Fall Organizing To Simplify Your Home And Life For A Cozy Season

Doing some fall organizing in your home and life is the perfect opportunity to embrace a new season with a fresh mindset and set the tone for a cozy, clutter-free season and living an intentional life. 

Getting organized in the autumn is all about making your home and life feel more simple and ready for the months ahead. From creating a warm, hygge lifestyle to easy organizing ideas for small spaces, this guide is meant to help you tackle fall organization in a way that feels manageable.

You probably don’t need to do everything on this list, and that’s fine! It’s meant to be a set of ideas from which you can create your own fall must-do list. Ready to feel more organized? Keep reading!

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Why Fall is the Perfect Time to Get Organized

Fall is the ideal time for getting organized at home because it provides a natural transition from the heat of summer into a slower, more reflective season. The cooler temperatures and earlier sunsets encourage us to nestle in and prepare our homes and routines for the colder months ahead. Whether you’re welcoming back-to-school routines or planning for cozy seasonal gatherings, the shift to fall is a great time for a reset.

Fall organization sets the tone for the rest of the year. By decluttering, cleaning, and resetting your home, you’re preparing both your space and your mind for a peaceful and productive season. 

Declutter and Refresh for a Cozy Fall

Decluttering in the fall offers an opportunity to reset your home and get rid of items that no longer serve you. The concept of fall decluttering is about creating more space, both physically and mentally, as you move into a season of coziness and warmth. Think of it as a fall reset – a fresh start to close out the previous season and embrace the next.

• Start Small: Choose one area to begin, such as your entryway or kitchen counters, and declutter the visible spaces first. It’s amazing how much more open a room feels when surfaces are clear.
• Things to Declutter: In the fall, it’s time to get rid of old summer clothes and unused summer gear. As you prepare for fall, focus on creating space for your cold-weather essentials.
• Minimal Autumn Decor: Swap out summer decorations for simple, cozy fall touches. Embrace a hygge minimalism style by keeping only a few key decor pieces like candles, throw blankets, and warm-toned cushions.

Mini Declutter Challenge:

For each room in your home, remove 5 things that you no longer need or love. Whether it’s expired food from the pantry, summer accessories from the closet, or paperwork piling up, this challenge will help create more space for a tidy home aesthetic.

Related post: Fall Decluttering: 12 Things To Declutter Every Single Autumn

Fall Cleaning and Home Maintenance

Deep cleaning your home in the fall is an essential part of fall cleaning and organizing. The shift from summer to cooler months means your home needs a little extra TLC to stay cozy and clean. If you never got around to spring cleaning, then fall is the perfect time of year to get your home sparkling.

CLICK HERE to have the free printable fall organizing checklist sent right to your email.

You’ll want to take care of things like:

• HVAC Maintenance: Replace air filters and get your heating system checked to ensure it’s running efficiently for the colder months.
• Gutter Cleaning: Clear out your gutters to prevent water damage during fall rainstorms. 
• Fall clean up should include trimming bushes, raking leaves, and storing outdoor furniture to keep your yard looking tidy.
• Fall Lawn Maintenance: Aerate your lawn, apply fall fertilizer, and plant fall flowers or shrubs to ensure your yard is ready for the winter months. These steps will also set you up for easier lawn care in the spring.

• Bedding: If you switch out bedding for the cooler season, you’ll want to make sure the summer linens are clean before storing. 
• Windows: Wash windows to let in all the beautiful fall light. Clean the blinds and curtains too if possible – they can get dirty and dusty with all of the summer activity and open windows.
• Floors: Vacuum and deep clean carpets to remove summer dust and dirt. For hardwood floors, give them a good sweep and polish.

Make it easier on yourself by using a cleaning checklist printable to track your progress and keep things organized. Grab my printable Essential Cleaning Planner for printable lists to help keep you on track for fall deep cleaning and maintenance.

Organizing Small Spaces for Maximum Cozy

Fall is all about creating and enjoying cozy, welcoming spaces throughout your home. But when you’re working with smaller spaces, like your bedroom, entryway, or kitchen, it can feel challenging to maintain both comfort and order. Smart solutions will help you maximize every inch of your space, creating a home that’s both functional and ready for the season.

