Easy Ways to Declutter Decorations After the Holidays

Materials or Tools Needed

• Storage bins or boxes (preferably clear or labeled)
• Trash bags for broken or unusable items
• Donation boxes or bags (consider saving slightly larger boxes from deliveries to hold donation items until the box fills up for an easy trip to the donation center)
• Sticky notes or labels
• A pen or marker

Your Game Plan to Declutter Decorations After the Holidays

1. Set the Stage to Declutter Decorations

Pick a time when you’re not rushed and have enough space to spread out your decorations. Lay out all your holiday items so you can see what you have.

2. Sort by Category

Group similar items together (e.g., ornaments, lights, wreaths). This makes it easier to assess what you have.

3. Evaluate Each Item

Ask yourself these questions:

• Is it in good condition?
• Did I use it this year?
• Does it still fit my style or holiday theme?
• Would someone else enjoy it more than I do?

4. Decide on Action

• Keep: Items you love and use regularly go back into storage. Consider using labeled bins to keep everything organized.
• Donate: Gently used decorations that no longer suit your taste can bring joy to someone else. Check with local charities or thrift stores for donation guidelines.
• Toss: Dispose of anything broken, damaged beyond repair, or unusable.

5. Clean Before Storing

Wipe down decorations, especially those that collect dust or glitter. This ensures they’re fresh and ready for next year.

6. Store Thoughtfully

Use sturdy, well-labeled bins to protect your decorations. Place heavier items on the bottom and delicate items on top. Consider clear bins so you can easily identify what’s inside.

Benefits of Decluttering Decorations After The Holidays

Decluttering after the holidays while putting away decorations saves you from revisiting these items later in the year. It simplifies future holiday preparations, ensures you’re only storing what you truly love and use, and makes finding items easier next year. Plus, donating unused decorations can brighten someone else’s holidays.

Pro Tips to Declutter Decorations After the Holidays

• Set a Rule: Adopt a “one in, one out” rule. For every new decoration you buy, let go of one you no longer use.
• Create a Tradition: Turn this decluttering process into a family activity. Share stories about certain decorations and decide together which ones to keep or donate.
• Digital Inventory: Snap photos of your decorations before storing them. This helps you remember what you have without opening every box. Alternatively, tape the photos to the outside of the box for a quick visual reference.
• Donate Early: If you’re donating items, aim to do it soon after the holidays. Many charities accept holiday decorations right after Christmas to prepare for next year’s sales. Items like ornaments, wreaths, and unused string lights are often in high demand. Organizations such as Goodwill or Habitat for Humanity ReStores are great places to start.

What You’ll Gain

When you’re finished, you’ll have an organized and clutter-free storage area. Next year, decorating will be faster, easier, and more enjoyable. You’ll also feel good knowing you’ve donated items to those who can use them, making your holiday season a little brighter for others.

Conclusion

Decluttering your holiday decorations doesn’t just save space—it reduces stress and helps you start the new year with a more organized home. By donating items you no longer use, you’re also giving back to your community. It’s a win-win situation that will make next year’s decorating process even more delightful.

Start Decluttering Decorations Now!

Ready to tackle your holiday decorations? Grab your bins and start decluttering today! Share your success stories in the comments. And don’t forget to spread the cheer by donating unused decorations to those in need!

Ready to keep the organizing momentum going? Check out these simple tips for arranging your apps alphabetically to keep your devices clutter-free.