Spring cleaning: what experts donate first
As the days lengthen and warmer weather beckons, spring brings a welcome opportunity to declutter. But where does one begin? Professional organizers reveal exactly what to purge to create a lighter, more functional Home.
Unclaimed holiday dishes and swimwear take priority
The holiday season often leaves behind a trail of forgotten serving ware. Certified Professional Organizer Mindy Godding suggests allowing a couple of months for owners to claim their items before donating them. “It always amazes me how many dishes and serving items can be left behind after a big party, and almost always without any identification,” she explains. Similarly, it's time to assess your swimwear. Expired sunscreen, ill-fitting suits, and faded towels should find a new Home.
Beyond the obvious, experts advise tackling aspirational clutter – those unused items bought with good intentions. Yarn for a knitting hobby never started? A tennis racket gathering dust? Spring is the perfect moment to realistically evaluate what’s adding value and what’s simply consuming space. “Spring is all about renewal, and it’s a great time to get honest about what’s adding value and what’s just taking up space,” says Michelle Urban, founder of The Organized House.
Pantry and cleaning supplies need a once-over
With fresh produce returning, it's a good time to refresh your pantry. Mindy Godding recommends discarding expired baking mixes and heavy holiday treats. Donating non-perishable items to a local food bank is a simple act of renewal. Cleaning supplies also warrant a review. If a product hasn’t been used in a year, is expired, or simply isn't a favorite, it's time to let it go. However, be sure to research proper disposal methods for certain chemicals.
Old water bottles are another prime candidate for the donation pile. Ensure you have all the parts before passing them on. The season’s sporting events mean a demand for functional bottles with lids. Tracy McCubbin, founder of dClutterfly, emphasizes the power of this seasonal reset.