Summer Decluttering Tips: What to Store vs. Toss

As the summer sun rolls in, it’s the perfect time to shake off the clutter and refresh your living space. Whether you’re preparing for house guests, creating more space for summer hobbies, or simply tired of digging through overflowing closets, seasonal decluttering can bring a major sense of relief. The key? Knowing what to store, what to toss, and how to make smart use of self-storage solutions.

At ModBox Storage, we’ve helped thousands of families across Indiana, North Carolina, and South Carolina organize their lives—starting with their storage. Here’s your guide to making the most of your space this summer.

Why Summer is the Best Season to Declutter

Unlike spring cleaning, summer decluttering focuses more on optimization than deep cleaning. With school out, vacation plans in motion, and more time spent outdoors, this season often uncovers what you don’t need and what needs to be stored properly to protect against heat and humidity.

From organizing outdoor gear to cycling out seasonal clothing, decluttering in the summer creates more breathing room inside your home—literally and mentally.

What to Store: Make Room Without Sacrifice

Some items don’t need to be tossed—they just need to be relocated. Here are common things you can confidently place in storage during the summer months:

1. Winter Clothing and Bedding

If you’re still digging through sweaters to find tank tops, it’s time to rotate your wardrobe. Vacuum-sealed bins and garment racks work great for seasonal clothing storage. Just be sure to choose a climate-controlled storage unit to protect fabric from mildew and humidity damage.

2. Holiday Decorations

It’s not just Christmas lights—Halloween props, Thanksgiving centerpieces, and even New Year’s party gear can take up more space than they deserve. Label bins clearly and keep them stored until the season rolls back around.

3. School Supplies & Paperwork

Kids are out of school, which means old backpacks, art projects, and stacks of last year’s homework are taking up precious space. Store sentimental or necessary items, and recycle the rest.

4. Seasonal Sports Gear

Ice skates, snowboards, sleds—if you won’t use it for months, store it out of the way. You’ll instantly regain entryway or garage space.

Need help deciding how much space you’ll need for these items? Our Storage Unit Size Guide breaks it down clearly so you can avoid overpaying or underestimating your storage needs.

What to Toss: Create Space and Sanity

Decluttering isn’t just about moving things around—it’s also about letting go. Here’s a quick checklist of what to toss, donate, or recycle this summer:

1. Broken or Unused Outdoor Furniture

That faded plastic chair with one good leg? It’s not coming back in style. Recycle or trash broken items and donate what’s still in usable shape.

2. Expired Sunscreen, Bug Spray & Pool Chemicals

Check those summer essentials for expiration dates. Most personal care and cleaning products lose their effectiveness or become unsafe after a year or two in hot environments.

3. Old Clothing You Haven’t Worn in 12 Months

A good rule of thumb: if you didn’t wear it last summer, you probably won’t wear it this one either. Make a donation pile and stick to it.

4. Children’s Toys They’ve Outgrown

With more time outside, kids often gravitate to fewer indoor toys. Use this opportunity to pare down and donate.

Maximize Your Decluttering Efforts with Seasonal Storage Solutions

Sometimes it’s not about what you toss—it’s about what you store smartly. That’s where self-storage comes in.

Whether you’re storing for a temporary transition or need longer-term space, ModBox Storage offers a wide variety of seasonal storage solutions tailored for summer:

• Household Storage for overflow furniture and home goods

• Moving Storage if you’re relocating during the busy summer season

• Drive-Up Storage for easy weekend access to gear or supplies
  
  

Plus, if you're unsure what can or can't go into storage—or how to pack it safely—our team shares expert storage tips to help you store like a pro.

Decluttering Feels Better With a Plan

As you sort through the clutter, remember: you don’t have to do it all at once. Start with one room or one category, and build momentum. Keep three piles—store, toss, donate—and stick with the system. You’ll be amazed at how quickly your space transforms.

Still have questions about what you can store or which unit type makes the most sense? Visit our FAQ page for quick answers, or stop by a ModBox location near you for friendly advice and a guided tour.

Ready to Declutter? Start with ModBox.

Summer should be about making memories—not managing messes. Whether you need short-term storage while you renovate or just want to free up your home for the season, ModBox Storage is here to help you make space for what matters.

Find a location near you today and reserve your unit online—decluttering has never been easier.