Bedroom: Maximize Comfort and Space

Your bedroom should be a peaceful retreat, especially as the colder months roll in. If you have a small bedroom, thoughtful fall organization is key to maintaining that cozy feeling without letting clutter creep in.

Tips for organizing small bedrooms:

• Tidy the Nightstands: Winter means early nights in bed reading, so make sure your nightstand has clear space for books or your kindle, reading glasses, a water bottle, and maybe a notebook or journal.
• Use Vertical Space: Vertical storage is your best friend in small bedrooms – especially when you can increase your closet storage capacity to keep clutter out of your main space. Install shelves or use over-the-door organizers to clear floor space and keep items within easy reach.
• Under-Bed Storage: Use under-bed storage bins for seasonal clothes, extra linens, or shoes. This allows you to free up closet space while keeping things out of sight but easily accessible. I use these zippered storage containers, but if I had just a bit more height under my bed I would use these plastic rolling bins.
• Minimal Autumn Decor: Swap out your bright summer colors for rich, warm fall tones. You might change out your entire bedding ensemble, or simply add a cozy throw blanket for that warm fall aesthetic. Remember, when it comes to decor in small spaces, less is often more.

Related post: Declutter Your Bedroom Like a Minimalist by Ditching These 4 Items

Entryway: Tidy and Functional for Fall

Your entryway is the first thing you see when you walk into your home, and a cluttered space here can cause unnecessary stress. Even in a small entryway, it’s possible to create an organized, welcoming area.

Tips for organizing a small entryway:

• Designate Drop Zones: Use hooks or a small wall-mounted organizer to hang coats, bags, and scarves. A small shoe rack or baskets under a bench keeps shoes contained and out of the main walkway.
• Fall Entryway Decor: Add a touch of fall coziness with a simple fall wreath, a rustic basket for umbrellas, or a small pumpkin by the door. These small touches give the space an autumn feel without clutter.
• Command Center: Set up a simple ‘command center’ with a small tray for keys, a bin for mail, and hooks for items like dog leashes or reusable shopping bags. This keeps your entryway tidy and functional without taking up much space.
• Outdoor Gear: If you have space, add a mat and boot dryer for wet shoes and boots. We use ours all.the.time during wet weather.

Related post: Our DIY Farmhouse Style Entryway – My Favorite Home Improvement Project!

Kitchen: Efficient and Cozy Cooking Space

Your kitchen is the heart of the home, but it can also be a clutter magnet, especially during the fall and winter when cooking and baking pick up. Kitchen organizing in small spaces is essential to keeping things tidy while making your kitchen a joy to work in.

Tips for fall organizing kitchens:

• Counter Clutter Control: Keep your countertops as clear as possible. Only leave out items you use daily, like your coffee maker or toaster. If it’s visually appealing to you and doesn’t feel cluttered, use wall-mounted racks or magnetic strips to store knives and utensils, freeing up drawer space.
  I know, I know… it feels like the kitchen counter is ideal for all.the.fall.decor. It’s not. Limit the decor so you have space to work!
• Cabinet Maximization: Add shelf risers, pull-out bins, or lazy susans inside your cabinets to maximize storage and make accessing your cooking essentials easier. This is especially useful when stocking up on fall ingredients.
• Pantry Declutter: Use fall as an opportunity to reorganize your pantry. Throw out expired items and rearrange your shelves for easy access to fall staples like baking supplies, teas, and spices. Use clear containers or baskets to maintain a clean, organized look.
• Clean the Dishwasher: Fall is the perfect time to give your dishwasher a thorough cleaning. Run a cycle with vinegar to remove buildup, then clean the filter and wipe down the interior. This small task will prepare your kitchen for using more dishes during cool-weather cooking.
• Clean your Oven: Okay, you might do this all the time. It’s just not that high on my priority list. But on a nice cool day in the fall, it’s great to open the windows and get that oven clean so you’ll be ready for fall baking and making delicious fall dinners.
• Seasonal Switch: If you’re the type of person who rotates dishes and coffee mugs on a seasonal basis, now is the time to do that. But while you’re at it, maybe do some decluttering… do you really need 10 mugs for each season?

Related post: 25 Things To Declutter In The Kitchen (And 3 Unexpected Items To Keep) 

Although not completely necessary, as the weather cools down and comfort food takes center stage, creating a seasonal meal prep station can make your kitchen more functional and help streamline your cooking routine.

