Can you believe it’s time for Spring Cleaning already? The stores are filled with pastels and Easter eggs for this weekend, the weather is finally starting to warm up and I saw my first ladybug the other day. It might not feel like it every day just yet, but Spring is here and with that, comes the urge to deep clean and reorganize our homes. At least, for me it does…and based on my conversations with my clients, I’m not the only one.
When the seasons change, especially to warmer temps and sunshine, it’s not unusual to want to tackle ALL of the projects. Clean out the garage? Yes, please. Go through the car wash? Yes, please. Take 4 carloads to the donation center? YES. Please. At Simplify In Style, we feel you. But, we also understand that there aren’t necessarily enough hours in the day and you probably want to spend these beautiful days doing something more fun, like reading the new Rachel Hollis book in a lawn chair or playing tag with your kids.
That being said, your life will be thousands of times easier if you spend a small portion of your spring cleaning time decluttering and preparing for the summer months ahead. Let’s simplify and break this down into two categories: 3 items to declutter and 4 things to bring out of hibernation:
Items to declutter or put away —
Kids Toys and Seasonal Gear
If you have kids, you know how easy it is to feel like toys have taken over your life. In order to keep your sanity level at its highest, we recommend putting away anything that’s out of season, which will make room for activities that DO make sense for the season. Items like sleds, ice skates, skis, etc. should be put into storage, as well as any gear that’s specific to winter weather such as snow suits, snow boots, etc. You might not be able to think of many, but do a quick walk-through of your house and vehicle. You might be surprised what you find.
Winter Weather Essentials
I think it’s safe to say that we won’t be experiencing anymore snowstorms this winter and to say I’m thankful is an understatement! The crazy winters here in the midwest mean we may need easy access to winter essentials such as an ice scraper, sidewalk salt, and shovels. But, not in the summertime! Go ahead and box those babies up, along with any other snowy tools, and put them into hibernation until next fall!
Wardrobe
Last but not least, higher temps mean a different wardrobe! Store away items such as sweaters, fleece lined leggings, and hats/scarves/gloves. While you’re at it, separate anything that doesn’t fit, has lost its shape or you just don’t like it anymore and take them to the donation center! One rule I like to live by is, if I didn’t wear it AT ALL this winter season, it probably means I won’t be wearing it next winter season, either. Go ahead and sell those items, if you wish – or donate as well.
What to take out–
So, you’ve now decluttered anything and everything winter-related by either trashing, donating, or storing. Great job! The last step in preparing for Spring and Summer is to get out these four things:
Spring Wardrobes
Outdoor Toys (bubbles, water tables, sports equipment, etc.)
Outdoor Furniture
Grilling Equipment
Give each of these a thorough wipe-down because they’ve certainly gathered some dust during their long winter’s nap. Make sure you’ve got great storage systems in place and ta-da! You’re ready for a fantastic, fun-filled summer!
If all of this feels overwhelming, it’s OK. You’re not alone. My advice is to break it down into bite size projects. Set some time aside to do one thing each week and you’ll be ready for summer in no time. I know I work best on a deadline, so I love to schedule things like this, and other spring cleaning tasks in my calendar. Having an “appointment” scheduled insures that I’ll not only have the time for it, but also that I won’t forget! If you’re looking for more time management hacks and tips check out this blog post on creating routines for busy moms or this one about deciding which type of calendar is best for you.
We love connecting with our readers, I’d love to hear from you! What’s your favorite thing to bring out of hibernation for spring and summer? Do you have any other Spring Cleaning rituals?
You can tell us in the comments and you can also find daily organization tips on Instagram at @SimplifyInStyle. Happy Spring, friends!
