How to Declutter Before the Holidays (Without Losing Momentum)

Katy Annulli
Nov 3
4 min read

The holidays are a time of celebration, connection, and joy—but they can also come with a lot of physical and mental clutter. Before the season kicks into high gear, a little intentional decluttering can go a long way in making your home feel lighter, calmer, and more welcoming.

Whether you're hosting gatherings, preparing for travel, or simply trying to enjoy your space, a quick pre-holiday declutter sets the stage for a more peaceful and enjoyable season.

Why Declutter Before the Holidays?

A quick pre-holiday refresh can have a powerful ripple effect across your entire season. Here’s why it’s worth prioritizing:

Make Space for Guests (and New Items Coming In)

Whether you're hosting family or just need room for new gifts, toys, or holiday supplies, clearing out unused items now creates space for what’s ahead. You’ll avoid the “where-do-I-put-this?” scramble and make your home feel more open and inviting.

Create a More Peaceful Environment

Holiday clutter (decorations, packaging, wrapping, shopping bags) builds fast. Starting with a simplified space helps you stay grounded. A calm environment supports your ability to be present—whether you're enjoying cocoa with your kids or wrapping gifts solo with a holiday movie in the background.

Prevent Stress During Decorating, Cooking, or Wrapping

There’s nothing more frustrating than searching through piles of stuff to find your favorite spatula or gift tags. Decluttering now makes your home functional—so when it's time to decorate the mantle, prep meals, or wrap gifts, everything you need is accessible and ready.

Feel More in Control During a Chaotic Time

Clutter creates visual and mental noise. When your physical space feels more orderly, your thoughts follow suit. This gives you a sense of control in a season that can otherwise feel rushed or overwhelming. It’s a gift to your future self.

The Best Part?

You don’t need to do a full-home overhaul. These changes don’t require perfection or Pinterest-worthy results.

Small, focused wins—like clearing a counter or donating a bag of toys—create real momentum. The goal is not to do everything. The goal is to do what matters, in a way that supports your peace.

Quick Declutter Wins That Make a Big Difference

1. Kitchen Counters & Drawers

Your kitchen will likely be the heart of holiday activity—between baking cookies, cooking family meals, and making coffee for guests, it needs to work with you, not against you. Start by clearing off the countertops of anything that doesn't serve you daily—appliances, papers, or knickknacks. Then take 15 minutes to go through your “junk drawer” or utensil drawers. Get rid of broken tools, expired coupons, or extra takeout menus. You’ll be amazed at how a clearer counter can make your entire home feel more organized and peaceful.

2. Gift Wrap & Supply Zones

Take inventory of your wrapping paper, tape, ribbon, gift tags, scissors, and bags. If your supplies are scattered across closets or bins, gather them into one central location. Toss out any rolls that are torn, short, or outdated, and organize what remains by category. If you attend holiday markets or gift exchanges, consider setting up a small “wrap-and-go” station with prepped tags and ribbon ready to grab. You’ll thank yourself when December gets busy.

3. Living Room Surfaces & Shared Spaces

These are the places your guests (and your family!) will spend the most time. Clutter can make a room feel smaller and more chaotic than it is. Start with visible surfaces: coffee tables, end tables, bookshelves, or console tables. Clear out anything that doesn’t belong—mail, toys, unread magazines, or empty mugs. Give each cleared surface a simple refresh with one intentional item: a candle, a small vase, or a festive decor piece. This shift not only clears the space but adds a welcoming touch.

4. Kids’ Toys & Closets

If you're a parent, you know the toy avalanche is real—especially leading up to the holidays. Now is a great time to involve your kids in choosing items to donate. Explain that making space allows room for new gifts and helps others who may not have as much. Sort out broken toys, outgrown clothes, or items they no longer play with. Make a “keep,” “donate,” and “trash” pile to keep it simple and manageable. Bonus: you’ll avoid post-holiday overwhelm by clearing space before new items arrive.

5. Entryway & Coat Closets

The entryway sets the tone for your home—and during the holidays, it often becomes a catchall for shoes, coats, and bags. Take a few minutes to declutter shoes you no longer wear this season, umbrellas you haven’t used, or reusable bags piling up. If you’re hosting, make space for guest coats or winter gear by moving off-season items to a different closet. Add a basket for hats and gloves and make sure there’s a clear spot for incoming mail or packages. A tidy entryway is both functional and welcoming.