Declutter Before The Holidays: 31 Things to Purge in October

Why October Is the Best Month to Declutter

The crisp shift into October is more than just pumpkin spice and cozy sweaters—it’s the unofficial start of the holiday season. Before the whirlwind of family gatherings, seasonal décor, and endless to-do lists hits, October offers the perfect window to reset your home.

Decluttering now means:

• You’ll create space for seasonal decorations (without it feeling overwhelming).
• You’ll prevent stress and chaos when guests arrive.
• You’ll feel calmer, lighter, and more intentional heading into the holidays.

Think of it as your fall reset. By focusing on 31 manageable things—one for each day of the month—you’ll build momentum and finish October with a home that feels lighter, cozier, and truly ready for holiday cheer.

The Psychology Behind a Pre-Holiday Declutter

Decluttering isn’t just about tossing out clutter. Studies show that clutter can increase cortisol (the stress hormone), impact sleep, and make you feel mentally “stuck.” October decluttering, specifically, gives you:

• Seasonal Clarity: You’re making space not only for décor but also for seasonal foods, gifts, and traditions.
• Financial Awareness: Tossing unused items reminds you of what you already own, helping you avoid wasteful holiday spending.
• Wellness Boost: Clean, clutter-free environments support better focus, rest, and even digestion (yes, your environment affects your gut health!).

This isn’t about minimalism or perfection—it’s about setting the tone for a calmer, more intentional season.

31 Things to Purge in October (With Purpose)

Instead of a random “toss this” list, here’s a meaningful breakdown of items that weigh you down and why purging them now matters.

Week 1: Kitchen Reset (Because holiday cooking is coming!)

1. Expired pantry items – Check dates on canned goods, spices, and baking supplies. Donate unopened, safe extras.
2. Duplicate utensils – No one needs 4 spatulas. Keep the best, donate the rest.
3. Chipped mugs and glasses – Upgrade to a cozy, fall aesthetic.
4. Old plastic containers – Especially if they’re stained or lid-less. Swap for glass.
5. Expired teas & coffee – Fresh brews = fresh mornings.
6. Worn dish towels – Replace with seasonal or fresh ones.
7. Unused small appliances – That bread maker you swore you’d use? Time to pass it on.

✨ Result: You’ll free up space for holiday baking, cooking, and cozy drinks.

Week 2: Closet + Wardrobe Transition

8. Summer clothes you never wore – If it didn’t leave the hanger, let it go.
9. Worn-out shoes – Especially sandals and sneakers past their prime.
10. Old coats – Donate to local shelters before the cold hits.
11. Accessories you never reach for – Scarves, hats, or bags that don’t spark joy.
12. Mismatched socks & underwear – Start the season fresh.
13. Jewelry you don’t wear – Minimal, intentional pieces = less stress.
14. Costumes or seasonal wear from past years – Make space for new memories.

✨ Result: A cozier, easier-to-navigate wardrobe that makes fall layering stress-free.

Week 3: Living Spaces (Where guests will gather!)

15. Old magazines & catalogs – They add clutter and dust.
16. Throw blankets past their prime – Keep the cozy ones; donate the rest.
17. Decor you no longer love – Especially seasonal items shoved in bins.
18. Books you won’t re-read – Donate to libraries or gift them forward.
19. DVDs or CDs you never touch – Go digital, free your shelves.
20. Board games with missing pieces – Either complete them or release them.
21. Dead plants (yes, really) – Fresh greenery brings new energy.

✨ Result: A living room that feels inviting and uncluttered, perfect for hosting.

Week 4: Bathroom + Self-Care Reset

22. Expired medications – Safely dispose of them.
23. Old makeup – Most has a shelf life of 6–12 months.
24. Half-used hair products you don’t love – If it’s not serving you, it’s taking space.
25. Empty bath products – Or nearly empty bottles that clutter shower corners.
26. Worn bath towels – Keep 2–3 per person; donate the extras.
27. Duplicate nail polish colors – Choose your cozy fall shades.
28. Travel-size samples you’ll never use – Donate or toss.

✨ Result: A spa-like bathroom that feels fresh, not chaotic.

Week 5: The “Hidden Clutter” Zone

29. Junk drawer extras – Pens that don’t work, old chargers, random screws.
30. Holiday décor that no longer sparks joy – Don’t carry it into another season.
31. Paper clutter – Old bills, flyers, receipts. Scan what matters, recycle the rest.

✨ Result: A calmer, lighter entry into the holidays with only the things you actually want.

How to Make Decluttering Stick

Decluttering isn’t about creating a perfect Pinterest-ready home. It’s about building a rhythm:

• One drawer at a time – Don’t overwhelm yourself.
• Set 15-minute timers – Quick wins add up.
• Create a donate box – Keep it in sight until it’s full, then drop it off.
• Celebrate small progress – Notice how your home feels after each purge.

The Holiday Payoff

By the end of October, you’ll notice:

• Less stress – Everything has its place.
• More space – For decorations, gifts, and cozy gatherings.
• A better mindset – You’ll enter November with clarity, not chaos.

Decluttering in October is really about gifting yourself peace before the busiest time of the year.