• Dedicated Fall Pantry Space: Set aside a shelf or section in your pantry specifically for fall staples like canned soups, spices, and baking ingredients. Group everything by category – this makes meal planning easier and ensures you always have the right ingredients on hand for your cozy, seasonal dishes.
• Slow Cooker and Soup Station: Set up a small area in your kitchen for frequently used fall items like your slow cooker, soup pots, or dutch ovens. Having these easily accessible encourages you to cook warm, hearty meals without having to dig through cabinets every time you need them.
• Freezer Prep: Consider spending a day batch-cooking soups, casseroles, or other foods and ingredients that can be frozen for later. Store them in labeled containers for easy, nearly ready-made meals during your busy times. Organize your freezer with bins for different types of meals, making it easy to grab what you need.

Small Living Room: Create a Cozy Gathering Space

For those with small living rooms, it’s crucial to balance comfort and functionality, especially as we move into fall, when you’ll likely be spending more time indoors. A cozy living room should offer both a place to relax and practical storage solutions.

Tips for organizing a small living room:

• Multifunctional Furniture: Use furniture that doubles as storage. Coffee tables with storage space underneath or ottomans that open up for blankets are perfect for keeping extra fall items out of sight but easily accessible. We purchased these side tables a couple of years ago and I love the storage in a small space!
• Cozy, Minimal Decor: Embrace minimal autumn decor to avoid overcrowding your space. A few fall-scented candles, a cozy throw, and a couple of seasonal pieces of artwork can instantly transform the space into a warm, inviting area without overwhelming it.
  Notice I didn’t say ‘throw pillows’ – I’m not a fan of something that usually ends up tossed on the floor or that you have to move every time you sit down or get up. But if they work for you, then a single seasonal throw can look super cute.

Related post: Cluttered Living Room Solutions: Tips For Organizing Your Space

Bathroom: Simple and Clean Fall Refresh

Fall is the perfect time to refresh your bathroom and give it a clean, tidy look that works with your morning and evening routines.

Tips for organizing small bathrooms:

• Over-the-Door Racks and Hooks: Hang towels, robes, or even baskets on the back of your bathroom door to free up floor and counter space. I have a towel rack similar to this one and it’s worked great for us, especially during the many years when four of us shared the same bathroom.
• Countertop Declutter: Keep only daily essentials on the counter. If you don’t have a vanity with drawers, get a freestanding drawer unit that can hold all the things which usually clutter up the counter.
• Streamline Products: How many shower and beauty products do you ACTUALLY need and use? Admittedly, I’m pretty low-maintenance when it comes to this stuff, but our shower holds the smallest number of products necessary: my razor and shower poof, my husband’s back scrubber, a bar of soap, and a combo shampoo/body wash pump bottle. Fewer things to knock onto the shower floor, fewer things to move when it’s time to clean, less stres. 
• Minimal Decor: Add a small, fall-themed piece wall art, a hand towel, or a soap dispenser to subtly incorporate fall without adding clutter.

Organizing for Fall and Winter Prep

As the weather cools down, fall organizing is all about setting yourself up for a smooth transition into the colder months. By prepping now, you can avoid the last-minute scramble when winter arrives. These fall organizing ideas will help you stay ahead, so you can enjoy a stress-free season.

School Paper Organization

With school routines back in full swing, it’s easy for paperwork to pile up. A simple system for school paper organization can keep you from feeling buried in homework, permission slips, and newsletters.

• Create a Paper Hub: Dedicate a spot in your home for school papers—whether it’s a file box, a set of trays, or a few labeled binders. Keep one folder for completed assignments, one for important school documents, and one for any upcoming deadlines. This way, nothing important gets lost in the shuffle.
• Weekly Paper Purge: Set aside time each week to go through papers. Toss anything you don’t need, like graded homework or old school flyers. (Go through your mail at the same time.) Keeping up with this routine prevents clutter from building up.
• Color-Coding for Families: If you have multiple kids, color-code their binders or folders for easy access. This simple hack makes it quicker to find what you need.
• Fridge Command Center: Try this simple refrigerator command center to keep track at-a-glance of schedules, calendars, lunch menus, and other school-related lists.

This doesn’t have to only be for school papers. You can use these suggestions for your personal paperwork as well!

