Decluttering after the holidays might seem like a daunting task, but it’s one of the most rewarding ways to reclaim your space and simplify your festive seasons moving forward. Knowing how to clean out your holiday decorations is key to maintaining a tidy home, reducing stress, and setting yourself up for a more enjoyable, streamlined holiday experience next year.
Why You Should Clean Out Holiday Decorations Annually
Reduce Clutter and Save Space
Storing decorations you no longer use or love clutters your closets and garages. An annual clean-out frees up space for more important things, including the new items you’re excited about.
Prevent Damage and Deterioration
When decorations sit untouched for years, they gather dust, warp, or become brittle. Cleaning them out ensures you’re only storing what remains in good condition.
Make Room for New Trends
Holiday styles change just like fashion. By letting go of outdated or worn pieces, you make room for on-trend items that better match your current style.
When Is the Best Time to Sort Through Decorations?
Post-Holiday Clean-Up
Right after the holidays is ideal because all your decorations are already out. You’ll also remember what you didn’t use, making it easier to decide what to discard.
Mid-Year Declutter
Spring cleaning or summer organization sessions are perfect if you miss the post-holiday clean-up. You’ll have fresh eyes and less emotional attachment to the items.
Pre-Holiday Prep
A few weeks before the decorating season begins is another opportunity. You’ll be excited about decorating and more realistic about what you truly need.
Essential Supplies You’ll Need for the Job
- Storage Bins and Boxes
- Labels and Markers
- Cleaning Agents and Gloves
A Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Out Your Holiday Decorations
Step 1 – Gather All Decorations in One Place
Collect everything—lights, ornaments, wreaths, wrapping paper, and centerpieces—from every storage area. This gives you a clear sense of how much you have.
Step 2 – Sort into Categories
Group by item type (e.g., lights, ornaments, table décor) or by holiday (Christmas, Halloween, Easter). This helps in identifying duplicates and making decisions.
Step 3 – Inspect for Damage
Check each item for cracks, missing pieces, frayed wires, or bad bulbs. If it can’t be repaired safely, it’s time to let it go.
Step 4 – Clean Before Storing
Wipe down every item. Dust and grime can deteriorate your décor, especially if stored for long periods.
Step 5 – Decide What to Keep, Donate, or Toss
Ask yourself: Did I use this last year? Does it bring me joy? Is it in good condition? Keep only what you love and will actually use.
Smart Decluttering Techniques
The 12-Month Rule
If it hasn’t been used in the past year and you have no intention to use it this year, it’s probably time to let it go. For more info about decluttering techniques, check out this article here.
Sentimental vs. Practical Decorations
Limit sentimental items to a small, manageable box. Keep practical decorations that align with your current tastes.
Pro tip: The sentimentality of many decorations causes people to hold onto the item “just in case.” But the hard truth is that if you’re not using it, it’s clutter. Be honest about what truly serves you.
Setting Limits by Storage Space
Use your available storage as a boundary. Only keep what fits comfortably and safely. There is no need to contribute to the $38 billion dollars Americans spend on self storage annually because you lack organization. By cleaning out your decorations you’re decluttering and saving money.
Tips For Organizing Your Decorations for Next Year
Labeling and Categorization
Clearly label by room or theme (e.g., “Living Room – Red Theme”). It simplifies unpacking next year.
Using Clear Storage Containers
These allow you to see contents at a glance and reduce the need to rummage through every box.
Keeping Fragile Items Safe
Wrap delicate items in tissue, bubble wrap, or leftover wrapping paper and store them in padded containers.
How to Store Decorations to Keep Them Fresh
Ideal Storage Conditions
- Cool, dry spaces are best. Avoid basements or attics prone to moisture or temperature extremes.
- Avoid heat, moisture, and light. Keep items out of direct sunlight and away from heaters or leaky pipes.
- Utilize a seasonal rotation system by storing frequently used décor in easy-to-access spots, and rare-use items higher or farther back.
- Pro tip: Store silica gel packs with your decorations to keep moisture at bay and extend their lifespan.
Tips for Handling Specific Types of Decorations
Lights and Electrical Items: Coil lights neatly using a cardboard spool or light reel. Check each strand before storing and label any faulty ones.
Ornaments and Fragile Décor: Place individual pieces in egg cartons or divided boxes. Add cushioning and avoid stacking heavy items on top. Make sure to label the exterior of the box with a note that tells you to not stack the box on the bottom.
Artificial Trees and Wreaths: Disassemble trees and store in their original box or a tree bag. Wreaths can be hung in storage closets to retain shape.
Maintaining a Year-Round Decoration Inventory
- Creating a Digital Catalog: Snap quick photos of your decorations and sort them into digital folders by season or holiday. Next time you’re tempted by a festive aisle at the store, you’ll know exactly what you already own—no need to rely on a 10-month-old memory.
- Using Inventory Apps: Prefer a tech-forward approach? Apps like Sortly or ToteScan make it easy to catalog what you have and where it’s stored, so your holiday bins stay organized and clutter stays out of your home.
Benefits of a Clutter-Free Holiday Experience
Easier Set-Up and Take-Down
Knowing where everything is saves hours of frustration each season and helps keep the magic alive.
More Enjoyable Celebrations
When you love what you display, the whole atmosphere feels more joyful and personal.
Less Stress and More Space
Free up mental and physical space by simplifying what you store. A cluttered household is linked to higher levels of cortisol (the stress hormone) in women. By keeping things organized you’re also benefiting your household’s mental health.
Eco-Friendly Disposal Tips for Unwanted Decorations
Donating to Charities
Many local charities and thrift stores accept gently used decorations, especially during holiday seasons. ReSupply will also come to your house and pick up the donations, before sending you the tax receipt afterwards. Less stress, more reward!
Recycling and Upcycling
Check your local recycling rules for string lights and plastics. Turn old ornaments into crafts or repurpose them for other holidays.
Community Swap Events
Host or attend decoration swaps with neighbors or community groups—it’s a great way to refresh your collection sustainably.
FAQs About How to Clean Out Your Holiday Decorations
- Should I declutter before or after the holidays? After the holidays is best since everything is out and fresh in your mind.
- How do I store fragile decorations safely? Use tissue or bubble wrap, and store in divided boxes labeled as “fragile.”
- What should I do with old lights? Recycle them at participating home improvement stores or special e-waste facilities.
- Is it okay to throw away broken ornaments? Yes, if they can’t be safely repaired or repurposed.
- How often should I clean out the holiday décor? Once a year is ideal, either post-holiday or pre-season.
- Can I donate handmade or personalized items? You can, but charities may be selective—check with local organizations first.
Your Holiday Décor, Reimagined and Ready
Decluttering your holiday décor is a simple act that can make a big impact—on your peace of mind, your home, and your community. Whether you’re downsizing or just getting organized, taking time now sets you up for a more joyful and sustainable holiday season next year.
Ready to donate your unused holiday items? Schedule a pickup with ReSupply and help your decorations find a new home where they can keep spreading cheer.
