How to Declutter and Organize Before the Holidays

The holiday season is right around the corner, and there’s something about a well-organized, clutter-free home that makes it feel even more magical. So why wait? Now is the perfect time to refresh your space and start decluttering for Christmas. In this guide, I’ll walk you through practical steps to declutter and organize each part of your home before the holidays begin. Imagine starting December with a refreshed home and a clearer mind! 

Decluttering and Organizing Clears Your Mind

If life feels heavy, decluttering and organizing a space, whether for Christmas or any time, can actually reduce the feeling of being overwhelmed and clear your mind.

Have you ever felt something is off and can’t pinpoint the issue? I work from home, and after we got our new puppy, I decided to work from the dining room table to keep an eye on her. Four months later, my home office, a spare room, became a catch-all for everything, and I was still working at the table.

I had this heavy feeling for weeks and I could not pinpoint the issue – was it because we were new puppy parents, or was it because our home projects were falling behind because I was traveling a lot for work?

One afternoon, I decided to declutter and clean my office. And it lifted my spirits! After I was done, I felt like I had my life back. I needed an organized workspace to clear my mind.

So, before you start decorating for the holidays, think about spaces that need a minor update or areas with too much clutter. Addressing them will clear your mind first, I promise.

Organizing for the Holidays

No worries if you are just starting your decluttering journey; there is no better time to start. Let’s create beautiful, organized spaces as we start decluttering for Christmas. Don’t let yourself get overwhelmed. I have separated this by room and area, so put on some Christmas music, pick one room or area, and let’s get started!

Declutter the Main Living Space

Decluttering your living room, entryway, and dining areas to clear the way for Christmas gatherings. 

Living and Family Room

Declutter All Surfaces

• Start by decluttering coffee tables, side tables, and shelves for Christmas. 
• Remove items that do not belong in the living room or that feel out of place. 
• Keep flat surfaces minimally decorated to create a sense of calm. Then, you can add a few festive touches like candles or seasonal decor.

Sort Through Storage

• If you have cabinets or a storage unit in the living room, sort through them and remove anything unnecessary. 
• Donate books, games, or anything else you no longer use. 
• Use baskets or small bins inside cabinets to separate categories like remotes, books, magazines, or seasonal blankets. Categorizing makes things easier to find.

Refresh Blankets & Pillows

• If necessary, change out your throw blankets and pillow covers. Keep, donate, store for another season, or toss the ones you are replacing. Wash or replace items as needed and store away out-of-season pieces. 
• Add a few cozy holiday-themed throws or pillows for a quick seasonal update.

Entryway

Organize Shoes and Outerwear

• Create a designated spot for shoes, coats, and winter accessories like hats and gloves. 
• We have a closet in our entry, but I keep the hats and gloves in baskets within my storage bench. Each home will be different; get creative with your storage solutions.
• If you don’t already have storage baskets or hooks, now is a great time to add them.

Set Up a Welcome Station

• Prepare a small tray or bowl for keys, mail, or other daily items to prevent clutter from accumulating. I put a bowl inside our entry table drawer.
• For the holidays, place a festive candle or bowl of pine cones near the entry to add that seasonal scent we all love. 

Dining Room or Dining Area

Declutter All Surfaces

• Clear the space of non-essential items, especially if your table is a catch-all spot.
• Only keep what you need, like placemats or a centerpiece on your dining or kitchen table.

Organize Dining Essentials

• Take time to organize items like special serveware, napkins, or table decor so they’re easy to access when setting up for Christmas dinner. 

Add a Few Cozy Finishing Touches

Once the main living areas are decluttered, add a few cozy elements for the holidays. Place a soft throw on the sofa, add a scented candle, change out your art prints, or display a vase with winter greenery. Little touches can go a long way in making your space feel festive and inviting.

Organize and Refresh the Kitchen for Holiday Cooking

The kitchen often becomes the heart of holidays, so decluttering and organizing for Christmas can make all the difference. You’ll enjoy stress-free cooking, baking, and hosting with a well-prepared space.

Decluttering Kitchen Counters for Christmas

Clear Non-Essentials

• Remove items from the countertops you won’t need during the holiday season. Put away small appliances, decorative pieces, or anything cluttering your workspace.
• Keep only the essentials, like a coffee maker, a cutting board, and maybe a bowl of seasonal fruits.

