Make Room for Joy

The best time to declutter your holiday decorations is before the holiday decorating season gets underway.  As you pull out bins, boxes, and bags filled with ornaments, wreaths, garlands, and lights, take a few minutes to look at what you actually use and love. A little editing now can make decorating easier, reduce stress, and make putting everything away much faster in January,

Why Declutter Holiday Décor in December?

• You can see what you really have.
  When decorations come out of storage, it’s easier to spot the things you haven’t used in years-or items that no longer fit your style.
• You will save space and reduce stress.
  A streamlined collection means quicker decorating, less digging, and easier storage after the holidays.
• Your future self will thank you.           Making decisions now means you won’t have to sort through the same unwanted decorations next year.

What Can Go?

As you decorate, set aside items that:

• No longer fit your style
• Are duplicates
• Stay in the box year after year
• You’ve been meaning to fix for more than a season or two
• You no longer love or use

Quick Sort Method: The 15-Minute Décor Reset

1. Pull out one category at a time: wreaths, garlands, ornaments, or lights.
2. Create four piles: Keep, Donate, Recycle, Toss
3. Focus on the “Keep” pile: These should be items you truly love and use.
4. Revisit the “Undecided” pile: Ask yourself—Will I display this this year? If not, let it go.
5. Pack and label clearly: Your future self will thank you during next year’s setup!

 Where to Donate Holiday Items

Before throwing something away, consider whether someone else might enjoy it.

Gently used holiday decor can often be donated to:

• Local thrift stores
• Community centers
• Churches or charity holiday bazaars
• Buy-nothing groups   Here is some information on the “Freecycle” program.
• Schools (many use decorations for events and plays)

Call ahead—some locations begin accepting holiday décor as early as October.
Check this article for more information on donating holiday items.

Final Thought

Decluttering holiday décor isn’t just about organizing your space—it’s about making room for joy, easing seasonal stress, and passing along cheer to others. A few intentional decisions now can make the entire season feel lighter and more meaningful.

It can be difficult to go through sentimental items without support.  Asking a friend, family member, or Professional Organizer can help keep you on track, and keep things in perspective, Here is a previous blog discussing the benefit of hiring an Organizer to help with this journey. Cheers to a bright holiday and a lighter future!