You probably don't want to think about this, but summer has already gone and now it's time to prepare your home for the colder months. Apart from deep cleaning, which is a great idea at the beginning of autumn, you should consider decluttering. We've put together a list of 13 things you should get rid of at the end of summer.

1. The kids’ summer clothes

Don't store your children's summer clothes. Give them to charity, instead.  Kids grow a lot in the space of one year. You can't expect them to fit into the same clothes next summer. Do yourself a favour and make some much-needed space for their winter clothing.

2. Old toiletries

It’s time to get new toothbrushes, bath sponges and other toiletries. Get soaps and shower gels with more autumn-like scents like cinnamon or green tea to help you get into the mood for the new season.

3. Medicines that have expired

As the weather gets colder, you and your family member are more likely to get sick. Make sure your home pharmacy only contains medicines that have not expired yet. You don’t want to take or give someone else a medicine that's out of date.

4. Old magazines and newspapers

Why would you need old news? Unless, of course the news is about you! Old issues of magazines and newspapers don't serve any purpose, but take up space you can use to put new books or a beautiful family picture.

5. Food that’s gone past its expiry date

When last did you check your cupboard? Most of us forget to check the expiry date of cupboard foods, because usually they last long. Well, long is not forever! Use the opportunity to clear all food items that are no longer safe to eat. Also, it's a chance to restock with some healthy goodies. New season, new you!

6. Chipped cups, glasses, dishes and bowls

While you are in the kitchen, check the state of your plates, cups and glasses. Any time is the best time to have a cup of tea during the autumn.  Don’t take the risk of cutting yourself on a chipped mug. Even if it's your favourite one!

7. Things with missing parts

Stop telling yourself that you’ll find the missing parts or buy spares… It's been a year! Just throw the whole thing away.

8. Damaged clothes

We know some people develop an attachment to particular pieces of clothing, even when they are damaged beyond repair. Maybe it's a precious memory you have with that dress. Fair enough, but it doesn't mean it should stay in your closet! Create a memory box and put that item there, then take it to the attic or the garage.

9. Shoes you don’t or rarely wear

“But what if I need them for an outfit?” We’ve all used that excuse for a pair of shoes. In 95% of the cases they stay untouched. Be a wise person and throw them away.

10. Presents you don’t like or won’t use

You can’t return a gift, but you don’t have to keep it either if you don't like it or need it. Be good to yourself and to others by donating any unwanted items.

11. Junk mail and letters not addressed to you

Moved to a new place recently? You may still be getting the previous occupants' mail. Don't pile it up, if it's been more than a month. Return them to the sender. In regards to junk mail, put up a sign on your door you don't want to receive it and get rid of the items you already received.

12. Paperwork you no longer need

Some documents you need to keep for quite a long period of time. However, others can go straight in the bin. Go through your filing cabinet or folder and dispose of any paperwork that’s no longer needed.

13. Toxic cleaning materials

Invest in the wellbeing of your family and the appearance of your home. Swap the commercial cleaning products, full of toxins, with eco-friendly solutions or DIY mixtures.

Actually, the list is longer, but we leave it to you to decide what else you don't want to keep in your home and in your life with the start of a new season. If you ever need us to help with the cleaning, you know where and how to find us. Happy decluttering!