Declutter To Reinvent: Cat Coluccio
It’s time for some seasonal decluttering tips.
We’ve just hit autumn down under – my most favorite season – and in a few weeks, it will be spring in the northern hemisphere. Whichever season you are heading into, this time of year is the perfect opportunity to refresh your home, clear out the clutter, and create a space that feels calm and inviting. Whether you’re stepping into spring sunshine or embracing crisp autumn mornings, reorganizing your environment can boost productivity, reduce stress, and help you feel more in control.
10 Smart Seasonal Decluttering Tips For This Season:
Not sure where to start? These 10 smart decluttering and organizing tips will help you reset your space as well as your mindset for the new season ahead!
1. Start with a “Clutter Hotspot”:
Instead of trying to tackle your entire home at once, focus on one clutter hotspot first. Whether it’s your kitchen counter, your entryway, or that irritating junk drawer that seems to have a life of its own – I’m yet to discover someone who doesn’t have a clutter hotspot! Small wins here will build momentum and keep you motivated when you see how your day to day living is improved when you aren’t losing time or your good mood, trying to locate your keys or wallet!
“Seasonal decorations and special-occasion outfits are exceptions, but most items that sit unused for a year won’t be missed.”
2. Use The “One-Year Rule”:
Haven’t used it in a year? It’s time to let it go! Be honest with yourself about whether you truly need or love each item. Seasonal decorations and special-occasion outfits are exceptions, but most items that sit unused for a year won’t be missed. I personally go through my wardrobe at the beginning of every season, and can proudly say that I am quicker to act this autumn, having already sent some dresses over to Australia for my sister in law, as well as having a bag of clothes here ready to donate, and another full of worn out items that need to be tossed.
3. Declutter With A Timer:
Seriously, nothing works better for my competitive nature than a timer! Finding yourself dragging your feet to get started? Try setting a 20-minute timer and you’ll be amazed how much you can accomplish. This technique helps you avoid burnout while still making steady progress. It also turns decluttering into a fun, fast-paced challenge instead of a daunting, never-ending slog.
4. Digitize What You Can:
Paper clutter is one of the easiest things to accumulate. Scan and store important documents digitally instead of keeping piles of papers, receipts, and old notes. Apps like Google Drive or Evernote can help you stay organized without the paper mess. You may need to allow yourself a bit of time to get set up, but once you have a system in place, you will fly!
5. The “Use It Or Lose It” Rule:
If you have multiple skincare products, pantry staples, or office supplies sitting unused, challenge yourself to use them up or toss if they have expired, before buying anything new. This helps reduce clutter and prevents waste. I especially apply this to my wardrobe by using the “one in, one out” rule.
6. Maximize Hidden Storage:
Decluttering isn’t just about removing items—it’s also about storing essentials efficiently. Use under-bed storage, vertical shelves, and multi-purpose furniture to create more space without making your home feel cramped. Combine this with the rule that if it doesn’t fit, you don’t keep it, and your home will feel tidy and uncluttered all year around.
7. Create a Drop Zone:
Designate a specific area for everyday items like keys, wallets, and bags. A small tray or wall hooks by the door can make a huge difference in reducing clutter and making your daily routine smoother. This used to be a real sore spot between my husband and I, as he would often leave piles of coins, keys and mail on the kitchen bench. Once I established a dedicated drop zone, peace was restored! These days, we’ve gone one better with a ‘His and Hers’ drop zone that works well and keeps us both happy.
“Designate a specific area for everyday items like keys, wallets, and bags.”
8. Stop “Just in Case” Thinking:
Holding onto items “just in case” is one of the biggest clutter traps. If you’re keeping something for a situation that rarely happens (or never has), consider donating or selling it. Chances are, you won’t need it—and if you do, you can usually find a replacement when the time comes.
9. Make a “Maybe Box”:
If you’re struggling to part with certain items, put them in a box, label it with today’s date, and store it out of sight. If you don’t reach for anything in the next few months, you’ll know it’s safe to donate. This is a fabulous option that helps you break through decluttering stalemates when the clock is ticking, but you are torn between keeping or tossing an item. If that box doesn’t get opened over the next 12 weeks, don’t even bother going through the contents again – just get it out the door!
10. Celebrate Your Progress:
Decluttering isn’t just about getting rid of stuff—it’s about creating a home that feels good to you. Once you’re done, take a moment to enjoy your refreshed space. Treat yourself to a small reward, like fresh flowers or a cozy candle, to mark the occasion.
By decluttering and reorganizing now, you’re setting yourself up for a season of ease, clarity, and inspiration. Let go of what no longer serves you and step into a space that supports your best life!
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About the Author:
Cat Coluccio is a qualified Educator, Personal Trainer and Life Coach – and a champion of midlife women. She is the host of the Rocking Midlife® Community and Podcast, and the author of a number of books, including 21 Hacks to ROCK your Midlife. Join my FREE 30 Day Love your Home Decluttering Challenge for 30 days of email prompts to help you fall in love with your home once more!
Cat is passionate about helping midlife women create fulfilling and purposeful lives yet understands how challenging it can feel to consider reinvention when your world is already so incredibly full. Hence she firmly believes that the first step to building the life that you desire in your next season, is to declutter and create space right now – be that physically, mentally or digitally.
10 Tips to Simplify your Life is a workbook Cat wrote to help break the feeling of overwhelm that clutter brings – and even better, it is her FREE gift to you. Download your copy and start simplifying your life today! Available >>>> HERE <<<<
