10 Things to Declutter on a Rainy Weekend Afternoon

10 Things to Declutter on a Rainy Weekend Afternoon

by Your Functional Space

Anyone who has decluttered or downsized can agree on one thing: it’s more of a marathon than a sprint. The key, though, is to not let it become a treadmill. A race has a beginning and an end. A moment when you can look back and be proud of your accomplishment. A switch from decluttering to maintaining.

Waiting for the “perfect” time to get organized can leave you circling the same messes week after week. A rainy afternoon is the perfect excuse to throw on a movie for the kids, turn on your favorite podcast, and lighten your load—mentally and physically.

If you’re short on time or energy, here are 10 low-effort, high-impact things to declutter on a rainy day:

1. Expired Pantry Items

Sort through canned goods, spices, baking mixes, and forgotten snacks. Toss anything expired or stale and take note of what you actually use—so future you can shop smarter.

2. Old Toiletries and Beauty Products

That eye cream sample from 2021? The shampoo you thought you’d love? Let it go. Keep only what you use regularly—and make space for routines that actually serve you.

3. Outgrown or Worn Kids’ Clothes

Rainy days are great for pulling out the too-small pants, the stained shirts, and the unmatched baby socks. Keep what’s meaningful, donate what’s useful, and ditch what’s done.

4. Unmatched Food Storage Containers

Lidless tubs, warped lids, and containers stained beyond recognition—be honest with yourself and recycle what no longer fits together or fits your life. It doesn't matter why you pass something by every time, just stop shuffling it once and for all.

5. Mugs and Water Bottles You Never Use

We all have favorites. Pare down to what you actually reach for and donate the rest. Your cabinets will breathe easier, and so will you. My favorite way to accomplish this is when the sink is full of dishes and I'm about to unload the dishwasher. Whatever is left in the pantry are likely on the 'least favorite' list.

6. Shoes That Hurt Your Feet

Be real: if they pinch, rub, or make you wince just thinking about them, it’s time to say goodbye. Rainy days are perfect for testing out what still works and what doesn’t.

7. Pet Supplies That Don't Get Used

Old leashes, half-chewed toys, or treats your pet turned their nose up at—these can clutter cabinets and baskets quickly. Keep what your furry friend loves and donate or discard the rest.

8. Reusable Shopping Bags

They multiply fast. If your stash has outgrown your storage space, keep a few sturdy ones and pass along or recycle the extras. Food pantries love reusable bag donations, if you have some food to pass on you can bring these too!

9. Kitchen Gadgets You Never Use

Avocado slicer? Spiralizer? Seasonal cake pans? Free up your kitchen for the stuff you use and let go of the guilt.

10. Seasonal Accessories You Skip Every Year

Hats that don’t fit, itchy scarves, or gloves missing a mate—make space now so winter or summer gear isn’t a hassle later.

Decluttering doesn’t require a full weekend or a perfect plan. Sometimes it just takes a little rain and the decision to start somewhere. Whether you tackle one idea or all ten, you'll end the day with less clutter and more calm.

Need help making the most of your time and space? Your Functional Space offers judgment-free support for busy people, overwhelmed parents, and anyone craving a home that feels a little lighter.