As the summer heat rises, minimalists everywhere are taking advantage of the season’s energy to create homes that breathe and function better. While spring cleaning is traditionally associated with April showers, savvy organizers know that midsummer offers a perfect opportunity for a second wave of decluttering before fall arrives.
Why minimalists purge twice yearly
The minimalist lifestyle isn’t just about having less—it’s about intentional living. ”Minimalism is not about deprivation but about creating space for what truly matters,” explains Joshua Becker, founder of Becoming Minimalist. ”Summer purges help us reset our homes and minds before the busy fall season begins.”
With June already halfway gone, now is the perfect moment to follow the minimalist’s midsummer decluttering ritual. Here are the five categories minimalists are eliminating right now:
1. Seasonal transition clothing that never made it out
Look in your closet—those spring items you never unpacked or wore? It’s time for them to go. ”If you didn’t reach for certain pieces during their intended season, they’re just creating mental clutter every time you open your closet,” advises professional organizer Lisa Cantu.
Items to consider removing include:
- Spring jackets that stayed in storage
- Transitional footwear you bypassed
- Seasonal accessories that no longer match your style
2. Kitchen gadgets collecting dust
Summer is when minimalists reassess their kitchen tools, particularly those specialized gadgets that promised convenience but delivered clutter.
”Kitchen gadgets are the number one source of functional clutter in American homes,” says Dr. Sofia Lindström, lifestyle psychologist. ”If you haven’t used that spiralizer or fancy egg slicer in the past year, someone else could be enjoying it instead.”
”Broken tools won’t magically repair themselves, so clear them out,” advises Lisa Zaslow, founder of Gotham Organizers.
3. Bathroom products past their prime
The bathroom cabinet often becomes a product graveyard. Those half-used lotions and specialty hair products you’ve been saving ”just in case” are prime candidates for elimination. Summer heat accelerates the degradation of many beauty products, making this the perfect time to assess what’s still viable.
Consider tossing:
- Sunscreens from previous summers
- Dried-out styling products
- Anything with a changed color, texture, or smell
- Products you’re simply not using
4. Paper accumulations from the first half of the year
Minimalists know that paper clutter creates significant mental weight. ”A tidy home reflects a tidy mind,” notes organization expert Ottilie Blackhall. ”Digital systems have eliminated the need for most paper storage.”
Now is the perfect time to scan important documents from the first half of 2025 and shred the rest. This simple practice creates breathing room in your home and mind before fall activities begin. Removing hidden clutter has surprising effects on stress levels.
5. Digital distractions that drain your energy
Modern minimalists recognize that digital possessions can be just as burdensome as physical ones. Summer 2025’s biggest minimalist trend involves purging digital spaces—deleting unused apps, clearing photo libraries, and unsubscribing from email lists.
”Digital minimalism is about creating intentional spaces in our virtual lives just like we do in our physical homes,” explains Rita, creator of popular decluttering workbooks. Simple adjustments can have transformative effects on how we feel.
Looking forward: The balance of style and minimalism
While decluttering remains essential, 2025’s minimalists aren’t sacrificing style. They’re simply being more intentional about their choices, selecting timeless pieces over trendy options.
Even beauty routines are becoming streamlined yet effective, with techniques that deliver maximum results with minimal effort. The right styling choices can create transformative effects while maintaining minimalist principles.
Is your home ready for the second half of 2025?
A midsummer purge creates space for new experiences and opportunities in the months ahead. By removing what no longer serves you—physically and digitally—you’re making room for what truly matters: experiences, relationships, and moments that bring genuine joy to your life.