Declutter before the holidays
The holiday season is just around the corner, and along with the joy of gatherings, decorations, and festivities, it can also bring a fair bit of chaos. One of the best ways to prepare is to declutter your home, creating a welcoming and organized space for family and friends. Let’s dive into five key areas that deserve your attention before the holidays hit!
Declutter Closets
Closets can easily become the catch-all for items we don’t know what to do with, but now is the perfect time to tackle them! Start by taking everything out of your closets. As you sort through clothes, shoes, and accessories, ask yourself if you’ve worn or used each item in the past year. If not, consider donating or selling it. Creating an organized closet not only makes it easier to find what you need but also frees up space for any new holiday gifts you might receive or need to hide for safe keeping until its gift giving time!
2. Toss or Donate Unused Kids' Toys
If you have kids, you know how quickly toys can accumulate. Before the holidays, take some time to go through their toy collection. Get your little ones involved by asking them to pick out toys they no longer play with. This not only helps them learn about sharing and giving but also creates space for new toys that may come from Santa. Toys that are in good condition can be donated to local charities, shelters, or even schools, spreading joy to other children in your community.
3. Bathroom Cabinet Clean Out
Holiday guests mean more foot traffic in your home, and a tidy bathroom can make all the difference. Start by emptying your bathroom cabinet and tossing any expired products, like old medications and beauty products. Organize what’s left by grouping items together—like skincare, haircare, and first aid supplies. This way, you’ll have a clean and functional space that’s ready for visitors. Plus, you’ll feel great knowing you’ve eliminated clutter and made room for any new products you might receive as gifts!
4. Freezer Clean Out
When holiday cooking and baking start, having a clutter-free freezer is essential. Begin by pulling everything out and checking expiration dates. If you find mystery containers or items you no longer recognize, it’s time to let them go! As you reorganize, group similar items together, and consider making a list of what’s left to avoid overbuying during your holiday grocery runs. A clean freezer means you can easily store all those holiday leftovers, baked goods, and perhaps even a pre-prepared meal for a busy night!
5. Pantry Clean Out
Finally, don’t forget about the pantry! A well-organized pantry is key to successful holiday cooking. Start by removing everything from the shelves, checking for expired items, and getting rid of anything you won’t use. Next, group your items by category—canned goods, grains, snacks, etc. This will not only make it easier to find what you need while cooking but also give you a clear view of what you have on hand, helping you plan your holiday meals without unnecessary trips to the store.
Wrapping It Up
Decluttering these five areas will set you up for a stress-free and joyful holiday season. Not only will you enjoy a more organized home, but you’ll also create a welcoming space for your loved ones. So grab some boxes and bags, put on your favorite holiday tunes, and get to decluttering—your future self will thank you! Happy holidays!
