12 Things to Throw Out ASAP in September, According to Professional Organizers

After a busy summer, September always feels like a natural reset—whether or not your family is headed back to school. As the weather shifts, there's fresh-start energy in the air and a desire to declutter the house. If you're looking for motivation to get organized this fall, pro organizers suggest starting with a purge. From summer clothing and beach reads to excess school supplies, there are a number of things to get rid of in your home in September.

An organized home can help you save time and reduce stress this season. "With the arrival of fall and shorter days ahead, it's even more important to make every moment count," says Lisa Zaslow, founder of Gotham Organizers. "Declutter and store your summer items and make it easier to access the things you'll be using as the weather cools down."

As you sort through your belongings, keep in mind: getting rid of things doesn't necessarily mean throwing them away. When possible, donate items in good condition, whether to a thrift store, local shelter, or donation drop-off.

1

Summer toiletries

Don't blindly pack up summer toiletries before checking expiration dates. "Start with the things that will not make it another season, like sunscreen, bug spray, or aloe gel," says Laura Ellis, founder of Organized by Ellis. "Toss the sandy, half-used tubes that have seen better days."

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2

Excess school suppiles

Now that school has started, sort through items you haven't used. "If you stocked up on markers, crayons, or notebooks during back-to-school sales (I totally do this), but your drawers are overflowing, consider donating extras to your local school, daycare, or YMCA," says Nichole Gehman of Organize by Designe. 3

Summer clothing and swim suits

Donate or toss any summer clothing or swimsuits that didn't get worn this summer. Keep in mind that kids are likely to outgrow their summer clothes by next year, so donate anything that was unworn or fit snugly. "They grow so fast," says Gehman.

4

Sports gear

After a long summer of playing outdoors, it's a great time to organize the shed filled with sports gear. "Sporting equipment—bikes, helmets, swim goggles, cleats—should be inspected, repaired, or replaced before the fall season," says Dr. Regina Lark, founder of A Clear Path.

5

Summer reads

Take a pass through your summer books—whether you read them or not. "Now that books are a click away, they tend to pile up before we can read them," says Maeve Richmond, founder of Maeve's Method. "Send the ones you don't plan to read soon (or ever!) packing—off to a friend, colleague, or book donation organization."

Books can be donated to charities, your local library (just call first to confirm!), or other community organizations.

6

Food storage containers

'Tis the season of packed lunches, so it's a great time to re-evaluate your collection of food storage containers. "Review what you own, then hang onto the ones you'll realistically use during the week—like for lunch or leftovers—and release the rest," says Richmond, who also suggests considering glass containers.

7

Too many beach towels

"Summer has a way of filling our homes with extras," says Lark. "Souvenir cups, freebie water bottles, promotional tote bags, and beach towels multiply quickly—pare them down." Toss any beach towels or summer gear that is damaged and donate any extras. Keep in mind: Animal shelters typically accept used beach towels as bedding.

8

Last year's schoolwork

For families with kids, schoolwork piles up quick. Before you get too overwhelmed by the new school year, "edit or archive children's art and memorable schoolwork from last year," says Zaslow. "Toss random scribbles, worksheets, and used notebooks."

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9

Outgrown or damaged summer gear

Don't put damaged items into storage—you'll regret it next summer. "Say goodbye to worn-out pool floaties, cracked goggles, and broken beach toys, along with flip-flops, sandals, and swimsuits that are stretched out or never got worn," says Ellis.

10

Forgotten pantry items

With school in session, an organized pantry is key. "Go through your pantry—summer cookout condiments, stale chips, and nearly empty cereal boxes often linger longer than they should," says Lark.

11

Faded, dirty, or broken outdoor furniture

Before you pack away outdoor furniture, check for damage—think faded couch cushions, tears in rattan chairs, or rust on metal tables.

12

Fast food extras

"Summer is a season for eating out," says Richmond. "Check your kitchen, cabinets, and car—you may have a pile-up of fast food extras. You know the suspects—plastic forks, napkins, salt and pepper packets, condiments, and straws."

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