Home Organizing 7 Things to Get Rid of Every Fall Here's what to declutter right now without a second thought. By Katie Holdefehr Katie Holdefehr Instagram Website Katie Holdefehr is the associate editorial director at Real Simple. Real Simple's Editorial Guidelines Updated on July 22, 2022 Share Tweet Pin Email Photo: Getty Images We all know the start of spring is a great time to get our homes in order, but autumn is another opportunity to assess what we own and declutter before the winter nesting season begins. It's a great time to make sure your spice cabinet is ready for winter baking and purge outdated summer dresses or swimsuits rather than store them. Plus, by getting rid of items you no longer need, you free up space for holiday decor and family activities in the winter. Just think, with the dining table (finally!) cleared off, you'll have room for cozy family dinners, jigsaw puzzles, and craft projects. Here are the things to get rid of before winter begins. How to Declutter Every Room in Your Home—Fast 01 of 07 Old Halloween Costumes Once Halloween is over, sort through that collection of getups from previous All Hallows' Eve celebrations. You might want to keep basics that can be reused, like a witch's hat or cloak, but toss any specific costumes you or your kids are unlikely to wear again. If they're in good condition, you may be able to disinfect and donate them. 02 of 07 Expired Spices Before you start roasting vegetables and making mulled wine, we have some news: Your spices are most likely expired. Expired spices are generally harmless, but they do lose flavor. Take a minute to sort through your spice cabinet so you can enjoy more delicious meals in the winter. RELATED: 6 Ways You Can Use Your Expired Spices 03 of 07 Exercise Equipment You Never Use If you switched from working out at the gym to exercising at home, you should know exactly which workout gear you truly use. Is that yoga mat or folding treadmill still collecting dust in the closet? It may be time to let it go and focus on the workouts to which you can genuinely commit. 04 of 07 Summer Makeup If you switch to foundation or powder that's a shade more sun-kissed during the summer months, consider getting rid of these cosmetics before winter arrives. It may be tempting to keep them for next year, but old makeup can become a breeding ground for bacteria. RELATED: A Complete Guide to Makeup Expiration Dates—and How Often to Replace Every Toiletry You Own 05 of 07 Worn-Out Beach Gear Make room in the garage or attic by ditching broken umbrellas and beach chairs. Donate tattered beach towels to your local animal rescue. 06 of 07 Outgrown Toys Let's face it: If your kids haven't played with that toy truck, doll, or train set in over a year, they've officially outgrown it. Decluttering the toy chest now means they'll have room for new presents during the holiday season. 07 of 07 Outdated Gowns and Formal Wear With the most popular wedding season (summer) in the past, it's a good time to check your stash of formal dresses or outfits. It may be time to ditch anything you haven't worn in several years or that no longer fits. If you have a collection of dresses you'll never wear again but are in good condition (yes, all those bridesmaid dresses), consider donating them to your local Goodwill or Salvation Army. Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! Tell us why! Other Submit