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Your Declutter Day Checklist: What to Gather, What to Toss, and How to Get Ready

  • Writer: Julie Meier
    Julie Meier
  • Jan 26
  • 3 min read

As our month of decluttering comes to a close, this checklist is your final step. Use it to gather what is left, sort items with confidence, and prepare for a lighter, more spacious home before the end of the month.


If you want inspiration before you begin, explore the rest of the decluttering series:


Why Decluttering Matters

Why It’s Easier to Declutter in January

Trash Bag Challenge

Dump vs. Donate Guide


1. Do a Quick Walkthrough With a Basket or Tote

Take a simple lap through your home with a laundry basket or reusable tote. The goal is not perfection. You are looking for the things you already know can go.


A few easy wins:

  • Outgrown kids’ items

  • Random home decor you never display

  • Duplicates in the kitchen

  • Unused linens or blankets

  • Toiletries you do not use


This is meant to be fast. A light first sweep builds momentum.


2. Identify the “Dump” Items (Especially the Big Ones)

The dumpster is the real gift of Declutter Day. This is your chance to let go of items that are too worn-out, bulky, or awkward to dispose of during regular life.


Everyday items that are ready for the dumpster:

  • Broken or chipped dishes

  • Mismatched or damaged kitchenware

  • Electronics that no longer work

  • Worn or stained clothing or bedding

  • Toys or books that are missing pieces or damaged

  • Holiday decor or lights that no longer work


If it is broken, incomplete, or not something you would bring into a fresh, organized space, add it to the dump pile.


Larger items people often forget they can toss:

  • The rusted bike in the garage or side yard

  • A broken patio umbrella or weather-worn outdoor furniture

  • Cracked plastic outdoor toys or play structures

  • A sagging or damaged bookshelf

  • An outdated or uncomfortable armchair

  • Unused or unsafe sporting equipment

  • A damaged suitcase or duffel bag

  • Small appliances that no longer work (vacuums, fans, heaters, blenders)

  • Artificial trees or decor that no longer light up

  • A rolled-up rug you moved twice but never placed


These big pieces take up both physical and mental space. Letting them go creates an immediate sense of clarity.


A helpful question:

If someone offered to haul this away for free tomorrow, would I say yes?

If yes, put it in the dump pile.


3. Curate a Small, Thoughtful Donation Pile

Donation items should feel clean, functional, and ready for a second life.

A few great donation candidates:

  • Clothing in excellent condition

  • Shoes with plenty of wear left

  • Home decor in good shape

  • Working small appliances

  • Gently used toys and games

  • Books worth sharing


Keep this pile small and intentional. If you hesitate or feel unsure, place the item in the dump pile instead.


4. Check the Spaces You Forget About

Five minutes in each of these spots can fill a bag quickly:

  • Garage shelves

  • Linen closets

  • Under bathroom sinks

  • Pantry tops and corners

  • Laundry room cabinets

  • Under beds

  • Back corners of closets


Most people discover forgotten items in these areas, and many are easy to release.


5. Gather Bags, Boxes, or Totes

You do not need anything fancy. Whatever you have on hand is perfect.

Labeling can make things feel calmer:

  • Donate

  • Dump

  • Not sure yet


You can decide the “not sure” items at the event.


6. Prep Your Car the Day Before

A quick clear-out of your trunk or backseat makes loading everything simple. This small step turns the morning of the event into something easy and stress-free.


7. Bring Anything You Are Ready to Release

At Declutter Day on January 31, you will find:

  • A dumpster for broken, bulky, worn-out, or outdated items

  • A donation area for clean, gently used pieces that still have life left


No sorting at the event. No guessing. No multiple drop-off locations. Just bring it, release it, and start the year lighter.


People often tell me the biggest relief comes from letting go of the items that have been lingering in garages, side yards, patios, and closets for years.


8. Celebrate the Fresh Start

Decluttering is not only about removing things. It is about creating space for a home that feels calm, clear, and aligned with the life you are building.


Take a moment to appreciate the difference. You made progress. You made room. You created breathing space. And when you stop by on January 31, grab a donut and a hot cup of coffee. You’ve earned it.



Want more information about Declutter Day? Check out the Event Page.



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