October is the perfect time to refresh your living space as the seasons change. The winter season will be here before you know it, and you don’t want to face the chaos with a messy, disorganized home. That’s where an October declutter calendar can come in handy!
In this post, we’re talking about exactly how to get started on your own October declutter challenge, complete with an easy-to-follow printable decluttering calendar and selected practical declutter tips to keep you motivated.
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The Benefits of Decluttering in October
When you declutter in October, you’re taking proactive steps toward controlling the inevitable seasonal stress. Plus, it just feels good to clear out the unnecessary clutter that’s been piling up. It’s not just about getting rid of things… it’s about simplifying your home in October and resetting your living space for a calmer, more organized life. An autumn declutter challenge helps you:
- Regain control of your home (clutter control)
- Create more space and peace of mind (life organization)
- Start the end-of-year reset early (seasonal decluttering checklist)
The beauty of a decluttering calendar is that it turns the process into a simple, organized routine — 10 minutes a day can make a world of difference! By the time you’re done with the month, you’ll be in a much better position to handle the busy months ahead without feeling buried by (as much) mess and disorganization.
Day-By-Day October Decluttering
Okay, here’s the thing… I like to switch things up from day to day. For this monthly declutter calendar, we’re not going to deeply declutter every nook and cranny of one or two spaces. That can get really old, really fast.
This is more of a general ‘little bit here and there’ type of calendar that hits a lot of clutter hot spots and a few hidden areas that you don’t often think about — but make a difference when it comes to having an organized home. When you look at this calendar, you may think you won’t notice a HUGE difference in your clutter level by the end of the month.
It’s true that you won’t touch every.single.space in your home with these quick daily tasks. But by the end of the month? You’ll definitely notice some clearer spaces, how much simpler cleaning feels, and that you’re more ready for winter preparations.
Now, let’s break it down. Below is your October declutter calendar, designed for quick, daily tasks that take around 10 minutes. You COULD spend longer, but try not to do that — this is supposed to be simple, not overwhelming.
No time to read? Just want the printable? Click here to have the free printable declutter calendar and checklist sent right to your email.
October 1: Entry or Mudroom – Tidy up shoes, coats, and bags
October 2: Bath Linens – Sort and declutter old towels and washcloths
October 3: Purse – Empty and organize contents of your purse
October 4: Under Kitchen Sink – Clear out and organize supplies
October 5: Magazines – Recycle or donate old magazines
October 6: Freezer – Toss expired or unused items
October 7: Summer Clothes – Store for the season; donate some pieces
October 8: Email – Delete unnecessary emails
October 9: Kitchen Linens – Declutter old dish towels and cloths
October 10: Jewelry – Organize and declutter unused pieces
October 11: Mugs + Glasses – Donate extras
October 12: Tax Files – Sort and organize tax documents; start with oldest year
October 13: Fridge – Clean out expired food
October 14: Cold-Weather Coats, Hats, etc. – Sort through and declutter; donate
October 15: Phone Apps – Delete unused or unnecessary apps
October 16: Under Bathroom Sink – Declutter and organize toiletries, other supplies
October 17: Belts, Scarves, Accessories – Minimize and organize accessories; donate
October 18: Baking Dishes – Clear out unused or excessive bakeware
October 19: Books – Donate or pass along books you no longer need or won’t read
October 20: Yard + Garden Supplies – Sort and declutter tools and supplies
October 21: Broken or Old Electronics – Recycle or dispose of broken gadgets
October 22: Computer Browser Bookmarks – Delete unnecessary bookmarks
October 23: Kitchen Counter – Declutter and organize the counter space
October 24: Hair Products – Toss expired or unused items
October 25: Small Appliances – Minimize kitchen gadgets
October 26: Tax Files – Another session to organize and shred
October 27: Baking Supplies – Sort through and organize baking ingredients
October 28: Top of Washer + Dryer – Clear off clutter and tidy up
October 29: Front of Fridge – Declutter magnets, papers, and notes
October 30: Second Bathroom Vanity – Declutter countertop and under the vanity
October 31: Extra Bowls, Plates, etc. – Minimize excess kitchen items
These daily declutter tasks for October are quick and easy, making it simple to stay consistent without feeling overwhelmed.
How to Stick to Your October Declutter Calendar
Staying motivated to declutter throughout the month can be tough, but I know you can do it! Here are a few tips to help you keep going:
- Set aside a specific time each day dedicated to clearing clutter. I prefer to choose a time when I have plenty of energy or I’m least likely to be interrupted, like early morning or late evening.
- Set a timer: Give yourself 10 minutes per task and stop when the time is up. It’s easier to tackle decluttering when you know it’s only for a short amount of time.
- Follow a plan: Use the October decluttering calendar as your guide. By having a clear task for each day, you eliminate decision fatigue.
- Keep a donation box handy so you can toss items in as you go.
- Track your progress: Take before-and-after pictures and count how many items you’ve removed from your home each day — and celebrate the completion of each day’s decluttering session.
- Get the family involved: Turn it into a family activity by making it a fun game for the kids.
Preparing for the End of the Year
As the year winds down, an end-of-year declutter strategy can help you stay on top of things before the seasonal rush. By following your October declutter calendar, you’ll already have a head start on keeping your home in check.
This is also the perfect time to do some fall cleaning tasks — especially if you never got around to spring cleaning this year. You may also want to incorporate some hygge ideas and daily routine planning from my fall organizing post.
More Decluttering Inspiration
How I Decluttered My Home: Decluttered Home Inspiration And Tips From A Borderline Hoarder
How To Succeed In Balancing Practicality And Idealism When Decluttering Your Home
5 Wardrobe Management Tips To Always Have An Organized Closet
Simplify Your Home in October
The goal of the October declutter calendar isn’t just to get rid of things — it’s to simplify your home and make life easier. With small, consistent steps each day, you’ll feel more in control and less overwhelmed by your environment. Every time we do that, life gets a little better.
Bonus: Printable October Declutter Calendar
Ready to take action? Download the free October declutter calendar and checklist so you can start clearing clutter right away. Take it one day at a time, and by the end of October, you’ll be amazed at how much lighter and clearer your home — and your mind — feels!
You’ve got this!
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