The holidays are magical, but they can also be chaotic. From boxes of decorations and gift wrap to hosting guests and last-minute shopping hauls, it’s easy for things to get out of hand. The good news? With a little pre-planning, you can create a home that’s holiday-ready and clutter-free. Let’s tackle the biggest sources of holiday clutter head-on.
1. Declutter Before Decorating
Before you dig into the decorations, take a moment to declutter.
- Start with Surfaces: Clear tables, mantels, and countertops to make space for holiday décor without creating a cramped look.
- Assess Your Decorations: If you haven’t used certain items in years, it’s time to donate or toss them. Keep only what you love and use.
- Create a Decorating Plan: Decide which areas of your home will be decorated and keep it focused. This prevents overloading every corner and keeps things tidy.
Pro Tip: Store decorations in labeled bins so they’re easier to find and pack away next year.
2. Tidy Up Common Areas for Guests
Hosting holiday guests? Focus your efforts on decluttering and organizing the spaces they’ll use most:
- Entryway: Create a clutter-free first impression by clearing shoes, coats, and other items. Use hooks or bins for temporary storage during parties.
- Living Room: Arrange seating and keep clutter like magazines or toys out of sight.
- Guest Bathroom: Stock it with fresh towels, soap, and extra toilet paper while keeping counters clear of unnecessary items.
Pro Tip: Set up a designated area for guests’ coats and bags to keep them out of the way during gatherings.
3. Control Gift-Wrap Chaos
Gift-giving is wonderful, but all the wrapping paper, bows, and tape can quickly create a mess. Stay organized with these tips:
- Create a Wrapping Station: Use a small table or cart to store paper, scissors, tape, and tags in one place.
- Use Vertical Storage: A hanging organizer or a tall bin is perfect for rolls of wrapping paper.
- Declutter as You Wrap: Keep a recycling bag nearby for scraps and packaging to avoid a pile-up.
Pro Tip: Reuse gift bags and bows whenever possible—they save time, money, and space!
4. Organize Holiday Cooking Supplies
The kitchen is a hotspot during the holidays, and clutter can make it harder to enjoy.
- Clear Out the Fridge and Pantry: Toss expired items to make room for holiday ingredients and leftovers.
- Streamline Countertops: Store appliances you don’t need during the holidays to create more prep space.
- Prep Serving Ware: Set out platters, trays, and utensils in advance so you’re not scrambling during a party.
Pro Tip: Use clear containers for holiday treats and snacks to keep them fresh and easy to access.
5. Manage Post-Holiday Cleanup
Once the holidays wind down, clutter often lingers. Here’s how to make cleanup easier:
- Sort as You Go: While un-decorating, separate items you didn’t use or no longer need for donation.
- Invest in Storage Solutions: Use stackable bins, labeled boxes, and dividers to keep everything organized for next year.
- Recycle Gift Wrap and Boxes: Flatten boxes and recycle what you can to cut down on trash.
Pro Tip: Keep a bin or bag handy for holiday returns and exchanges to avoid losing receipts or forgetting items.
Stay Festive Without the Stress
The holidays are about joy and connection—not stressing over clutter. By planning ahead, focusing on key areas, and making a habit of decluttering, you can enjoy a festive, tidy home all season long. If things start feeling overwhelming, remember: we’re here to help. Whether you need a quick cleanout or help tackling post-holiday messes, reach out to schedule a clutter-busting session today!