10 Things To Throw Out Before Halloween, According To Home Editors

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Home editors at Good Housekeeping released a checklist of ten household items to discard before Halloween. The list includes expired makeup, worn winter shoes, and unused fall decorations. Experts advise decluttering these items to make space for seasonal transitions and ensure safety.

Home editors at Good Housekeeping have identified ten specific categories of household items that should be discarded or donated before Halloween. The recommendations, aimed at helping readers transition from summer to winter, include expired pantry staples, worn-out footwear, and unused seasonal decorations. This guidance addresses the common challenge of seasonal clutter, offering a structured approach to organizing homes ahead of the holiday season.

The editors emphasize the importance of checking heated and throw blankets for functionality and condition. Monique Valeris, Home Design Director, noted that while cozy blankets are tempting to buy, only a few are necessary. She advised checking that heated blankets still work properly to avoid cold nights. Items in good condition can be donated to local charities or animal shelters, while those in poor repair should be discarded.

Another critical area for decluttering is the pantry and freezer. With the holiday hosting season approaching, editors recommend removing expired spices and forgotten snacks. Laura Millar, assistant lifestyle editor, highlighted the need to clear freezer space for upcoming Thanksgiving meals. Similarly, expired makeup should be tossed by checking Period After Opening symbols to ensure hygiene and safety.

Seasonal clothing and accessories also require attention. Editors suggest trying on all winter shoes and jackets to check for fit and wear. Shoes with deteriorated soles or cushioning should be thrown out, while gently used items can be donated. Outgrown Halloween costumes and summer clothes that are no longer worn should also be removed to make room for fall and winter wardrobes.

Preparing Homes for Seasonal Transition

This guidance matters because seasonal transitions often lead to disorganized living spaces and potential safety hazards. By removing expired food items and damaged electrical blankets, homeowners can reduce health risks and improve home safety. The advice also promotes sustainable practices by encouraging donations of usable items to charities and shelters, thereby reducing waste and supporting community needs.

Furthermore, decluttering before major holidays like Thanksgiving and Halloween helps reduce stress. A clear freezer and pantry streamline meal preparation, while organized closets make dressing for cooler weather easier. The editors’ recommendations provide a practical framework for maintaining an orderly home environment during a busy time of year.

Editorial Recommendations for Home Organization

The recommendations come from Good Housekeeping, a publication known for its rigorous testing and lifestyle advice. The article was written by Alyssa Gautieri, who leads the publication’s gift guide strategy, with input from senior editors like Monique Valeris and Laura Millar. These editors regularly provide seasonal organizing tips based on their own household management experiences and professional testing standards.

While the article does not cite external scientific studies, it reflects common best practices in home organization and consumer safety. The focus on checking expiration dates and item condition aligns with general consumer advice for maintaining household hygiene and functionality. The timing of the publication, just before Halloween, targets readers looking to refresh their homes for the autumn season.

“Every fall, I like to take stock of my collection to confirm that they’re all still in good condition. I also make sure my heated blanket is still functioning well, since I can’t stand to be cold during the night.”

— Monique Valeris, Home Design Director

Specific Criteria for Item Disposal

While the article provides general guidelines, it does not specify exact expiration timelines for all food items or the precise wear indicators for every type of shoe or jacket. Readers must use their own judgment for items where the condition is borderline. Additionally, the article does not detail specific donation centers in every locality, requiring readers to research local charities or coat drives independently.

There is also no mention of recycling protocols for items that cannot be donated, such as heavily worn textiles or expired cosmetics. The environmental impact of discarding these items is not addressed, leaving the most sustainable disposal method for non-donatable goods unclear.

Implementing the Decluttering Checklist

Homeowners are encouraged to begin sorting through these ten categories immediately to ensure readiness for Halloween and the upcoming holiday season. After discarding or donating items, readers should consider organizing their remaining belongings to maximize storage efficiency. The next logical step is to purchase new seasonal essentials only after clearing out old inventory, preventing further accumulation of clutter.

Readers may also want to schedule regular maintenance checks for appliances and pantry items to prevent future buildup. By establishing a routine of seasonal decluttering, households can maintain a more organized and safe living environment throughout the year.

Key Questions

What should I do with old Halloween costumes?

Editors recommend donating outgrown Halloween costumes to organizations that help families in need. If the costumes are damaged or too worn, they should be discarded to free up storage space.

How do I know if my makeup is expired?

Check for the Period After Opening (PAO) symbol on the packaging, which indicates how many months the product is safe to use after opening. Toss any makeup that is broken, damaged, or past this timeframe.

Why should I throw out winter shoes before buying new ones?

Trying on existing winter shoes helps identify pairs with deteriorated soles or cushioning that are no longer safe or comfortable. Discarding these items prevents unnecessary purchases and ensures you only keep footwear that fits and functions well.

Can I donate fall decorations?

Yes, unused fall decorations can be donated to thrift stores like Goodwill, community centers, or schools. Editors advise donating them early so others can use them before the season ends.

Source: rss