Home Organization Ideas for December

Can you believe it is December already? It is not only hard to believe it is December already, it is also hard to believe that our year is about to end with another bright and shiny new one on the way! This time of year is often a bit hectic, but it does not have to be if you take some time to plan and reflect. It is also a great time to get a head start on organizing for the new year. While prepping and decorating for the holidays, take a few minutes to incorporate these organization ideas for the home.

Here is a list and my suggestions to get started:

Holiday decorations – As you are going through your decorations, it is really the perfect time to get rid of anything broken, unused, or unnecessary. All those extra ornaments, tinsel, gift bags etc. can be donated and leave you with less to manage. If they have sentimental value, keep them in a safe place where they will not be broken. If you have not put them out in the last few years, consider gifting the item to family members or donating them to make room for any new decor you may have. See my tips for organizing Christmas decorations.

 

Pantry items & baking supplies – While you’re doing all that holiday baking, be sure to take a look in your pantry and get rid of anything that’s expired, spilled or empty. Seriously, who puts away an empty box - I have seen it happen folks.  If you have an appliance that you do not use often but still need, think about storing it elsewhere to clear space in your kitchen. Take a few minutes to organize your spices while the cookies are baking.

Winter Clothing – Now is the perfect time to part with any winter items that have been outgrown or just not worn any longer. By decluttering  you will be making room in your closet for guest items and/or future purchases. This goes for coats, sweaters, snow wear and boots. Taking 10-20 extra minutes to do this will open up space in your home and keep your closets organized.

Linens - Tablecloths, placemats and holiday runners can make your table sing, but if you have stacks of these in your cupboard and most do not see the light of day, it might be time to move them out. If you are like me, I have changed my decor style over the years and have decided to donate some of my tablecloths that do not match my new color scheme.

Toys and Electronics – It is a great time of year to donate toys, books and electronic media that your kids have outgrown. Books and toys are also great to pass on to friends or relatives that might enjoy them. Plus it is nice to make some room for all those new items that may make their way into your home in the future. Don’t forget those CDs and movies too?! We do not even own a VHS machine anymore so those tapes are gone. We keep only a few of our favorite DVDs.

 

It does not take much extra time to declutter these things and it will take some of the stress out of the holiday season because it feels good to declutter.

Have you done any decluttering or organizing this month?

I hope you enjoyed these simple home organization ideas. If you liked it, please consider sharing or sign up for our weekly newsletter.