Declutter Your Way to a Stress-Free Holiday – 6 Key Areas to Focus on for Holiday Decluttering
Thanksgiving and the holidays are just around the corner! It’s a great time for family, food, and fun. But before the festivities begin, let’s talk about the real MVP of the holiday season: holiday decluttering.
Now, I know what you’re thinking. Decluttering before the holidays? Really? Trust me, it’s a game-changer. A clutter-free home equals a calm and relaxed you, so you can be ready to enjoy the holiday season to the fullest.
Now keep in mind, we’re not aiming for perfection here, just a space where you can truly relax and enjoy the company of your loved ones. A little holiday decluttering can go a long way in creating a serene and welcoming atmosphere.
In this post, I’ll share some tips for the key areas to declutter before the holidays arrive. Let’s get started!
6 Key Areas to Focus on for Holiday Decluttering
The Entryway
The entryway is the first impression guests have of your home. A cluttered entryway can create chaos and stress, but a clean and cutter-free entryway sets a welcoming tone for the rest of your home and for the holiday season. So let’s start our holiday decluttering here.
How to Declutter Your Entryway:
- Organize the Console Table: If you have a console table or shelf in your entryway, clear off any clutter such as keys, mail or other items that have collected over time, and keep only essential items. Wipe it down and then keep it simple and clutter-free. Tip: add a decorative basket so your guests have a place to put their car keys and other small items.
- Tidy the Floor: Use a shoe rack or basket to keep shoes organized and off the floor. This gives guests a clean and welcoming first impression.
- Hang Up Coats and Bags: If you have hooks or a coatrack, ensure your guests have a place for their coats and purses. Remove any personal items such as backpacks or bags that don’t belong.
By keeping your entryway tidy, you’ll create a welcoming and organized space for your guests.
Kitchen Command Center
The kitchen is the heart of your home, especially during the holidays. A cluttered kitchen can make meal prep stressful and more time-consuming both of which mean less time spent enjoying the season.
How to Declutter Your Kitchen:
- Clear the Counters: Remove any appliances, gadgets and other items that you do not use on a daily basis such as blenders, juicers or toasters. Put them in a cabinet or storage for the time being.
- Organize Your Pantry: An organized pantry makes finding ingredients faster and easier. Toss any expired items and group similar items together. Wash and refill empty containers.
- Clean Your Fridge: Give your fridge a thorough cleaning. Toss any expired food, wipe down shelves, and organize your food items for easy access.
- Tidy Up Food Prep Areas: Clear off your counters by removing any dirty dishes, papers, or unnecessary items. Give them a quick wipe-down to create a clean workspace. Set up designated areas for food prep and serving to streamline your cooking process.
- Organize Your Utensil Drawers: Tidy up your utensil drawers, tossing out anything you don’t use. Keep your most-used tools easily accessible to streamline your cooking process.
Dining Room
The dining room is the heart of your holiday feasts. It’s where memories are made, laughter is shared, and delicious food is enjoyed. Let’s ensure it’s ready to shine.
How to Declutter Your Dining Room:
- Clear the Table: Remove any clutter like mail, keys, or toys. Give the table a quick wipe-down to create a fresh surface. This is also a good time to begin setting the table for your holiday meals.
- Tidy Nearby Surfaces: Declutter and wipe down any other furniture such as a buffet, sideboard, or bar cart. Keep only the essentials out for the holiday.
- Prep Your Seating: Give your chairs a quick clean, wiping down to remove any crumbs or spills. Ensure they’re sturdy and comfortable for your guests.
By creating a clutter-free dining room, the area will feel more spacious and inviting. This will create a stress-free zone where everyone can gather around and enjoy the meal.
Living Room Oasis
The living room is where guests relax before or after the meal, and enjoy each others company. So let’s make it cozy and inviting.
How to Declutter Your Living Room:
Tame the Tech: Hide any cords and organize electronics.
Cozy Corner: Arrange pillows and blankets for a warm, inviting feel.
Declutter Surfaces: Clear off coffee tables, side tables, and TV stands, leaving only decorative or functional items.
Creating a clutter-free living room gives everyone space to relax and unwind.
Spa-Like Bathroom
Your bathrooms should feel clean and fresh, both for you and your guests.
How to declutter your bathrooms:
Countertop Clarity: Remove any unnecessary items like old toiletries.
Cabinet Cleanout: Make sure you have hand soap and lotions, as well as extra toiletries for any guests who will be staying with you.
Fresh and Fluffy: Replace old towels with fresh, fluffy ones.
Serene Sanctuary: The Bedroom
While the bedroom may not seem like a priority for holiday decluttering, having a calm and organized space can provide you with a much-needed retreat during the busy holiday season. Do the same for any guest rooms as well, especially if you have out of town guests coming.
Make Your Bed: A made bed instantly makes a room look tidier.
Closet Cleanout: Donate or sell clothes you no longer wear.
Nightstand Nirvana: Keep your nightstand clutter-free, with only essentials like a book, lamp, and alarm clock. Once cleared, wipe all of them down.
A clean bathroom makes guests feel welcome and cared for.
By tackling these key areas, you’ll transform your home into a serene, welcoming space whether its for Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, Christmas or any other holiday you celebrate.
Holiday decluttering doesn’t just make your home look better—it makes hosting a joy and helps you stay calm and focused.
What’s your go-to decluttering tip for the holidays? Let me know in the comments—I’d love to hear your ideas!
