10 Things to Declutter from Your Entryway Before the Weather Turns

When fall rolls around, it’s not just about swapping out the summer decor for pumpkins and cozy blankets — it’s about creating an entryway that feels fresh, functional, and perfectly in tune with the season. You see, a cluttered entryway can quickly set the wrong tone as the cooler months settle in. But don’t worry, it’s easier than you think to make this space fall-ready.

The first step? Removing items that no longer serve you. You might not realize it, but some summer staples need to be packed away to make room for the warm and inviting fall vibe you’re after. Whether it’s switching out light, airy decor for something cozier or clearing out clutter that doesn’t fit the season, getting your entryway fall-ready starts with letting go of the old.

In this article, I’ll walk you through the top 10 items to remove from your entryway before you start decorating for fall. These simple changes will make your space feel more organized, inviting, and seasonal — without the overwhelm. Let’s dive in!

Why Preparing Your Entryway for Fall Matters

Your entryway is the first thing you — and your guests — see when entering your home. It sets the tone for the entire space, and it’s crucial that it reflects the changing season. As summer fades and fall rolls in, this space should feel warm, welcoming, and functional. But it’s not just about swapping out the decor. Preparing your entryway for fall is about more than aesthetics. It’s about creating a space that is organized, efficient, and in harmony with the season.

Why does this matter? Because clutter can quickly overwhelm a space that’s meant to be calming and inviting. And as the weather cools, the entryway becomes more than just a greeting spot; it’s also a functional space where you store outdoor gear, shoes, and accessories. By making thoughtful adjustments, you can create an environment that’s not only beautiful but practical, too.

In fact, keeping your entryway tidy and seasonally appropriate can make your home feel more organized and less stressful. Plus, when you walk in, you’ll immediately feel that cozy, fall vibe. So, let’s dive into the 10 must-remove items from your entryway before you start decorating for the season.

1. Summer Wreaths and Floral Arrangements

Summer wreaths and floral arrangements are lovely, but they can quickly feel out of place as fall arrives. Those bright colors and cheerful flowers just don’t give off the cozy, warm vibe that fall demands. Instead of holding onto the remnants of the sunny season, it’s time to make space for wreaths and floral displays that reflect the mood of fall.

Removing summer florals helps create a cohesive transition into the season. Fall-inspired wreaths, such as those made of dried leaves, berries, and twigs, give a welcoming, rustic look. Not only will this make your entryway feel more aligned with the cooler months, but it will also help in focusing the eye on fall decor, creating a feeling of calm.

You don’t have to completely toss your summer wreath — store it safely for next year. Think of it as preparing your space to reflect fall’s beauty and changing energy.

2. Excessive Outdoor Cushions and Pillows

Excessive cushions and pillows can be a cozy summer essential, but once the weather cools, they can start to feel a bit misplaced in your entryway. Plush, colorful pillows in bright fabrics work well for the summer, but as fall sets in, they can make your space look cluttered and out of sync with the season. Instead, try swapping out your summer cushions for cozy, textured throws and blankets in fall colors.

Cushions and pillows that don’t align with fall’s aesthetic can make your entryway feel overwhelming. Fall favors simpler, cozier textures like wool, plaid, and knit, which invite warmth and comfort.

• Focus on comfort: Replace the colorful cushions with soft, neutral throws or blankets.
• Texture matters: Choose throws that add texture and warmth, like wool or knitted blankets.

This simple change instantly upgrades the space to a more fall-appropriate look while still keeping the cozy vibe intact. It’s about balancing style with comfort to make your entryway a relaxing, welcoming space.

3. Summer Shoes and Sandals

When was the last time you wore sandals in the middle of autumn? Exactly. It’s time to move those summer shoes to the back of your closet and make space for fall footwear like boots and closed-toe shoes. Keeping sandals and open-toed shoes in your entryway can look disorganized and out of place as temperatures drop. Fall is all about cozying up, and your shoes should reflect that change.

By removing summer shoes, you’re not only creating more space, but you’re also adding a touch of fall organization. Consider adding boots and stylish closed-toe shoes to your entryway, which are more suited for the season. This makes your entryway both practical and seasonally appropriate.

