Fall Clean-Out

Each fall I go through the ritual of decluttering, donating, and cleaning. This fall clean-out is something refreshing and gets the house ready for the holidays. We gratefully pass on some items that we no longer need to someone that can make good use of them. The benefits impact my family by teaching generosity, kindness, and contentment. I always feel amazing once the decluttering is finished, and donations have been made. So grab a few boxes, and join me.

Let the purge begin

To begin the purge, sort out the laundry and go through the clothes. Remove any items that need replacing. Donate any items in good condition that aren’t being used. Toss out, or recycle worn-out clothing. Consider making blankets out of old clothing to donate to a shelter. It can be a great family project!

Pick two rooms a week and spend 15 minutes a day decluttering that space. I like to start in my closets. Turn all clothes on the hangers so that the hook faces you. When you do laundry put the clothes back on the hanger the correct way. Once two months have passed consider donating any items that have not been worn. Donate shoes that aren’t being used. Take an inventory of your bedding, and towels. Do you need new items, or do you have too many? 

A heart of giving

Fall is a great time of year to talk to kids about needs in the community. Many families struggle around the holidays. Your fall clean-out can be used to help children become active givers. After engaging children with the topic give them a couple of boxes, and encourage them to fill them with things they no longer need or use.  Consider giving them a small amount of money for each box they fill. They can save up, donate, or purchase something new with it. In addition to encouraging them to clean-out unused items, it helps foster a heart for giving.

Get ahead of the mess

Two times a day have a 15-minute family clean-up time. Each person pitches in and cleans together. If four people clean for 15 minutes twice a day that is equal to two hours of cleaning time.

Fall Cleaning Checklist

There are several items that should be serviced in the fall. Now is a great time to stop and make sure you have properly prepared your home for the winter months.

• Service furnace and change filter
•  Vacuum and launder the drapes (check cleaning instructions)
• Clean out the cabinets.  Remove old spices, vitamins, teas, expired items, and medications.
• Gutters
• Brush and vacuum carpets, or schedule yearly cleaning.
• Check CO2 and fire alarms, and change batteries if needed.
• In the kitchen wipe down the cabinets, clean under the sink, and remove/donate excess dishes, or tools not being used. Pull out appliances and clean behind them.
• Clean light fixtures
• Wash windows
• Clean the fireplace and schedule a chimney cleaning.

Once all the donations have been made, the clutter is gone, and your home is decorated for the holidays, don’t forget to get the carpets and upholstery cleaned. There is nothing quite as relaxing as cuddling up in a blanket and reading a book, in a clean, cozy home.