10 Things to Throw Out in October, the Beginning of Holiday Season Decluttering Fun
As October rolls in, it’s easy to notice how quickly the holidays sneak up. Suddenly, the house feels a bit more crowded with stuff you haven’t used in ages.
With the days getting shorter and cooler, it’s a natural time to look around and see what you can clear out. Getting a jump on decluttering now means less chaos when guests, gifts, and decorations start piling up.
Expired spices and seasonings
Take a peek in your pantry and you’ll probably spot a few spice jars you forgot about. Spices don’t really spoil, but they lose flavor and strength over time.
If you can’t remember when you bought them or they smell weak, it’s probably time to toss them. Whole spices last longer than ground, so check which ones you have.
Before throwing them out, consider using old spices for homemade potpourri or air fresheners. For cooking, though, fresher spices will make your holiday meals taste so much better.
Old holiday wrapping paper
Leftover wrapping paper can pile up fast, especially after a few holiday seasons. Some rolls get crumpled, torn, or just take up space.
If the paper is damaged or you know you won’t use it, let it go. Keeping only the nice sheets will make wrapping gifts much less stressful.
Small scraps can be handy for protecting fragile ornaments in storage. If you’re feeling crafty, turn leftover paper into gift tags or party decorations.
Worn-out kitchen towels
Kitchen towels work hard every day and it shows. After a while, they get stained, frayed, or just plain worn out.
Old towels can hang onto germs and don’t do their job as well. Swapping them for a few fresh, soft ones keeps your kitchen cleaner and more inviting.
You don’t need a dozen—just enough to rotate while some are in the wash. Clearing out the old ones gives you more space and makes the kitchen feel less cluttered.
Broken or chipped mugs
It’s easy to let chipped mugs linger in the back of the cupboard. They might have sentimental value, but they can leak or even cause cuts.
If you’re not ready to throw them away, turn them into planters or holders for pens and craft supplies. Just make sure to smooth out any sharp edges before using them for something new.
Upcycling can be a fun way to give old mugs a second life and add a creative touch to your space.
Unused candles from last year
Candles left over from last year can lose their scent or collect dust. Some might look melted or smell off after months in storage.
If they’re no longer enjoyable, it’s okay to let them go. Melting leftover wax to make new candles can be fun, but if you’re not up for it, clearing them out makes room for fresh scents this season.
A few new candles can make your home feel cozy and ready for guests.
Expired pantry goods
Pantries are notorious for hiding expired cans, snacks, or baking ingredients. October is a great time to check those dates and clear out anything past its prime.
Oils, nuts, and dried herbs can go stale faster than you think. If something smells off or tastes strange, it’s time to say goodbye.
Making space now means you’re ready for all the holiday baking and cooking ahead.
Old makeup and beauty products
Makeup and beauty products don’t last forever. Old mascara, lipstick, and foundation can dry out or change texture.
Expired products can cause skin irritation or just not work as well. Toss anything that smells odd or you haven’t used in months.
Some stores offer recycling programs for empty containers, which is a nice bonus.
Torn or stained table linens
Tablecloths, napkins, and placemats can get stained or torn over time. When they look too worn to use for guests, it’s okay to let them go.
Old linens can be cut up for cleaning rags, so nothing goes to waste. If you have nice ones you don’t use, consider donating them.
Fresh linens make your dining space feel more inviting for holiday meals.
Outdated magazines and newspapers
Stacks of old magazines and newspapers can pile up quickly. They take up space and collect dust, even if you plan to read them “someday.”
Go through your pile and recycle what you don’t need. If there are articles you want to keep, snap a photo or save them digitally.
Clearing out old papers frees up space and helps your home feel lighter.
Faded or uncomfortable throw pillows
Throw pillows can start to look faded or feel lumpy after a while. When they lose their shape, they can drag down the whole room.
Replacing them with a few new ones, or just fresh covers, can instantly update your space. Choose colors or patterns that fit the season to make your home feel more cheerful.
If you’re feeling creative, use fabric from old pillows for a DIY project like framed wall art.
Tips for Letting Go of Sentimental Items
Letting go of things with memories attached can be tough. Start by asking if the item still fits your life and brings you positive feelings.
If it just causes stress or takes up space, it might be time to let it go. Limiting yourself to one box or drawer for sentimental items can help you focus on what really matters.
Sometimes, writing down why an item was important can help you keep the memory without keeping the clutter.
Mindful Ways to Say Goodbye
Letting go of things can feel surprisingly emotional. Sometimes it helps to slow down and really think about what an item has meant to you.
You might want to thank an object for its time in your life. Snapping a photo can be a comforting way to remember something without keeping it around.
Passing things on to someone else can feel good, too. Donating items gives them a chance to be useful or loved by someone new.
If you feel like it, saying a few words or writing a goodbye note can help you process your feelings. Take your time and move at a pace that feels comfortable so you can honor your memories.