• Keep it tidy: Store sandals and summer shoes in a closet or under a bench.
• Make room for fall essentials: Place boots or shoes that are practical for the weather near the door.

Having the right footwear easily accessible will keep your entryway clutter-free and organized, so you can transition effortlessly into the fall season. A clean, organized space is key to making your home feel fresh and ready for the season.

For more tips on keeping your entryway organized, check out this article from The Spruce on how to prepare your entryway for fall.

4. Beach Towels and Sunscreen

Beach towels and sunscreen are undoubtedly symbols of summer fun, but as the seasons change, they have no place in your entryway. These items take up space that could be better used for fall essentials. Storing them away until next year is a simple but effective way to make your entryway feel more seasonally appropriate.

Getting rid of these items is an essential step toward the seasonal transition. It clears up space, making your entryway look tidier and ready for the cooler weather. Instead of towels and sunscreen, consider replacing them with scarves, hats, or umbrellas, which are much more fitting for fall.

By removing these items, you’re not only organizing your space but also setting the stage for the fall vibe you’re aiming for — cozy and warm. If you’re looking for more tips on organizing and decluttering, check out these 9 must-know decluttering tips for homeowners.

5. Bright Summer Mats or Rugs

Bright-colored summer rugs, often featuring floral patterns or beach motifs, may have looked great in the heat of the summer, but they no longer fit the mood as the air turns crisp. Replacing these rugs with something in autumnal shades like deep oranges, browns, or muted reds will immediately bring the feel of fall into your entryway.

The rug you choose for your entryway plays a significant role in setting the mood for the entire space. A fall-colored rug with rich, warm tones will instantly add warmth and coziness, making the transition from summer to fall smoother and more cohesive.

A fall rug doesn’t just improve the aesthetic — it also makes your entryway feel inviting, especially when paired with other seasonal decor.

6. Outdoor Play Equipment

For households with children, it’s likely that the entryway has been home to various outdoor play equipment throughout the summer. Whether it’s bikes, balls, or inflatable items, these summer toys should be packed away to make room for fall essentials like boots and rain gear.

Clutter-free entryways are essential for an organized, welcoming space, especially as the weather gets cooler. Removing outdoor play equipment helps your entryway feel more fall-ready, while also ensuring that the space doesn’t get crowded with items you won’t need until next summer. Need more ideas on how to keep your home organized? Check out these 8 proven decluttering tips from professional organizers.

• Store play equipment: Place toys and inflatables in storage bins or a closet.
• Focus on practicality: Make room for coats, boots, and fall accessories that you’ll actually use.

7. Old Mail and Unwanted Paperwork

Ah, the dreaded pile of mail. It’s a common entryway problem, and it tends to accumulate quickly. As the seasons change, it’s the perfect time to tackle the mountain of old mail and paperwork that often gets left on entryway tables, countertops, or by the door. For more ways to get your space organized, be sure to check out how to create a decluttering schedule for a tidier home.

A clean entryway reflects a calm, clutter-free space, which is exactly what you want as fall sets in. The entryway should feel welcoming, not overwhelmed by unopened bills, junk mail, and random papers. Take the time to organize or shred unwanted paperwork, and create a space where important documents are easily accessible, but not crowding your door.

It’s about creating a more organized and peaceful entryway, which will allow you to enjoy the beauty of fall without the stress of clutter.

For more tips on how to decorate and organize your entryway for the season, check out Better Homes & Gardens’ fall decorating ideas.

8. Old Summer Candles and Fragrances

If your entryway is still holding onto floral or citrus-scented candles, it’s time to make the switch. While these fragrances are perfect for the sunny days of summer, they don’t evoke the cozy, inviting feel that fall demands. Replace those bright, summery scents with warm, spicy fall fragrances like cinnamon, apple, or pumpkin.

The scent of your entryway is just as important as its visual appeal. Swapping out summer scents for more autumn-inspired fragrances will help set the tone for the entire space, creating a cozy atmosphere that instantly makes you feel at home.

The right scent can completely change the mood of your entryway, making it a welcoming space that feels in tune with the season. Whether it’s a candle, diffuser, or potpourri, fall-inspired scents will enhance the feeling of warmth and relaxation.

