The holidays are approaching, and you might already feel the pressure of a cluttered home. You know the feeling: every drawer is overflowing, you don’t even want to look at it, and the thought of cleaning makes you sigh before you even start.
But it doesn’t have to be this way. A decluttering challenge before the holidays can turn your home into a calm, welcoming space.
Why Pre-Holiday Decluttering Matters?
You might think, why bother now? The truth is, starting early saves a lot of stress later.
Imagine the holidays rolling around, decorations unpacked, and guests arriving. A cluttered home can make you feel frazzled, no matter how festive your decorations are.
Here’s how decluttering before the holidays helps:
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Creates a calm and inviting environment.
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Makes decorating easier and more fun.
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Helps you find things you forgot you had.
And since the holidays often spill outdoors too, you may want to look at our blog on choosing outdoor cushions that are resistant to pet wear and tear. It’s a handy read for pet owners.
Step 1: Set the Stage
Before you start, you need to prepare. You don’t want it to feel like a punishment or a marathon you cannot finish.
Tips to set the stage:
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Pick one room to start. Do not try to tackle the entire house in one day.
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Gather basic cleaning supplies.
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Set aside boxes or bags for donations, recycling, and trash.
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Play your favorite music or podcast.
Step 2: The Sorting Game
You know that feeling when you open a drawer and things just spill everywhere? That’s where decluttering begins.
How to sort:
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Take one surface, drawer, or shelf at a time.
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Pick up each item and ask yourself: Do I use this regularly?
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Sort into three piles: Keep, Donate, Toss.
If something is broken beyond repair, let it go. If it’s gently used but no longer serves you, donate it. Once you clear out the excess, treat your desk to something that brings both order and warmth, like the Crunch Tan Leather Desk Mat.
Step 3: Home Clean-Up While You Declutter
Decluttering and cleaning often go hand in hand. Once an area is cleared, take a moment to wipe surfaces, vacuum, or dust. You’ll be surprised at how much cleaner your home feels immediately.
Quick cleaning checklist:
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Wipe countertops and shelves.
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Dust furniture and decorations.
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Vacuum or sweep floors.
If you have pets, like a curious kitten, make it safe for them. Don't just force them into a little room. Gather toys, litter boxes and feeding stuff where they're easily accessible to them as you clean.
Step 4: Tackle the Holiday Prep
Once you're done, it’s time for holiday prep. Decorations, special kitchen tools, and guest areas should be ready without clutter getting in the way.
Holiday prep tips:
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Store decorations in labeled bins.
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Set up a dedicated gift-wrapping station. A few essentials like tape, scissors, and ribbon go a long way.
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Plan guest areas early so you’re not scrambling at the last minute.
If you’re looking for fresh ideas, take a peek at this blog on holiday bedroom styling with fabrics that create hotel-like comfort.
Step 5: Keep the Calm
Cleaning isn't a one-time deal. You have to tidy up regularly or else it'll go back to the same mess from where it started. Small daily habits can help, without feeling like a chore.
Simple tips:
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Spend ten minutes each day putting things back where they belong.
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Keep everyday items in the same spot so you can always find them.
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Switch holiday decorations and seasonal stuff carefully. Keep what you need now easy to reach, and store the rest neatly.
Consider this Black & White Line Placemat Set; it’s simple, classy, and helps you maintain that “just cleaned” feeling longer.
From Cluttered to Calm
You might be starting to think: Isn’t all of this too much? Stop right there! Deep down, you know this is going to change your life one way or the other.
The comfort you’re seeking, the decluttering that’s going to organize your space, your thoughts, your life—all that is going to make you live the best version of yourself. And don’t you want that?
Remember, the goal is not perfection; it is progress. Celebrate each small win and enjoy the festive season in a home that reflects peace and comfort.