Related post: How to Create a School Memory Box {Easily Organize Papers and Memorabilia}

Prep for Winter

Fall is the perfect time to review your winter preparedness and make sure everything is in place before temperatures drop.

• Winter Gear Check: Pull out your cold-weather essentials like blankets, coats, scarves, and boots. Check if anything needs repairs or replacements, then store them in accessible spots like entryway closets or under-the-bed bins. Keeping these items within reach means you’re ready the moment winter hits.
• Create a Winter Bin: Use a bin for each family member’s winter accessories – gloves, hats, and scarves. Label each bin with their name to keep everything organized.
• Stock Up Early: Don’t wait for the first snowstorm to realize you’re low on essentials. Stock up on heavy winter necessities now, such as salt for the driveway, water softener salt, bird seed, etc.
• Prepare for Power Outages: Stock up on batteries, flashlights, and candles in case of winter storms. Having a few extra blankets and a backup power source for charging phones is always a smart idea. Also, make sure your snow shovels or snow blower are in good working order.
• Winter Emergency Kit: Create an emergency kit for your vehicle with items like non-perishable food, bottled water, a first aid kit, hot packs, blankets, and any necessary medications (be sure to check storage and safety recommendations).

Related post: How To Have Your Best-Ever Winter As An Indoorsy Person (Winter Self Care And Preparation)

Fall Hygge: Organizing Your Life for Calm & Coziness

One of the best things about fall is the chance to embrace the hygge lifestyle. Hygge is a Danish concept all about coziness, comfort, and finding joy in the simple things. Hygge fall organizing goes beyond just your physical space – it’s about organizing your life in a way that invites peace and relaxation.

Incorporate the hygge lifestyle this fall by adding cozy touches and simple routines that invite comfort and relaxation into your daily life:

• Candlelight Everywhere: Fill your home with dim lighting from candles in autumn scents like cinnamon, clove, and vanilla for a warm, soothing atmosphere. Don’t like candles? Try LED candles or twinkle lights.
• Simmer Pots: Simmer a mix of cinnamon sticks, cloves, oranges, and cranberries on your stove or in a small crockpot to make your home smell like fall.
• Unplug and Unwind: End your evenings with a screen-free routine – read a book by the fire, take a warm bath, do some nightly journaling, or simply relax with a cozy blanket.
• Soft, Natural Textures: Add soft materials like wool, cotton, and linen to your decor. A chunky knit throw or a wool blanket can instantly cozy up your space. Use natural elements like pinecones, dried leaves, pumpkins, or acorns in your home decor to add a rustic, cozy touch.
• Rich Fall Colors: Incorporate warm, autumnal tones like deep oranges, burgundy, and mustard through pillows, curtains, or blankets to create a comforting autumn hygge aesthetic.
• Knitting and Crafting: Enjoy quiet hobbies like knitting or crochet, which not only relax you but also allow you to create cozy fall items.
• Comfort Foods: Fill your home with the warm smells of fall by baking cinnamon rolls, pumpkin bread, or pies. If baked goods aren’t your thing, try making some delicious and aromatic new soup recipes.
• Nature Walks: Take time to appreciate the crisp fall air and changing leaves by going for walks in nature – don’t forget to bring a warm drink!
• Cozy Fall Morning Routine: Start your mornings slowly with a warm drink, candlelight, and some quiet reflection. Breakfast favorites like oatmeal with cinnamon can set a comforting tone for the day.
• Board Games and Puzzles: Unplug with simple activities like board games or puzzles for a cozy, relaxing way to spend time with loved ones. Here are some of the jigsaw puzzles I’ve been enjoying.
• Fireplace Coziness: If you have a fireplace, use it as a cozy centerpiece for your fall evenings and slow, cozy weekends.

Fall Planning and Productivity: Organizing Yourself for Success

Fall is the perfect season to reset not just your home, but your daily routines and productivity habits. It’s a great time to reassess your goals and create a structure that supports both efficiency and peace. Here are some fall planning ideas to help you stay productive and stress-free throughout the season.

Productive Morning Routine

A solid morning routine is essential for setting the tone for a productive day. Fall mornings are a great opportunity to build simple habits that help you start your day with focus.

