There’s something about the weeks before Christmas that makes me want to clear out every corner of my home. Maybe it’s the thought of guests stopping by. Maybe it’s the fact that new things are about to come in — gifts for the kids, holiday décor, extra groceries. Or maybe it’s just that I want to feel a little lighter before the chaos begins.
Whatever the reason, I’ve learned that decluttering before Christmas makes the season so much less stressful. You don’t have to do a full-on house purge — just a few targeted areas can make a big difference.
Here’s my go-to list of things to declutter before the holidays hit.
1. Kitchen Counters & Pantry
Between baking cookies, hosting dinners, and wrapping last-minute treats, your kitchen will be working overtime. Clear off those counters now so you have space to work.
In the pantry, toss expired snacks, stale crackers, and that random jar of sauce you’ve been avoiding. This makes room for holiday ingredients (and means you won’t have to dig through clutter while cooking).
2. The Fridge & Freezer
Before the Christmas ham, cheese boards, and leftovers roll in, clean out your fridge. Get rid of anything expired or questionable. Wipe down shelves.
The freezer? Same deal. Use up what you can now to free up space for holiday treats you can prep ahead.
3. Kids’ Toys
If you have little ones, you know the toy situation gets intense after Christmas. Before the new toys arrive, sit down with your kids and pick a few things to donate.
Tip: Call it a “toy swap.” You’re making space for fun, new things by passing on toys they’ve outgrown to another child who will love them.
4. Holiday Décor You Don’t Use
Every year, I find at least one box of ornaments or décor I haven’t touched in ages. If you haven’t used it in the past two Christmases, donate it. Someone else will get to enjoy it instead of it collecting dust in your attic.
5. The Entryway
Your front door area sets the tone for guests and for your own mood when you walk in. Clear out old shoes, coats you don’t wear, and stray mail. Add a little basket for incoming holiday cards so they don’t end up scattered around the house.
6. Gift Wrap Supplies
There’s nothing worse than starting to wrap gifts only to find your tape is gone and all your paper is crumpled. Before the wrapping marathon begins, go through your supplies. Toss anything torn, recycle cardboard tubes you’re done with, and make a list of what you need so you’re not rushing to the store mid-wrap.
7. Linen Closet
Guests coming to stay? This is the time to check your linens. Wash what you’ll need, donate extras you don’t use, and toss anything that’s too worn.
8. The “Junk Drawer”
We all have one. That place where rubber bands, batteries, mystery keys, and random bits of who-knows-what live. Spend 15 minutes tossing trash and putting useful items where they actually belong.
9. Bathroom Products
Go through your bathroom cabinets and drawers. Toss expired medicines, old makeup, and toiletries you never use. This clears space for any holiday guests to have room for their essentials — and it feels nice to start the new year fresh.
10. Your Digital Space
It’s not just about the physical stuff. Declutter your phone by deleting old screenshots, clearing emails, and organizing your camera roll. That way, you have space for all the Christmas photos you’re about to take.
A Few Tips for Making It Easier
- Set a timer. Work in 20–30 minute bursts so it doesn’t feel overwhelming.
- Start small. Pick one category and finish it before moving on.
- Keep donation bags ready. As you go, toss anything in good condition into a bag and drop it off at your local charity when you’re done.
Final Thoughts
Decluttering before Christmas isn’t about creating a Pinterest-perfect home. It’s about making space — both physically and mentally — so you can actually enjoy the season without tripping over clutter or feeling buried in stuff.
Think of it as giving yourself an early gift: more room, less stress, and a home that feels ready for whatever the holidays bring.
So grab a trash bag, put on your favorite Christmas playlist, and start clearing a little space. Your future holiday self will thank you.
