Organizing the Cottage for the Summer Season
There’s nothing quite like opening the cottage for the summer—the smell of pine needles warming in the sun, the slap of a screen door, and a summer soundtrack on the radio. For many Canadians, cottage life is not just a vacation: it’s a deeply rooted tradition, passed down through generations, tied to the rhythms of nature and long summer days.
Whether you're returning to your family retreat or preparing a rental for guests, a well-organized cottage sets the tone for a season of ease, connection, and joy. As a professional home organizer and KonMari consultant, I believe every space should support your ideal lifestyle. Your cottage, no matter how rustic or refined, should be no exception.
Start by arriving with presence. Before the scrubbing or sorting begins, take a quiet walk through your cottage. Open windows wide. Let in the breeze and the scent of earth and water. This "reset" helps you reconnect with the space and see it with fresh eyes. It also gives you a chance to assess: What’s needed? What’s missing? What’s no longer serving you?
If it’s your first time back this year, check for any winter damage, dampness, or unwanted critter activity. Test smoke detectors, inspect fire extinguishers, and take inventory of linens, pantry goods, and cleaning supplies. For rental cottages, this is also when you make sure everything feels safe, simple, and thoughtfully stocked.
Cottage life is about simplicity. Use that mindset when decluttering: keep only what adds to the experience.
Summer wardrobe: pare down to swimsuits, breathable layers, a few cozy knits for cool nights, and sturdy shoes for rocky paths.
Kitchen tools: think simple and social—grill tools, a big salad bowl, marshmallow skewers, and unbreakable outdoor dishes.
Linens: limit to what you need for your typical guest count, plus one extra set.
If you rent your cottage out, remove any personal or excess items and aim for a calm, clutter-free space. Guests will appreciate room to unpack and breathe.
Cottage culture in Canada is rich with small but meaningful rituals: paddling out at sunset, card games by lamplight, barefoot breakfasts on the dock. Let these traditions guide how you organize your space.
Set up “experience zones”: a beach bin with towels and sunscreen, a basket of board games, or a well-stocked shelf with puzzles and local guidebooks.
Keep outdoor gear accessible: fishing rods, paddles, folding chairs, and life jackets all deserve clearly labeled storage.
Stock for rainy days: cozy throws, books, candles, and your family’s favourite stormy-day comforts.
Think of your cottage as the backdrop to these traditions—it should make these moments easier, not harder, to enjoy.
One of the joys of cottage life is how closely we live with nature. Reflect that in your organizing style: natural materials, open shelving, and simple textures help spaces feel relaxed and connected.
Embrace imperfection: weathered wood, stones collected from the lake, and vintage finds can add character.
Avoid over-decorating. Let the views, sounds, and scents outside be the main attraction.
Create quiet corners: a Muskoka chair under a tree, a hammock with a view, or a reading nook by a window.
When we slow down and simplify our surroundings, it becomes easier to listen to ourselves, to each other, and to the wilderness just beyond the door.
If you’re renting out your cottage, thoughtful organization makes all the difference. Keep things intuitive and low-maintenance.
Simple labels and instructions for appliances and cottage quirks.
A laminated welcome sheet or guest binder with local tips, maps, and emergency info.
Open storage or labeled bins for kitchen basics and cleaning supplies.
It’s also helpful to keep a private and locked “owner’s closet” for personal items between stays. This streamlines turnover and gives guests a cleaner, calmer space to settle into.
Once the sorting and sweeping are done, take a moment to pause. Maybe you’re sitting on the dock, listening to loons echo across the bay. Maybe it’s the hum of cicadas as the sun sets behind the trees. Whatever it is …notice it and live in the moment. Organizing a cottage isn’t just about tidiness. It’s about creating a simple sanctuary for easy enjoyment and making memories.
Cottage life, at its heart, is about joy, tradition, and togetherness. When your space is organized with care and intention, you give yourself and your guests the freedom to fully soak up the season. So, whether you’re heading to the water every weekend or welcoming visitors into your piece of paradise, let your cottage reflect the kind of summer you want to have: slow, beautiful, and full of heart.
The accompanying photo was taken at gorgeous Healey Lake by Daryl Baker.
If you want some help with your cottage, I’m just a call or email away!