Can you believe the holidays are already almost behind us? If you’re anything like me, it feels like Christmas came and went in the blink of an eye, and now it’s time to tackle the not-so-fun part: cleaning up and packing away all the decorations.
Whether you’re the type to pack it all up the day after Christmas or you like to savor the twinkling lights well into January, having a game plan for storage and cleanup can make all the difference. Today, we’re sharing the ultimate hacks for post-Christmas cleaning, smart storage solutions, and how to transition your home into a cozy winter wonderland.
When to Take Down Christmas Decorations
There’s no right or wrong answer here—it all depends on your vibe!
- Day-After Declutterers: You’re ready to reclaim your space ASAP.
- New Year’s Transitioners: You keep the magic alive for a few more days before diving into a fresh start.
- Winter Enthusiasts: You leave some decorations up all season for those warm, cozy vibes.
In our house, we take it step by step:
- Red and sparkly Christmas decor comes down the day after Christmas.
- New Year’s marks the end of most Christmas decorations.
- Greenery and subtle winter decor stay up through February for a cozy seasonal touch.
Storage Hacks to Keep You Sane
1. Clear Bins Are a Must
If you’re still using solid-colored totes, it’s time to upgrade. Clear bins let you see exactly what’s inside without having to dig through piles of boxes. Bonus points if you label them by room or category (e.g., “mantle decor,” “tree ornaments,” or “outdoor lights”).
2. Use Hangers for Smart Storage
Hangers aren’t just for clothes—they’re perfect for keeping holiday items organized.
- String Lights: Wrap them around a hanger to avoid the dreaded tangled mess.
- Ribbons and Wreaths: Hang these to keep them neat and damage-free.
- Wrapping Paper: Store rolls vertically in a garment bag to protect them from tears.
3. Repurpose Everyday Items
- Beer Cartons: Use the dividers for storing fragile ornaments.
- Egg Cartons: Perfect for smaller decorations or keepsakes.
- Plastic Cups: Place ornaments inside cups and arrange them in bins for extra protection.
Don’t make this mistake for next year …
Decluttering and Transitioning Your Decor
Step 1: Remove the Red
The day after Christmas, we take down all the red accents—ornaments, bows, and garlands. Removing the bold Christmas colors immediately helps transition the space into a more neutral, wintery vibe.
Step 2: Keep the Greenery
Greenery is your best friend for cozy winter decor. We leave the real greenery up as long as it lasts, often swapping sparkly ornaments for dried flowers or neutral accents. Real garlands and wreaths dry beautifully, adding texture and charm that feels timeless through the colder months.
Step 3: Pack Away the Rest
After New Year’s, we pack up the tree, fake greenery, and any remaining holiday-specific items. The house feels refreshed but still warm and inviting, thanks to the greenery and soft lighting we leave up.
Cozy Winter Transition Tips
Even after the holiday decor is packed up, you can keep your home feeling cozy and festive for the season:
- Layer Textures: Add chunky knit blankets, faux fur throws, and warm-toned pillows.
- Keep the Twinkle: String lights aren’t just for Christmas! Use them in bedrooms or along shelves for a soft, inviting glow.
- Swap Sparkly for Natural: Replace shiny ornaments with wood accents, dried eucalyptus, or pinecones.
Pro Tips for Next Year’s Decorating
- Sort by Room: Store items based on where they’ll be used to make decorating easier next year.
- Create a Holiday Toolbox: Keep all your hooks, ornament hangers, and light clips in one labeled bin.
- Purge as You Pack: If you didn’t use it this year, consider donating or tossing it.
Wrapping It Up
Cleaning after Christmas doesn’t have to be a chore. With these storage hacks and transition tips, you can pack up your holiday decor while keeping your home cozy and ready for winter. Have a storage tip or winter decor idea we didn’t cover? Drop it in the comments—we’d love to hear your genius hacks!
