Simple, Fast Action Items Every Homeowner Can Do
As the year winds down, many homeowners think about fresh starts, clean spaces, and healthier routines. One of the easiest ways to set the tone for the new year is by decluttering. The good news? You don’t have to tackle your entire house to make a big impact.
Here are five quick, high-impact areas you can declutter before the year ends—no full-day cleaning marathon required.
1. Expired & Unused Pantry Items
Pantries fill up fast—especially after months of grocery runs and occasional impulse buys.
Take 10 minutes to:
- Toss expired canned goods, spices, and snacks
- Remove items you know you’ll never use
- Wipe shelves and reorganize by category
A cleaner pantry makes meal prepping easier and reduces food waste.
2. Bathroom Products You Forgot About
Bathrooms attract clutter without us noticing:
Half-used bottles, old toothbrushes, empty containers, and products that didn’t work out.
Quick decluttering wins include:
- Disposing of expired medications (follow local guidelines)
- Throwing away old skincare, makeup, and hair products
- Replacing worn-out towels and washcloths
This instantly makes your bathroom feel fresher and more luxurious.
3. The “Drop Zone” Near Your Entryway
The entryway is one of the most overlooked spaces—and also one of the fastest to declutter.
In just a few minutes, you can:
- Donate or toss old shoes no one wears
- Remove junk mail and paper piles
- Organize keys, umbrellas, and everyday essentials
- Put seasonal items into storage
A clean entryway makes your home feel more welcoming right away.
4. Closets Filled With “Someday” Items
Clothing clutter is common, especially when we hold on to things we might wear "someday."
Here’s what to declutter quickly:
- Clothes that no longer fit
- Items you haven’t worn in a year
- Worn-out shirts, socks, or undergarments
- Single shoes or broken accessories
Bonus tip: Create a donation bag and keep it in your closet to make decluttering easier all year.
5. Old Papers & Random Junk Drawers
We all have that drawer—or two—that collects batteries, cables, receipts, pens, and mystery items.
Before the year ends:
- Recycle old documents you no longer need
- Toss broken or non-working gadgets
- Sort chargers and cables (label them if needed)
- Clear out expired coupons or warranty papers
This small area often makes the biggest difference.
Decluttering Doesn’t Need to Be Complicated
Focusing on these five areas gives your home an instant reset without overwhelming your schedule. A cleaner, more organized environment helps reduce stress, improves your daily routine, and prepares your home for a fresh start in the new year.