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Decluttering After the Holidays: Tips to Start Fresh

Writer's picture: Xtreme AudacityXtreme Audacity

Updated: Jan 14





The holiday season is a time of joy, celebration, and togetherness. Yet, as the decorations come down and the parties end, many of us are left with a home that feels more chaotic than festive. The aftermath can be overwhelming, from unopened gifts and leftover party supplies to stray ornaments and a packed fridge. But fear not! Decluttering after the holidays is not only possible but can be a refreshing way to start the new year with a clean slate. Here are some practical tips to help you tackle post-holiday clutter and set the stage for a more organized and peaceful year ahead.


1. Reflect and Reassess

Before diving into the clutter, take a moment to reflect on the holiday season. Ask yourself:

  • What went well?

  • What could be improved next year?

Understanding what worked and what didn’t can help you plan more effectively for the future. For instance, if you find yourself overwhelmed by holiday decorations, you might decide to simplify next year’s décor. Reflection not only informs future decisions but also mentally prepares you to declutter with purpose.


2. Sort Holiday Decorations Before Storing

Holiday decorations are often the first items we encounter during post-holiday cleanup. Instead of hastily packing everything away, take the time to declutter your collection.

  • Assess each item: If you didn’t use certain decorations this year, consider whether you’ll realistically use them in the future.

  • Repair or discard: Toss broken ornaments or tangled lights that no longer work.

  • Store like items together: Storing like items together will help with space consolidation, will give you clarity on what you have and minimize time spent on decorating next year.

  • Label storage bins: Clear labels make it easier to find specific items next year.

By curating your holiday decorations, you’ll save time and space when the next holiday season rolls around.


3. Tackle Gift Overload

While gifts are a delightful part of the holidays, they can quickly contribute to clutter if not managed properly. Here’s how to approach gift overload:

  • Sort new items: Decide which gifts to keep, re-gift, or donate. It’s okay if a gift doesn’t align with your needs or preferences.

  • Don’t keep it: If you receive gifts that don’t align with your needs or preferences, do not keep it just because you love the person that gave it to you.

  • Incorporate the “one in, one out” rule: For every new item brought into your home, remove an old one. This rule keeps clutter in check.

  • Organize exchanges: If you’re part of a gift exchange tradition, consider suggesting non-material gifts next year, such as experiences or charitable donations.


4. Declutter Your Kitchen

The holidays often leave behind an abundance of food and kitchen supplies. Take the time to streamline this space:

  • Sort leftovers: Send food home with family and friends and discard expired or spoiled food and freeze what you can for later use.

  • Evaluate cookware: If you found yourself using certain pans, dishes, or gadgets excessively while others went untouched, consider donating the unused items.

  • Organize party supplies: Keep only the essentials, such as reusable tableware or decorations, and discard single-use items.

A clean and organized kitchen will make everyday meal prep more enjoyable.

For more details on how to organize room by room check out our blog on The Decluttering Guide.


5. Address Wrapping Supplies

Wrapping paper, ribbons, and gift bags can easily pile up after the holidays. To avoid a mountain of supplies:

  • Consolidate leftovers: Gather all wrapping supplies in one place.

  • Reuse or recycle: Save gift bags and bows in good condition, and recycle used wrapping paper.

  • Store thoughtfully: Use a dedicated bin or container to keep supplies organized and accessible.


6. Donate Generously

The post-holiday season is an excellent time to give back to your community. As you declutter, identify items in good condition that could benefit others:



  • One in, One out: Remember, For every new item brought into your home, donate an old one. This rule keeps clutter in check.

  • Reciprocity: The law of reciprocity helps children feel good about donating their items and teaches them to not hold onto things that are no longer serving them. 

  • Clothing: Donate winter wear, such as coats and sweaters, that you no longer use.

  • Toys: Pass along gently used toys to local charities and/or shelters.

  • Household items: Consider donating duplicate or unused items, such as kitchen gadgets or home décor.

Many organizations accept donations after the holidays, and your contributions can make a meaningful impact.


7. Organize Paperwork and Cards

Holiday cards and receipts are another source of post-season clutter. Here’s how to handle them efficiently:

  • Save memories: Keep a few special cards in a memory box or scrapbook. Save addresses and contact info in your phone.

  • Shred or recycle: Dispose of cards and envelopes that you don’t plan to keep.

  • Sort receipts: Organize and store receipts for returns or tax purposes, then discard any unnecessary ones.


8. Create a Decluttering Schedule

Decluttering doesn’t have to be a marathon. Break it into manageable tasks:

  • Set a timer: House just needs refreshing… Dedicate 15-30 minutes each day to decluttering.

  • Plan your organizing sessions: House needs an organize makeover… Schedule organizing focus time on your calendar to where you can focus on one area for 1 - 2 hours. Do not exceed 2 hours to avoid overwhelm.

  • Focus on ONE area at a time: Start with high-traffic areas, such as the living room or kitchen, before moving to lesser-used spaces.

  • Celebrate progress: Acknowledge your achievements as you go to stay motivated.


9. Establish New Systems

Once you get begin to get rooms organized create a new system and plan to maintain organization throughout the year:

  • Use storage solutions: Invest in bins, baskets, or shelves for items you have decided to keep after decluttering and that suit your space.

  • Adopt routines: Create daily or weekly habits for tidying up each space.

  • Involve the family: Encourage everyone to participate in maintaining a clutter-free home.


10. Embrace Minimalism

The holidays often highlight how much we already own. Use this opportunity to embrace a more minimalist mindset:



  • Prioritize quality over quantity: Focus on owning fewer, high-quality items that bring you joy and serve a purpose.

  • Practice gratitude: Appreciate what you have instead of accumulating more.

  • Simplify celebrations: Consider scaling back on decorations, gifts, and events to reduce stress and clutter in the future.


11. Plan for Next Year

Finally, take proactive steps to make next year’s holiday season smoother and more organized:

  • Create a holiday binder: Keep track of gift lists, recipes, and event plans in one place.

  • Budget for the holidays: Set financial limits to avoid overspending on decorations or gifts.

  • Evaluate storage needs: Ensure you have enough space to store holiday items without crowding your home.


Final Thoughts

Decluttering after the holidays can feel daunting, but it’s an opportunity to start fresh and set the tone for a more organized year. By reflecting, sorting, and implementing thoughtful systems, you’ll not only regain control of your space but also cultivate a sense of peace and productivity. Remember, organization is a lifestyle, not magic. Take it step by step, and enjoy the rewards of a clutter-free home. SYSTEM… Saving You Space Time Energy & Money!!!



Here are some organized solutions to help you start your year off right!

(This post contains affiliate links to Amazon from which I make a small commission with no extra costs added to you.)


Cheers to a successful organizing journey!!


Until Next Time,

TakillaRene

Xtreme Audacity LLC


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