7 Things to Toss Over Labor Day Weekend for a Tidy Home

We hate to be the bearer of bad news, but Labor Day is almost here. Are you excited for fall and looking to use that extra long weekend in a productive way? Why not spend a few hours decluttering and organizing? That doesn’t mean you need to get rid of everything in your house, but it’s a smart use of your time. Here’s what to declutter over Labor Day Weekend.

Pantry Goods

Did you end up spending a lot of time at Costco this summer? Then your pantry probably needs a good decluttering, according to Kenzie Harkey, founder of Simply Dare and professional organizer. “Declutter your pantry to ensure you have no expired or spoiled food taking up unnecessary space,” she says. “This will make room for new groceries as you prepare for more at-home meals this fall.”

Refrigerated Items

The fridge can end up being an abyss of lost leftovers. Whether it’s that new yogurt flavor you never ended up trying (and now it’s expired) or that lone piece of broccoli in a container you probably should have just thrown out, there’s a lot that needs to go. “It’s so easy to lose track of food in fridges that are stuffed with lots of food, leftovers, and condiments,” explains Harkey. “It’s a good idea to declutter and clean your fridge quarterly to ensure it’s fresh and not harboring any extra bacteria.”

Command Center Clutter

Get the kids ready for school early by getting your command center clutter-free. “As the school year begins, make sure you are resetting your command center, which typically houses a family calendar and mail drop zone,” she says. “When this area is clutter-free, you will have peace of mind knowing that you’re starting a new school year on the right foot.”

Coats, Backpacks, and Shoes

Your entryway and entryway closet could probably use a good decluttering, too. “Entry closets are often used to store coats, backpacks, shoes, and possibly cleaning supplies, pet supplies, or stroller gear if you have young children,” says Harkey. Get rid of anything ill-fitting or no longer worn.

Medicine Cabinet Products

Do you truly need that last drop of sunscreen, especially when it’s expiring next month? If you’re going on a decluttering spree, go all the way and do it right. Check your bathroom for expired products, almost-empties, and things you tried this summer but perhaps you didn’t like, such as that stinky bottle of bug spray. 

Summer Gear

Did you notice a hole in your pool float? Why is it still in the garage? Did your kids finally outgrow their goggles? Give them away or put them in the trash. Those worn-out beach towels have also seen better days. Don’t wait until Memorial Day to get rid of broken, old, or no longer useful summer gear.

Damaged Clothes

Did you spill wine on your favorite white shirt? Is there no hope for it? You may just need to say goodbye. That tennis dress that ripped when you fell during pickleball? Get rid of it and replace it during that big Labor Day sale. You should also declutter unwanted sweaters, jackets, and other fall clothing. While this might be a challenge, the good news is that you’ll end up with extra space for new things.