of your evenings, so take some time to declutter and cosy it up.
Remove any unnecessary items from shelves, tables, and surfaces, and keep only the things that add warmth and comfort – think candles, books, and a few decorative items that make you happy. Add some extra cushions, throws, and maybe even some fairy lights to create the perfect cosy autumn retreat.
CONCLUSION
Autumn decluttering doesn’t have to be overwhelming. In fact, it can be quite satisfying once you get going. By tackling these small, manageable projects, you’ll create a home that feels warm, welcoming, and perfectly suited to the season. Plus, by the time the holiday chaos starts creeping in, you’ll already have a clutter-free, organised space to enjoy! Happy decluttering!
Have you got any autumn decluttering projects that you’d add to this list? I’m always on the lookout for new ideas so please leave a comment at the end of the article. I’d love to hear from you!
There are many other ways you can declutter your home and life and let things go that no longer serve you. Here are a few more articles which you might enjoy:
Bea
Sunday 29th of September 2024
I always rearrange my living room furniture at this time of year. I do it so the radiators aren't hidden by furniture and the room can be warmed more efficiently. (During the warmer months they're not on so they don't damage the furniture). This gives the room a refresh and signals the start of the cosy, colder months.
Balance Through Simplicity
Sunday 29th of September 2024
Hi Bea, I love this idea. Not only practical but as you say, it gives the room a different vibe too. Thank you for sharing that and for reading!