I’ve often talked about how decluttering doesn’t have to be hard, yet it is still overwhelming to a lot of people. I decided that if I broke it down into smaller segments it might be more manageable so I’m starting a month by month declutter challenge. Don’t worry, it will be super simple and quick. If you think it will be overwhelming for you my first advice would be to get a friend or family member to be accountable to. Work on your decluttering list together. We’ll start out small with our decluttering in July since family vacations and school breaks can make it a little harder to find the time. Are you ready?
Decluttering in July
- Water Bottles – Check the water bottles for any leaks, ones that are too small or too large for you to carry comfortably, or have missing parts. It’s time to get rid of those. If you can upgrade to insulated water bottles I would suggest doing that since they keep the water at a constant temperature in warm weather.
- Luggage – Get rid of any luggage or duffle bags that no longer fit your needs or need repair. I like to keep one piece of luggage for each family member. Store smaller pieces of luggage inside larger pieces.
- Socks – You know all those mismatched socks? It’s time to get rid of them.
- Flip Flops – It seems like every Summer our flip flops multiply over night. Get rid of any that are in poor condition or aren’t the right size.
- Coolers – Having a couple coolers of different sizes isn’t a bad idea but evaluate which ones you actually use. You can also store smaller coolers inside larger ones.
- Camp Chairs – Get rid of any chairs that are torn or broken. Use a bungee cord to secure any chairs that no longer have a case.
- Outdoor Toys – Any deflated balls, broken toys, skates that are too small, and toys that are no longer played with should be discarded or donated to someone who will use them.
- Plastic Dishware – I like to keep plastic dishware for the kids lunches and snacks but they can start looking dingy and scratched. Get rid of ones that are impossible to clean.
- Fast Food Condiments – If you have a whole drawer full of condiments it might be time to get rid of them. They don’t last forever so if you want to keep a few use a sharpie to write the date on the container and only keep it for a couple months.
- Sunscreen – Sunscreen is usually only good for a year. If you have some from previous years they might not be as effective as you need them to be. Just start fresh with a new bottle.
- Party Supplies – Leftover party supplies are fun to use again but if you only have one of something and one of another they will probably never be used, so it might just be time to toss them. Or you can gather them all together and use them when you don’t feel like doing dishes.
- Summer Holiday Decor – If you haven’t used your holiday decor for a few years it’s time to get rid of the ones you aren’t going to display. Why store things that you aren’t using and someone else might enjoy?
- Backpacks – Any backpacks that have tears or broken zippers should be tossed. They won’t be able to carry the weight and supplies they need to if they aren’t in good shape.
- Car Glove Box – Clean out any expired papers or insurance cards, fast food condiments, extra straws and plastic utensils, etc.
- Baseball Caps – Keep the favorites and donate the rest. Decide as individuals and within your family how many you will keep.
That’s it for July! That wasn’t too hard was it. I’ll have the new challenge up the beginning of August.
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