7 Summer Items You'll Regret Throwing Out, According to Pro Organizers

Bulky Planters

Despite the space they take up, professional tidying coach Meera Sharma says bulky planters are a must-keep item for next summer's growing escapades. "Buying new ones involves not only extra expense, but often some heavy lifting and carrying that could have been avoided," Sharma says.

Consider properly emptying and cleaning out-of-use planters and filling them with plants that thrive in the fall. There are a variety of fall container plants to consider growing, including chrysanthemums, pansies, and lamb's ears.

Sunscreen

Instead of throwing out that half-used bottle of sunscreen from the family beach trip, professional organizer Martha-Carol Stewart says to keep it on hand. If you’re outdoors at all during the year (in any month), you should likely be wearing sunscreen. She finds it particularly helpful for fall activities and events, such as kids’ sporting events, festivals, fishing, and gardening. 

However, before using sunscreen that wasn’t recently purchased, check the expiration date. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, most sunscreens are good for about three years after opening, but this can vary depending on brand and formula.

Outdoor Cushions

Nikki Boyd, author of the Beautifully Organized book series, recommends holding onto outdoor cushions—even if they appear weather-worn.

To keep them in shape for next season, consider washing them and allowing them to thoroughly air-dry before storing. (This step is critical to avoid mold and mildew from settling in.)

If a deep cleaning didn’t eradicate stains, consider purchasing a new cover. It'll be less expensive than replacing the entire cushion.

Grill Racks and Toppers

Grill racks and other accessories might be caked with grime from a summer filled with perfectly cooked hamburgers and steaks—but they're worth taking the time to clean. "Repurchasing them involves expense, time, and effort that we could invest in something else,” says Sharma.

Our experts recommend soaking your racks and toppers in warm, soapy water. If they’re made of stainless steel, clean only with stainless steel-safe cleaner.

Leftover Paper Goods

Fourth of July parties, birthday celebrations, and cookouts abound during the summer, which means paper goods do, too. Stewart recommends using these leftover paper goods for craft projects, dinners when you don’t feel like doing the dishes, or for a child’s afterschool snack.

Classic and Well-Fitting Clothing and Accessories

Summer clothing (like wide-brimmed hats and swimsuits) is pricey to replace and might be difficult to find in the off-season if ever needed.

Take the time to elevate your seasonal clothing before donating. Let go of anything ill-fitting, but hang onto garments and accessories in timeless styles that fit and will look good season after season.

Beach Towels

Even if the towel in question is thin and not suitable for the pool next season, it can still be useful year-round. "Who wants to use a 'good' towel to dry the dog after he has run through the mud or wipe a kid down after splashing in rain puddles?" Stewart asks. "These well-loved towels are perfect for the messier jobs."