The change of seasons is the perfect time to declutter. As winter deepens and temperatures drop, household needs change. Thick coats, snow boots, winter skin care, and holiday decor are just a few of the items that come out of hiding and can be the catalyst for a good outfit change. It’s a good idea to look at items you know and love, as well as items you’re ready to part with. Before that, I spoke to some professional organizers to get their advice on what to declutter before winter. Read on for the only organizational checklist you’ll ever need this season.
Refresh your linen closet
Pull out your flannel sheets and extra blankets to keep your airy summer bedding stowed away for a few months. Founder of Carol Appelbaum luxury professional organizer In Houston, Texas, it’s a good idea to organize your linens when switching to cold weather items. “Winter is the perfect time to organize and donate your unwanted towels, sheets, blankets, etc.,” she says. “By rearranging your closet so you can easily access your favorite winter linens, you can easily create a cozy and cozy bed on cold nights.”
I want to make the bed extra Feeling cozy while cleaning up? “While you rotate your linens, take advantage of the opportunity to launder blankets or fluff them in the dryer,” suggests Appelbaum.
Please check the medicine cabinet
Winter not only brings cold weather, but it also marks the beginning of cold and flu season. Appelbaum suggests decluttering your medicine cabinet. This will give you peace of mind if you or a family member gets sick. “Dispose of expired medications, cough syrups, and supplements safely. Next, stock essential cold prevention items like pain relievers, nasal decongestants, and throat lozenges, and restock as needed.” ” she shares.
A well-stocked medicine cabinet will eliminate the need for last-minute trips to Target when bad weather is possible. Plus, I don’t want to go anywhere when I’m not feeling well. Prepare now in case the disease occurs.
put away holiday items
You should definitely consider holiday decorations as something to put away before winter. Now is the time to organize your decorations and set aside any decorations you are ready to let go of. If you’re looking to declutter your items this December, check out Sarah Dunn Organizing Readysets We encourage you to donate your items as soon as possible. “Most nonprofits and churches want to receive donations as quickly as possible so they can go to families who can use them during this season,” she says. January can bring an influx of holiday donations (and you might even get your donations rejected), so set aside your organized holiday items and wait until next November to donate. Be sure to throw away any broken items, such as decorations or string lights.
Letting go of outgrown holiday items will give you more space to display your favorite decor, making seasonal decorating even more fun. Not to mention, it also makes it easier to store everything.
Let’s review your coat closet
When it gets colder outside, getting there and back may look a little different. Your hallway can be full of things to clear out before winter, and your coat closet can finally be put to good use again. Take some time to organize all your winter outerwear. “Please consider donating coats, scarves and sweaters that no longer fit or are no longer used often,” said owner and organizer Aaron Traub. my professional organizer Say. “Being organized makes it easier to get to your favorite items without having to deal with unnecessary clutter on a cold morning.”
Dan also recommends packing snow gear, especially if you have kids. “Most children run out of winter gear every one or two years, so be sure to donate or sell anything that no longer fits to make room for new gear.” she shares.
organize the pantry
Sitting down with a bowl of soup and some crusty bread is one of my favorite parts of the season. A streamlined pantry makes winter meal prep and holiday entertaining easier. “Checking for expired items and unused food will free up space for holiday baking essentials and staples,” says Traub. “A simple refresh can save you time and frustration during the busy months ahead.”
When organizing your pantry, throw away anything that’s expired and save food that can be donated. “The holiday season is a great time to donate unused, expired, non-perishable food to your local food bank,” Appelbaum points out. When you put items back into your pantry, be sure to categorize them so they’re easy to find. There’s nothing more satisfying than an organized pantry.
Categorize toys and games
“As the holidays approach, it’s a good idea to declutter your toys and games,” says Traub. This time of year is gift-giving season, so preparing your home for a big influx of new items will help you stay organized. “Get rid of anything that’s broken, missing, or that your kids have outgrown,” Traub continues. “This will make room for new gifts and keep things from getting too overwhelming after the holidays.”
Just like adults, kids can feel overwhelmed by clutter and having too many options in front of them at once. Stick with toys that you and your child love. If you’re sorting through items and can’t decide between a toy or a game, put it in the trash and keep it there for a month. If they ask about toys, you can have them available, but if they don’t, it’s probably safer to donate them.
Source: Camille Styles – camillestyles.com
