5 things you need to declutter in February

A person decluttering clothes in a cardboard box

(Image credit: Shutterstock)

February is finally here, after what feels like a 3-month-long January. It really dragged this year. And with February doesn't just come Galentine's Day, Valentine's Day, and Mardi Gras, but it's your last chance before spring (and spring cleaning season) to have a good declutter. Yes, it is the shortest month of the year, so I wouldn't expect to declutter your entire house from top to bottom, but there are a few hot spots that would be smart to focus on.

The time of wearing your winter gear will soon come to a close, so it'd be smart to focus on the necessary items that you use winter after winter, that you'll be packing into the attic soon. I can almost bet that your pantry is still filled with food from the Holidays and Thanksgiving, too? If it's anything like mine, then it's screaming out for a declutter. Here's what else to focus on rearranging and decluttering in your home in February.

5 things to declutter in February

1. Your winter wear

coats on hanger — (Image credit: Shutterstock)

While they're still in frequent use, it's the ideal time to take note of which gloves are a bit too worn out, and which coats don't quite fit how they used to. You'll inevitably end up putting them all in storage once the cold weather has passed, so instead, why not clear out the things you really don't want or need while they're right in front of you.

So, it's time to go through your collection and donate any bits you (or the kids) didn't wear, and then drop them off at your local thrift store. As for the older items that have done their time, these can go in the recycling. Then, try to reorganise these items and perhaps buy a new basket for them all.

Struggling for a place to store these items in your entryway? I get it — my entryway is tiny, but I do need somewhere to keep these smaller winter must-haves in easy reach for when the morning is busy, and I know I'll forget something. Don't overlook the convenience of a lidded basket, as these can be stacked to save floor space, and they hide the kids' bright colored clothing away.

2. Give your pantry a refresh

pantry with flour and spices — (Image credit: Shutterstock)

Your pantry will be in desperate need for a declutter, especially after all of that Thanksgiving food and Christmas chocolate you've been trying to work your way through.

Clean each shelf and put foods into a pile, separating the ones you can donate to your local food bank and the items that you want to keep.

Then, give this space a little refresh and move things around. Add some extra storage bins to help separate food stuffs, and to help keep this space tidier for longer.

3. Your closet

Clothes hanging in white closet — (Image credit: Shutterstock)

Before you break out your spring and summer wardrobe, use this chance to go through your sweater collection.

Donate everything you haven't worn this season to Goodwill and make some room for new-season styles. Use this chance to invest in some new hangers if yours need replacing.

4. That junk drawer in your kitchen

We've all got a kitchen drawer that's just full of random junk. The drawer that you use to house anything that doesn't have a proper home, from various wires to random kitchen gadgets and instruction manuals for gadgets you don't even own any more.

It's time to give this drawer a declutter (I know it needs it!) and give some of these items a proper home. This way, you can make space for whatever random stuff will be thrown in there next.

5. Your cleaning closet

Household cleaning items — (Image credit: Shutterstock)

Spring means spring cleaning is around the corner, so it's time to make sure that your cleaning closet is equipped with everything that you need. And don't forget: some cleaning products have a lifespan of 12 or 18 months, so these will need to be thrown away if out of date.

Give this space a real refresh and move the things you use daily, so they're in easy reach. This way, come spring cleaning day(s), you'll be armed with the right kit and tools to do these jobs efficiently.

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Annie is a freelancer at Tom's Guide. She's been an Editor at various home magazines for 7 years — reviewing and writing about everything from cleaning products to air fryers and mattresses. Annie started her career at Real Homes as Deals Editor in 2018 and by 2020 she was the UK Shopping Editor at Livingetc, Homes & Gardens, and Ideal Home. She was in charge of the majority of eCommerce content on these sites, including reviews and buying guides. Now, as a freelancer, she writes features, reviews, and guides for several brands including BBC Good Food, Ideal Home, and Parade Home & Garden.

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