11 Things You Should Toss by the End of Summer
Even if we don`t want to confess it, Autumn is around the corner and we should make the best out of our last summer days. However, things should not be melancholic or nostalgic – you had your summer break, you spent a great time with your friends and family and now it`s time to make some more space for new memories and adventures...and storing your Autumn gear. Spring cleaning is vital but getting rid of some clutter before the cold months approach is of the same importance. Start the new work year with a house free of unnecessary items and things you no longer intend to use. Let`s start!
Running shoes – if you are a passionate jogger, the soles of your shoes have definitely worn out during the summer. The heat and hundreds of kilometres of jogging probably left their imprint on your running shoes. The constant workout smell is most likely to never leave them as the bacteria which causes it is deeply embedded in the fibres. If you are not a jogger but enjoy doing sports like basketball or tennis and even aerobic dance, the lifespan of your shoes is up to 60 hours performing these activities. Say goodbye to your running shoes and get yourself a new pair!
Old makeup – to begin with, clean your whole makeup kit. Inspect your makeup supplies and check the expiration dates. If you can`t find any, try to bring to mind when was the time you bought it or start using it. Lipsticks can last up to several years but mascaras should be replaced twice a year. The same goes for eye pencils – they accumulate a lot of bacteria so try replacing them as often as possible. Plus, you will have more room for your new supplies!
Carpets – alright, we are not saying that you should replace your carpet every year when the summer is over but just think about that – when did you get your rug? 5 years ago? Give your home a new colour! Or at least consider professional carpet cleaning as your rugs definitely need some freshness after the long summer days!
Old tupperware – even if you don`t want to accept this fact, your favourite containers also have a lifespan. After the intense usage all summer long, they probably have accumulated odours and grimes that can`t be removed. Consider throwing them away or upcycle them - make a new food bowl for your pet or store nuts and bolts or other tiny pieces that may be cluttering your attic.
Expired medications – in the same way you checked your makeup bag, you should clear out your medicine drawer and replace some of the drugs. Be careful as some medications require special handling.
Old boxes – unless you are living on rent and you are about to perform an end of tenancy cleaning and you need to put all your stuff in them, toss them. There are so many other alternatives to store your possessions without taking so much space like boxes do. Plus, storing things in boxes is not the most efficient way – shoe organisers, vacuum bags and portable closets are better options to have your home organised!
Clothes you never wear – be it summer or winter clothes, there is probably a pile of clothes you no longer wear. In order to make more space for your Autumn collection, get rid of them now. Decide which are still wearable so you can donate them. Don`t hesitate to toss any worn out flip-flops and sandals – grin and bear it, you and they had a great time together but they no longer look presentable.
Worn beach towels – instead of taking space on the shelves, consider donating them to a local animal shelter. They can be used for lining cages, bathing pups and cleaning up messes.
Air conditioner filters – through the hot summer your air conditioner served you good. Now it`s time to take care of it and clean or replace the filters for the upcoming season. It will endure a lot of work during the winter so keep it in a good state!
Old appliances – if you no longer use a tablet or you don`t remember when exactly did you buy your microwave, consider donating them. Get new appliances and recycle those that are no longer in a working order. You will free up a lot of space once you get them out of your home!
Old spices – in the end of summer, a smart move is to declutter your kitchen, especially your spice rack. Since you will be cooking a lot more in the winter and have time to make delicious meals, you will need fresh spices. Dry herbs have a flavour for a year but if you don`t remember when did you put them in the drawer, better replace them!
The end of summer is the perfect time to clear out your home of these things and figure the needs and necessary products for your household! Autumn is around the corner – make sure the summer clutter is thrown away by the time the season has arrived!