Create Holiday Prep Zones

• If you have the room, consider creating “zones” on the counter for specific tasks. For example, designate an area for baking (with flour, sugar, and mixing bowls nearby) and another for chopping and meal prep.
• This makes cooking and baking flow more smoothly, saving time and reducing the number of trips across the kitchen.

Refresh and Organize the Pantry

Sort and Purge Expired Items

• Go through your pantry shelves, check expiration dates, and remove anything expired or that you no longer plan to use. 
• Donate to a local food bank non-perishable items that are still good but won’t make it onto your holiday menu.
• Clear a shelf or section specifically for holiday ingredients, such as baking staples, canned goods, or other items you’ll need.

Group Similar Items Together

• Organize pantry items into categories—baking supplies, snacks, canned goods, and grains—and place them in labeled bins or storage containers. 
• If you do a lot of holiday baking, consider making a “baking bin” with essentials like flour, sugar, baking powder, vanilla extract, and chocolate chips, so it’s all ready to go. I actually have a bin above my fridge for all my baking essentials, including pans.

Clean and Organize the Fridge and Freezer

Declutter and Wipe Down

• Start by removing everything from the fridge and freezer. Toss any expired items or leftovers you’re not planning to use, then wipe down the shelves and drawers.
• A clean fridge feels much better and helps you see what you already have, so you’re less likely to overbuy holiday ingredients.

Designate Space for Holiday Dishes

• Plan a dedicated space for large holiday dishes, platters, or desserts. Clear out a shelf or drawer to avoid the last-minute shuffle when storing extra food.
• If you’re prepping ingredients in advance, label containers with their contents and dates to make it easy to find what you need.

Organize Condiments and Leftovers

• Place condiments in bins or trays on the door for easy access, and designate one area for leftovers to avoid things getting lost.

Prepare Holiday Serveware and Cooking Essentials

Gather Holiday Serveware

• Pull out special holiday serveware, including trays, serving bowls, and utensils, and make sure they’re clean and easy to access.
• Arrange these items on a designated shelf or in a cabinet close to the kitchen for easy access when serving guests.

Check Cooking Tools

• Double-check that you have essential holiday cooking tools in working order—think mixers, cookie sheets, roasting pans, and measuring cups.
• Now’s a good time to replace worn-out items or restock things like parchment paper, aluminum foil, and extra mixing spoons. Having everything in place makes cooking and baking smoother.

Organize Cabinets and Drawers

Decluttering Cabinets and Drawers for christmas

• Go through kitchen cupboards and drawers, removing duplicate items, broken tools, or anything you don’t use regularly. Donate or store what you don’t need.
• Organize tools by category—for example, group baking tools together in one drawer and cooking utensils in another so everything has a home.

Make Space for Holiday-Specific Items

• Dedicate a cabinet or drawer to holiday-specific items like cookie cutters, seasonal napkins, or festive serving pieces. This way, they’ll be easy to find and put away after the holidays.
• Consider using drawer dividers to keep smaller items like measuring spoons and cookie cutters organized and within reach.

Stock Up on Holiday Staples

Make a list of pantry and fridge staples you’ll need for holiday baking, cooking, and entertaining. Stock up now to avoid last-minute grocery store runs. Keep a small bin or section in your pantry for holiday treats and snacks so you’re always ready for unexpected guests or quick dessert ideas.

Tidy Up the Bedrooms and Closets

As the holidays approach, it’s helpful to refresh bedrooms for a cozy and welcoming feeling—whether for guests or a quiet escape at the end of a busy day. A quick decluttering and organizing of these spaces for Christmas can make them feel more restful and ready for the season.

Refresh the Guest Bedroom (or Create a Guest Area)

Declutter All Surfaces

• Clear surfaces like nightstands, dressers, and any available shelving, removing non-essentials. Keep only what a guest might need, like a reading lamp, clock, or small decorative item.
• If you don’t have a dedicated guest room, set up a small area with essentials in a spare bedroom or office to create a “guest zone.”

Prepare Fresh Linens

• Wash bed linens, blankets, and pillowcases, then neatly fold and store extra bedding in a closet or drawer nearby.
• If you have space, set out a small basket with fresh towels, toiletries, and a water bottle for a thoughtful touch.

Organize Closet Space for Guests

• Clear a section of the closet for guests to hang clothes or place bags.
• Include a few empty hangers and maybe a small luggage rack or space on a shelf for easy access. A clean, uncluttered closet makes it easy for guests to settle in comfortably.

