Spring cleaning may be behind you, but June is the perfect time for one more reset. With changing routines, kids finishing school, and warmer weather encouraging more time outdoors, clearing out a few overlooked items now can make your home feel more organized and easier to manage for the months ahead.
Instead of tackling your entire house, focus on the things that have outlived their usefulness. These nine decluttering projects can free up valuable space and help you start the new season with less clutter.
Kids’ School Supplies and Backpacks
The end of the school year is the perfect opportunity to empty backpacks, lunch boxes, and pencil cases. Toss old papers, dried-out markers, broken crayons, and forgotten snacks, then wash everything so it’s ready for next year.
Stacks of Children’s Schoolwork
Artwork, spelling tests, and worksheets can pile up quickly over the course of a school year. Save a few meaningful keepsakes, photograph oversized projects, and recycle the rest to prevent paper clutter from taking over your home.
Grilling Tools You Never Use
It’s easy to accumulate multiple spatulas, grill baskets, skewers, and specialty barbecue gadgets over the years. If certain tools haven’t been used in several seasons, donate them and keep only the equipment you actually use.
Swimsuits You Never Wear
Most people reach for the same one or two swimsuits every year, while the rest sit untouched in a drawer. If a swimsuit no longer fits, feels comfortable, or makes you feel confident, donate it or recycle it and make room for the ones you actually wear.
Expired Medications
Take a few minutes to check expiration dates in your medicine cabinet. Safely dispose of expired medications, ointments, and first-aid supplies, then restock any essentials you’ll want readily available year-round.
Summer Gear That Didn’t Make the Cut Last Year
Before buying anything new, take inventory of your beach towels, pool floats, coolers, folding chairs, and outdoor toys. Donate or discard anything that’s broken, worn out, or didn’t get used last year, so you’re not storing unnecessary items for another season.
Expired Sunscreen and Bug Spray
Sunscreen and insect repellent lose effectiveness over time, especially if they’ve spent months in a hot garage or car. Replace expired bottles so you’re not relying on products that may no longer offer adequate protection.
Related: 9 Plants That Repel Mosquitoes Better Than Bug Spray
Damaged Food Storage Containers
Open the cabinet where your food containers live and match every lid with its container. Recycle cracked containers, stained plastic, warped lids, and anything missing its match to make everyday meal prep far less frustrating.
Worn-Out Sandals and Flip-Flops
Shoes that have flattened soles, broken straps, or little support aren’t doing your feet any favors. Let go of pairs that are beyond repair and keep only the footwear you’ll actually reach for throughout the warmer months.