9. Leftover Summer Decorations

Those seashells, beach signs, or brightly colored summer decor items might have been cute in the warmer months, but they no longer fit with the fall aesthetic. It’s time to clear out any lingering summer-themed decor and make space for pieces that reflect the colors and textures of fall.

This step is essential for enhancing the seasonal transition. The entryway is the first space guests encounter when they enter your home, so it should feel cohesive and aligned with the current season. By removing leftover summer decor, you create room for fall pieces that will tie the space together. Think of rich-colored pumpkins, dried flowers, or rustic baskets — all items that evoke the warmth and earthiness of fall.

10. Heavy Winter Gear (If Not Needed Yet)

If you’re in an area where the weather is still mild, you might not need those heavy winter coats, scarves, and gloves just yet. While it’s tempting to get everything ready for winter, it’s important not to overcrowd your entryway with gear that’s not immediately necessary. Store those bulky winter items and replace them with lighter fall gear like jackets, cardigans, and scarves.

Keeping your entryway free from heavy winter items helps create a space that’s not overcrowded and cluttered. When the cold weather finally arrives, you’ll be ready, but for now, a few lighter layers can keep the space feeling organized and functional.

This is about maintaining a balance — having just the right amount of seasonal gear accessible without overstuffing the entryway before it’s truly needed.

For more fall entryway decorating ideas, check out My Family Thyme for simple yet stylish tips on preparing your space for the season.

How to Reorganize Your Entryway for Fall

Once you’ve cleared out the summer items, it’s time to reorganize your entryway to make it functional and ready for fall. This is where the magic happens — creating a space that’s not only organized but also aligned with the season.

Here are a few tips to get your entryway fall-ready:

• Shoes & Boots: Store away any sandals or flip-flops and make room for fall footwear. Place boots near the door or in a designated basket to keep them organized and accessible.
• Baskets for Scarves & Leaves: Use baskets or decorative bins to store scarves, mittens, or even a few fallen leaves you’ve gathered. This not only adds a natural touch but also helps keep your entryway tidy.
• Hooks or Cubbies: Install hooks for coats or bags, keeping them within easy reach. Cubbies can help organize gloves, hats, and other fall accessories.

These changes will make your entryway functional and organized, offering a welcoming space that feels in tune with the season. A neat, well-organized entryway will immediately set the right tone for fall, creating a calm and cozy atmosphere as soon as you step inside.

Quick Fall Entryway Decor Ideas to Complement Your Space

Once the essentials are organized, it’s time to add those cozy touches that make your entryway feel like fall. Here are some simple, yet effective decor ideas to give your space the perfect autumn feel:

• Seasonal Wreaths: Swap out the summer wreath for a fall wreath. A wreath made of dried leaves, pinecones, or berries is a perfect way to greet guests and add texture to your door.
• Pumpkins: Nothing says fall like a few pumpkins. Use small, decorative pumpkins for a cozy, seasonal vibe. You can scatter them around your entryway, place them on tables, or use them as a centerpiece.
• Blankets & Throws: Add a few cozy fall blankets to your entryway bench or coat hooks. Rich, autumnal colors like burnt orange, deep red, and mustard yellow will make the space feel warm and inviting.
• Candles: Light some fall-scented candles. Cinnamon, apple, or pumpkin spice scents will create a comforting atmosphere in your entryway.

Adding these touches gives your entryway that instant cozy feel and makes it the perfect spot to welcome guests. Fall decor doesn’t have to be over-the-top; simple elements like a few pumpkins, a warm blanket, or a fall wreath can transform your entryway into a welcoming autumn haven.

Conclusion

As you can see, transitioning your entryway for fall is not just about decorating, but about organizing and making the space functional, too. By removing summer items, reorganizing key areas, and adding a few cozy touches, you can create an entryway that feels seasonal, inviting, and clutter-free.

Now it’s your turn! What items did you remove from your entryway for fall? Share your tips, or comment on how you plan to make your entryway more welcoming this season. Let’s continue the conversation!

And if you’re looking for more ways to refresh your home, visit Build Like New for expert advice, ideas, and inspiration to help you create the perfect fall home.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, individual preferences and circumstances may vary. Always use your discretion when making changes to your home or entryway.