Day 4: Stock Up On Summer Essentials | Simplified
Let’s get organized for summer together!☀️ Your task today is to take inventory of summer essentials and restock items as needed. We both know you’re going to need swim goggles and water bottles for everyone, so let’s get those things organized and stocked NOW so we can start summer feeling prepared instead of these little things becoming an emergency a month from now.
Get a big checklist of summer items to organize and restock in my free Summer Prep Guide. Visit the link in my bio to download it - the guide has 13 prep tasks to help you wrap up the school year well and start the summer of feeling organized!
#organizedhome #organizedwithkids #parentsoflemom8 #momsoflemon8 #momsover30
Wow, day 4 of summer prep already! It feels so good to tackle these tasks bit by bit, and today’s mission to stock up on summer essentials is probably one of the most impactful for a smooth season. When I first started trying to get organized, I used to just jot down a few things, but I’ve learned that a truly focused approach makes all the difference. It's not just about having some sunscreen; it's about having enough and knowing where it is! I've found that breaking down the "summer essentials" into categories really helps. Instead of just a generic list, I mentally (or actually!) divide my house into zones. 1. The "Out-the-Door" Essentials: This is your entry point to summer fun. Think about what you grab right before heading out. For me, that’s making sure our designated "summer bag" is always ready. It usually includes a fresh bottle of sunscreen (check expiration dates!), a small bottle of aloe vera gel (for those inevitable oops moments), bug spray, wide-brimmed hats for everyone, and sunglasses. I also make sure all the kids’ water bottles are accounted for and clean. Having a dedicated spot for these items near the door or in a basket means no last-minute scrambling. 2. Pool/Beach Bag Must-Haves: If swimming is a big part of your summer, this category is crucial. Beyond swim goggles for every family member, what else do you need? Fresh beach towels (are they still soft, or are they scratchy from last year?), extra swimsuits, a waterproof bag for wet clothes, and maybe some pool toys that are still in good condition. I also like to have a small, dedicated first-aid kit just for water activities – band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and sting relief are my go-tos. This focused check prevents disappointment when you’re already at the pool! 3. Outdoor Play & Adventure Gear: Does your family love hiking, biking, or picnics? Now’s the time to check on those items. Are the bike helmets still fitting correctly? Are the picnic blankets clean and free of holes? Do you have enough outdoor toys like frisbees, balls, or bubbles? I also make sure our cooler is clean and ready to go. This might seem small, but having these organized and restocked makes spontaneous adventures so much easier. 4. Home Comfort & Safety: Summer isn't just about leaving the house! What about staying comfortable at home? For me, this includes checking on things like citronella candles or diffusers for mosquito control on the patio, making sure the grill is clean and stocked with propane, and perhaps a fresh set of lighter-weight bedding. I also do a quick check of our general first-aid kit to ensure it's fully stocked for any scrapes or bumps that happen during backyard play. By taking this more focused approach to inventory and restocking, I feel so much more prepared. It’s amazing how much stress it prevents later. Instead of rushing to the store for sunscreen or a new pair of swim goggles when you're already trying to get out the door, everything is ready. This kind of systematic, thoughtful prep truly helps me start summer feeling totally organized and ready for anything. Trust me, a little bit of focused effort now saves a lot of headaches later, and it means more time enjoying those precious summer moments!