Decluttering and Organizing Bedrooms for Christmas

Clear Off Nightstands and Dressers

• Remove any accumulated items on nightstands, dressers, or other surfaces. Keep only the essentials, like a lamp, book, or photo frame, and relocate anything that doesn’t belong.
• A simplified nightstand helps create a peaceful atmosphere that’s especially welcome during the busy holiday season.

Refresh Bedding and Add Cozy Layers

• Update your bedding with freshly washed or new linens. Add extra blankets, throws, or a few cozy pillows for warmth and comfort.
• A few seasonal touches, like wintery throw pillows or a textured blanket, can make the space feel more festive and relaxing.

Declutter Closets & Toys

Sort Through Clothing and Accessories

• Go through each section of your closet and donate or store any items you won’t use this season, especially summer clothes, sandals, or lighter accessories.
• Make more room by packing away off-season items into storage bins or a secondary closet. This keeps your current wardrobe easily accessible and uncluttered.

Organize by Category and Frequency

• Group clothes by type (sweaters, pants, coats) and organize each section so that the most-used items are within reach. Arrange clothing by color or category to make quick decisions.
• Use slim hangers to save space, and consider drawer dividers for accessories like scarves, belts, and hats. This will make dressing for the day or holiday events quicker and stress-free.

Maximize Space with Closet Organizers

• If space allows, add shelving, hanging organizers, or baskets, keeping frequently used items at eye level.
• Short on storage? Try using over-the-door organizers for shoes or accessories. This helps keep floors and shelves clear for a more open, spacious feel.

Give away toys to make room for new gifts

• As our kids age, we can accumulate a lot of toys, and I always find donating during the holidays the best time.
• Get rid of any toys that are broken or have missing pieces, and donate the toys they grew out of.
• You can explain what you are doing and why at a certain age, and they will understand. 

Create a Welcoming and Cozy Atmosphere

Add Christmas Decorations

• Small, subtle touches can make a bedroom feel festive without clutter. Consider adding a small garland, a seasonal candle, or a simple wreath on a wall.
• Choose items that require little surface space so your room remains clutter-free.

Set Up a Reading or Relaxation Nook

• If space allows, arrange a cozy corner with a comfortable chair, blanket, and good lighting. It’s a great spot for quiet moments and adds charm to your room.
• This can be a peaceful retreat for both you and your guests during the holiday season.

Incorporate Soft Lighting

• To create a cozy ambiance, swap bright overhead lighting for softer options like lamps, string lights, or battery-operated candles.
• String lights along a headboard or place a small lamp on a nightstand. This can make the bedroom feel extra inviting, especially during the winter months.

Prepare the Bathroom for Guests

A clean and organized bathroom makes a lasting impression on guests and adds to the comfort of your home during the busy holiday season. Taking time to tidy up and decluttering this room for Christmas will ensure it is welcoming, functional, and stress-free for everyone.

Declutter and Deep Clean the Bathroom

Clear Out Unnecessary Items

• Remove any non-essential items from countertops, the medicine cabinet, and drawers. Toss expired or unused toiletries, and keep only what you need for the holiday season.
• Store personal items in a designated cabinet or drawer, leaving only basic toiletries and decorative accents in plain sight.

Deep Clean for a Fresh Start

Give the bathroom a deep clean, focusing on areas like the sink, toilet, tub, and shower. Wipe down mirrors, polish fixtures, and replace or wash shower curtains.
A sparkling, clean bathroom feels good. Use natural, mild-smelling cleaners to avoid strong chemical scents.

Stock Up on Guest Essentials

Provide Fresh Towels and Toiletries

• Set out freshly laundered towels and keep extras within reach. Place travel-size toiletries, like toothpaste, shampoo, and soap, in a small basket for guests.
• Include small extras, like cotton swabs, makeup removers, and a few disposable toothbrushes. These thoughtful touches make guests feel at home.

Organize Under the Sink or in a Cabinet

• Organize under-sink cabinets or shelves with labeled bins or containers to organize items like cleaning supplies, extra toilet paper, and toiletries.
• Use clear bins or small baskets to keep everything contained. This setup also makes it easier to restock essentials when they run low.

Add a Few Welcoming Touches

Include Scented Soaps or Candles

• Place a seasonal candle, diffuser, or scented soap in the bathroom to add a beautiful but not overwhelming aroma.
• Choose subtle scents like eucalyptus or vanilla, which are calming and generally well-liked, or try a seasonal scent like peppermint.

