Need a summer project? Decluttering for Empty Nesters

When the kids have moved out and the house suddenly feels a little quieter (and a lot bigger), it’s the perfect time to refresh your space and lighten the load. Whether you're looking to downsize, repurpose old bedrooms, or simply create a more peaceful environment, decluttering can be both freeing and empowering.

This room-by-room checklist is designed especially for empty nesters—helping you make intentional decisions about what to keep, donate, repurpose, or let go of. You’ve built a home full of memories—now it’s time to make space for what’s next.

Let’s simplify, organize, and transform your home one step at a time.
Here are some practical and emotionally supportive decluttering ideas for empty nesters ready to simplify their space and refresh their home for a new chapter:

🏡 Room-by-Room Strategy

1. Bedrooms:

• Repurpose kids’ rooms: home office, hobby space, guest room.

• Keep a memory box of a few sentimental items, but donate or store the rest.

• Use under-bed storage bins for off-season or occasional-use items.

2. Closets:

• Donate clothes that haven’t been worn in a year.

• Use the “one-in, one-out” rule to prevent buildup.

• Try matching hangers to instantly neaten the look.

3. Kitchen:

• Get rid of duplicate gadgets, mismatched containers, and rarely used appliances.

• Clear out expired pantry and fridge items.

• Keep everyday essentials within easy reach.

4. Garage/Basement/Attic:

• Sort items into: Keep, Donate, Sell, Trash.

• Label clear bins for holiday décor, keepsakes, tools, etc.

• Schedule a haul-away or donation pickup day.

🧘‍♀️ Mindful Decluttering Tips

• Start small: One drawer or one shelf at a time.

• Use the “joy test”: Does this item still serve a purpose or make you happy?

• Digitize: Scan photos, paperwork, kids’ art, and cards to free up space.

• Ask your kids: Let them take or choose what’s meaningful before donating.

💡 Bonus Ideas

• Host a family sorting day—a chance to reminisce and declutter together.

• Turn valuable items into estate sale or Facebook Marketplace listings.

• Hire a professional organizer for a room makeover or downsizing project.