Ultimate November Declutter Checklist

November is the perfect time to reset before the holidays. As the weather cools down and the year winds to a close, it’s natural to crave a calmer, more organized home. Before the busyness of December arrives, take this month to declutter the little things that tend to pile up — from old hair products to extra bedding.

To make it easier, I’ve broken the list down into four weekly mini challenges. By the end of the month, you’ll have cleared out so much space — just in time for cozy nights and holiday gatherings.

November Declutter Checklist: 4 Weeks to a Simpler Home

Get your free printable checklist at the bottom of this post!

Week 1: Bathroom + Beauty Reset

Bathrooms tend to collect half-used products and random items that we never get around to tossing. This month, open those drawers and cabinets and get honest about what you actually use.

Declutter old hairbrushes, broken claw clips, headbands you don’t wear, and hairdryers or curling irons that have stopped working or been replaced. Go through your shower and toss shampoo or conditioner you didn’t like, body wash that’s expired, and cosmetics that don’t work for you. If you have old lipstick or outdated makeup, it’s time to say goodbye.

You can also use this time to go through samples that have piled up. If you haven’t used them by now, you probably never will. Once you’re done, wipe down your counters and drawers — it’s amazing how fresh your bathroom feels with a few less bottles and tubes lying around.

Declutter these items:

• Old hairbrushes

• Broken claw clips

• Headbands you don’t wear

• Hairdryers or curling irons you no longer use

• Shampoo and conditioner you didn’t like

• Body wash you didn’t like

• Cosmetics or skincare you don’t use

• Old lipstick or makeup that’s expired

• Any outdated items in your bathroom

• Too many product samples

Week 2: Linens + Laundry Closet Refresh

Next, move on to your linen closet. This space often hides more extras than we realize. Go through your old sheets, throw blankets, pillowcases, and decorative pillows. Anything that’s stained, ripped, or hasn’t been used in the past year can go.

Take a look at tablecloths, towels, and washcloths too. If they’re worn thin or frayed, it might be time to retire them. You can cut old towels into cleaning rags or donate gently used ones to an animal shelter. Your closet will instantly feel more organized once everything inside is something you actually use.

Declutter these items:

• Old sheets

• Throw blankets

• Pillowcases

• Decorative pillows

• Tablecloths

• Worn-out towels

• Washcloths

• Extra bedding

• Beach towels you no longer use

Now you will be left with the things you really love!

Week 3: Seasonal Clean-Out

After Halloween, it’s easy to just shove decorations into storage, but this is the perfect moment to declutter what you didn’t use. If there are Halloween decorations that stayed in the box this year, consider donating or passing them along to someone who will enjoy them.

You’ll thank yourself next year when you pull out only the decor you love and actually use. This small step helps prevent your holiday storage bins from becoming overwhelming — and makes decorating more fun when the next season arrives.

Before you put away your warm-weather clothes, go through each piece and decide if it deserves space in your closet next year. Toss or donate bathing suits that are worn out, shorts or tank tops that no longer fit, and dresses you never wear.

Don’t forget the flip-flops that have seen better days and the beach bags you didn’t use this summer. If an item wasn’t worn or used during the season, chances are it won’t be next year either. Letting go now saves you time later when spring rolls back around.

Declutter these items:

• Halloween decor you didn’t use

• Bathing suits that are worn out

• Shorts that no longer fit

• Tank tops that no longer fit

• Dresses you never wear

• Flip-flops that are worn out

• Beach bags you didn’t use

Now you will be clutter-free when summer rolls around next year.

Week 4: Wardrobe + Accessories Simplify

Accessories can sneakily build up over time. Go through hats you never wear, bras that hurt, and underwear you don’t like. There’s no reason to hang onto items that make you uncomfortable or that you constantly skip over when getting dressed.

Take a few minutes to organize what’s left so everything you see is something you enjoy wearing. It’s a small change that makes your daily routine feel calmer and more intentional.

Declutter these items:

• Bras that hurt or don’t fit

• Underwear you don’t like

• Hats you never wear

• Socks you never wear or are worn out

Easy Decluttering Tips for Beginners

If you’re new to decluttering, don’t worry — you don’t have to tackle your whole house at once. Start small and build momentum. These simple tips will make it easier to get started and stay motivated.

1. Start with one small space.
Pick one drawer, shelf, or box and finish it completely before moving on. Completing small areas builds confidence and keeps you from feeling overwhelmed.

2. Use the “keep, toss, donate” method.
Sort items into three piles as you go: what you’ll keep, what you’ll throw away, and what you’ll donate. Making quick decisions helps you stay focused and avoid second-guessing.

3. Set a timer.
Declutter for just 10–15 minutes at a time. Working in short bursts keeps it manageable and helps you stay consistent. You’ll be amazed at what you can do in a few focused minutes a day.

4. Ask yourself better questions.
Instead of asking, “Should I get rid of this?” ask, “Do I use this?” or “Would I buy this again today?” Those questions help you decide what truly deserves space in your home.

5. Declutter by category, not just by room.
Try focusing on one type of item — like towels, shoes, or books — so you can see how much you really own. This makes it easier to spot duplicates and extras you don’t need.

6. Don’t overthink donations.
If you’re holding on to something because it was expensive or a gift, remember that keeping it doesn’t make it more valuable. Letting go gives it a chance to be useful to someone else.

7. Celebrate your progress.
Each small step adds up. Take a moment to enjoy the extra space you’ve created and how much calmer your home feels.

 

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE NOVEMBER DECLUTTER CHECKLIST

November Declutter Final Thoughts

Declutter a little each week to keep the process simple and manageable. By December, you’ll enjoy a lighter, more peaceful home. Use November to create space — for cozy nights in, meaningful family gatherings, and a calmer start to the holidays.

Move through each category, check off items on your list, and celebrate every bit of progress. Focus on feeling calm, clear, and ready for what’s next rather than chasing perfection.