5 Areas to Declutter Before Summer

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You may be enjoying those proverbial May flowers after April showers, but where I live in the northern Sacramento Valley, it's already summer.  Temps are edging toward the 90s (low- to mid-30s C) and above, and I don't expect we'll get more rain before mid-October.


So it's definitely time to prepare for summer living, and what better way than a quick and easy decluttering session?  Here are five areas to care for this month.


hummingbird



The get-ready-for-summer declutter guide


1.  Retire the winter wardrobe.

You won't be reaching for layers anymore, so it's time to declutter outerwear, sweaters, long-sleeved shirts, etc.  If you haven't worn a piece in the past six months, it's safe to say you won't miss it next year.  Donate what's still good and discard what you've worn out.


Be sure to include your children's clothing.  Now's the time to give away (or store for your younger child) items that are still in good shape but will be too small next winter.  Check sizes on their summer clothes and shoes and see what purchases you need to make for the warm months ahead.


2.  Prune school projects and papers.

There's no need to wait and let these overwhelm you on the last day of school.  Sort out the best art or academic projects, or take photos of them.  Make sure your child's name and the date are clear.  Add these special pieces to a keepsake box, or use art frames that both store and display your treasures.*


Plan to clean out school backpacks, lunch boxes, water bottles, and the like.  Don't forget sports bags as the school year and athletic seasons come to an end.


*  Thank you for supporting this blog with your purchases.  If you use my links, I may earn a small commission.


3.  Update your summer bathroom and linen closet.

If you haven't done it already, go through last summer's moisturizers, sunscreens, and bug sprays.  Discard those which have expired and stock up on what you'll need for the new season.  It's also a good time to check medications and first aid supplies.  Replace anything past its use-by date, and stock up on allergy remedies, bandages, antibiotic cream, and small ice packs for injuries or heat stress.


Go through your linen closet and donate threadbare towels to the animal shelter.  Be sure you still have two sets (bath and hand towels plus wash cloth) for each family member, plus a beach towel if you plan to visit the pool or seaside.


4.  Prepare your outdoor spaces.

You might already be spending time on your patio or at the park as the weather warms, but this is a good time to be intentional about your outdoor toys, tools, and furniture.  Do you still need all of them?  Remove what's worn out, outgrown, or no longer of interest.  Then:

  • Clean furniture and check pieces for wear and tear.
  • Clean outdoor cooking items and notice whether you need new utensils.
  • Determine if your lawn mower needs maintenance such as blade sharpening or an oil change.
  • Determine if bicycles need adjustment, lubrication, or other care.  Is your child ready for a larger model?
  • Do you need new outdoor cushions, games, or a bird feeder?

Tidy up and get ready for summer fun.


5.  Lighten up indoor décor.

Summer décor is more about subtracting than adding.  You're going for a look that is weightless and cool. 

  • Dust the corners for cobwebs, polish your furniture, and vacuum for a fresh start.
  • Remove area rugs if they've been in place for the cool months, or consider a sisal or other natural fiber rug instead.
  • Wash and store throw blankets, and declutter those that are extraneous.
  • Remove heavy window coverings in favor of some embroidered sheers.
  • Repot houseplants as necessary, and choose two or three vases you'll use for summer bouquets.
  • Hang a mirror or two across from or adjacent to a window to reflect light and views.
  • Add a bowl of fresh fruit to your kitchen countertop or table.

Pre-summer decluttering is fun, because all of the changes will build anticipation for the long days of freedom ahead.




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