• Start with Intention: Begin your day with a warm drink, whether it’s coffee, tea, or a seasonal favorite like spiced chai. Take a few moments to journal, meditate, or reflect on your plans for the day ahead. This quiet start can set a positive tone for the rest of your day.
• Tidy Up with a Morning Checklist: Include a quick, 5-minute tidy-up in your morning routine. Clear off counters, make your bed, or organize your workspace. This simple task can make your home feel more organized and help you focus on the day’s priorities.
• Incorporate Fresh Air and Movement: A brisk walk in the cool, crisp air or a few minutes of stretching by an open window can help energize your mind and body for a productive day.

Related post: 11 Perfect Morning Routine Tips And Tweaks For Overthinkers

Seasonal Task Planning

As we’ve discussed throughout this post, fall comes with its own set of tasks and responsibilities, from home maintenance to new routines and winter prep. By planning and breaking tasks into manageable chunks, you can reduce stress and stay organized.

• Create a Fall Prep List: Make a master list of everything you want to accomplish this season. This could include tasks like home maintenance, fall decluttering, or prepping for the holidays. Prioritize your list by what needs to be done first – things like cleaning out the gutters or swapping out your summer wardrobe for fall essentials.
• Use a Weekly Cleaning Schedule: A simple printable cleaning schedule will help keep your home in shape throughout the season.
• Plan for the Holidays Early: If you celebrate cultural or religious holidays during the upcoming season, start thinking about holiday prep now – gift ideas, travel plans, menus, activities, or any big projects. By tackling these tasks early, you’ll avoid the last-minute rush and have more time to enjoy the season.

Fall Bucket List for Fun and Balance

It’s important to balance productivity with fun, and fall offers plenty of activities that allow you to unwind and enjoy the season.

• Fall Bucket List for Adults: Don’t forget to schedule in some joy! Add seasonal activities to your fall calendar like apple picking, visiting a pumpkin patch, or hosting a fall-themed dinner. These activities not only help you unwind but also give you a chance to connect with friends and family.
• At Home Fall Activities: You don’t always need to go out to enjoy fall. Plan cozy evenings in with movie nights, baking, or trying a new craft. This way, you can enjoy the season without overloading your schedule.

Related post: Realistic Fall Bucket List for Adults: 25 Simple Ways to Enjoy the Autumn Season

Staying on Track with Productivity

To keep your productivity high throughout the season, it’s important to stay organized and intentional with your time.

• Use a Daily or Weekly Planner: Writing down your to-do lists, tasks, and goals helps you stay focused. Whether you prefer a digital app or a physical planner, organizing your tasks at the start of the week ensures you’re prepared for what’s ahead. If you feel intimidated or overwhelmed by expensive pre-printed planners, try my simple printable planning pages.
• Set Seasonal Goals: Fall is a great time to review your goals and set new ones. Whether it’s personal, home-related, or work-focused, write down what you want to achieve before the year ends and break those goals into small, manageable steps.
• Declutter Your Schedule: Just as you declutter your home, take time to look at your schedule and remove unnecessary commitments. Focus on the tasks and activities that truly matter to you, and make space for things that help you feel grounded and energized.

Related post: 10 Productive Things To Do In The Fall to Build Your Best Life

RECOMMENDED RESOURCE:
The Goal Journey Annual Goal Planner — This printable goal planner is designed to streamline your goal-setting process, allowing you to focus on one goal at a time and adapt as life evolves. Get the extra stuff out of your head, let go of the regrets and ‘should-dos,’ and start accomplishing the goals that really matter to YOU. Because it’s printable, you can begin ANY time of year… perfect for organizing your fall goals!

Embrace Fall Organizing – At Your Own Pace

Please don’t feel overwhelmed by this list! Remember, fall organization doesn’t have to be all-or-nothing. YOU get to choose what areas of your home and life need attention and what works best for you right now. CLICK HERE to have the free printable fall organizing checklist sent right to your email.

Fall is the perfect time to reset both your space and your habits, but it’s important to go at your own pace. You don’t have to tackle everything at once – doing a little at a time can still make a big difference. By doing what you can to organize your home and adjust your routines, you’ll create a sense of calm and order that supports you throughout the season.

When your home feels more organized and your routines are more intentional, you’ll feel more grounded and ready to enjoy all the cozy, beautiful moments this season has to offer as you Build Your Best Life.

You’ve got this!

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