Ensure Proper Lighting

• Check that the bathroom lighting is bright and inviting. If guests will be using the bathroom at night, consider adding a nightlight.
• A dimmable light or soft nightlight can create a gentle glow, adding warmth and ambiance to any bathroom.

Add Holiday Decor

• Consider seasonal touches, such as a small wreath on the door, a Christmas art print, a decorative hand towel, or a festive soap dispenser.
• Keep decor minimal to maintain a clean, spa-like feel while still taking into account holiday decorating.

Organize Holiday Decor for Easy Setup and Takedown

Setting up holiday decorations can be exciting, but organizing decor properly makes both setup and takedown much easier. By arranging items thoughtfully, you’ll have a stress-free way to decorate without facing a mess afterward.

Sort Seasonal Decorations by Area or Theme

Group by Room or Type

• Sort decorations by the room they’ll go in (living room, entryway, etc.) or by type (ornaments, lights, wreaths). Store each group in separate, labeled bins or boxes. I prefer by type, but this is a personal preference.
• Labeling bins with their contents, like “Christmas Tree Ornaments” or “Outdoor Lights,” allows for a quick and easy setup next Christmas.

Separate Fragile Items

• Place fragile ornaments and decor in padded containers, using bubble wrap or tissue paper to prevent breakage.
• Consider using a dedicated ornament organizer with dividers to keep everything safe and easily accessible.

Use Storage Solutions for Efficiency

Opt for Clear Bins

• Store decorations in clear bins so you can see their contents without opening each one. Stackable bins save space and make it easy to access specific items. I have tried both clear and colored bins; it is so much easier to find things when your bins are clear.
• By organizing based on accessibility, you’ll make setup and takedown smoother and more enjoyable each holiday season.

Organize Wrapping Supplies

• Designate a bin or cart for holiday wrapping paper, ribbons, gift boxes and tags. Keep everything organized and ready for gift-wrapping sessions.
• Use a portable wrapping cart or caddy to roll supplies to any room in the house, making wrapping Christmas gifts more convenient.

Finish with a Clean Sweep

A final clean-up makes your home feel ready and fresh for the holiday season. By tackling surface areas and floors, you’ll create a clean and tidy home that’s ready for guests and gatherings.

Dust and Wipe Down Surfaces

Dust All High and Low Surface

• Dust shelves, mantels, and light fixtures. Pay attention to overlooked spots like ceiling fans, baseboards, and windowsills.
• Start high and work your way down to avoid re-cleaning lower surfaces.

Wipe Down Frequently Touched Surfaces

• Wipe doorknobs, light switches, remotes, and other high-touch surfaces with a disinfectant or gentle cleaner.
• This step not only freshens your home but also helps reduce germs this time of year.

Vacuum and Mop Floors

Vacuum Carpets and Rugs

Vacuum all carpets and rugs thoroughly, especially in high-traffic areas. Consider steam cleaning if possible.
A quick spot-clean on rugs or carpets can help remove lingering stains and keep the space fresh. I like the green machine for this task.

Mop Hard Floors

• Mop hard floors in the entryway, kitchen, and main gathering spaces. Use a wood-safe cleaner for hardwood or laminate floors and a tile-safe cleaner in bathrooms and kitchens.
• Add a few drops of essential oil (like peppermint or orange) to your mop water for a subtle holiday scent throughout your home.

Final Touches for the Holidays

Add Cozy Scents

• Light a seasonal candle, use a diffuser, or I like to add a simmer pot of cinnamon and cloves on the stove to create a warm, yummy scent.
• Scents like pine, cinnamon, and vanilla are cozy and comforting. If you are not sensitive to smells, you will love these for the holiday season.

Arrange Fresh Flowers or Greenery

• Place a small greenery arrangement on a table, entryway, or mantle to add a touch of nature and color.
• Fresh greens or wintery accents like holly or pinecones also give a festive feel.

Dim the Lights and Set an Ambiance

• Use soft lighting or dimmer switches to create a relaxed evening atmosphere.
• String lights or battery-operated candles can add a cozy glow, making the space feel extra inviting for you and your guests.

The Result of Your Decluttering and Organizing Actions for Christmas

I hope you find this step-by-step decluttering process for Christmas helpful. A clean, organized, and beautifully decorated home is the beginning of a stress-free holiday season.

By dedicating time to decluttering, organizing, and cleaning each area, you’ll create a house where the whole family can truly relax and enjoy the holiday magic.

Which room or area did you tackle first? How did it feel? Let me know in the comments!

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