Seasonal Sparkle: Decluttering & Organizing While You Decorate
- Hopeful Simplicity
- Jul 30
- 2 min read
The holiday season brings a special kind of magic—twinkling lights, cozy décor, family traditions. But if you’re like many moms, it can also bring extra stress, clutter, and chaos. The good news? You can make space for joy by decluttering as you decorate.
This isn’t about doing it all or having a Pinterest-perfect house—it’s about creating a space that feels calm, functional, and festive. Let’s walk through how to keep the season light, even while the décor comes out.
1. Clear Before You Cheer
Before you open a single storage bin of seasonal décor, take 15 minutes to walk your space. Is there clutter that can be tossed, donated, or stored away before the extras come in?
• Clear surfaces like mantels, tables, and counters • Put away fall or everyday décor first • Do a quick trash round: expired candles, broken ornaments, worn-out décor
Creating open space now prevents the holiday overload later.
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2. Decorate with Purpose, Not Pressure
If your holiday bins are overflowing, this is the year to be intentional. Ask yourself:
• Do I love this?
• Do I use it every year?
• Does it still work/look good?
Keep only what makes your space feel joyful, not crowded. Set limits on how much you unpack, and store the rest (or donate what no longer fits your style or space).
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3. Set Up a Seasonal Station
Designate one spot—a basket, bin, or tray—as your holiday command center. This is where you keep:
• Gift tags, tape, scissors
• Greeting cards and stamps
• Candles or seasonal scents
• Extra batteries or light replacements
It keeps you from digging through drawers or spreading supplies across the house.
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4. Rotate, Don’t Layer
Avoid the temptation to pile décor on top of what’s already out. Rotate what you display:
• Swap out throw pillows or blankets
• Trade framed art or signs with seasonal ones • Box up everyday items to make space for holiday pieces
This keeps your space feeling festive—not full.
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5. Keep Clutter from Creeping Back
During the holidays, clutter sneaks in fast—mail, gifts, shopping bags, leftovers. Create drop zones now:
• A tray for incoming mail
• A basket for gift receipts
• A “return bin” for things headed back to the store
A little bit of planning keeps the sparkle from turning into stress.
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You Deserve a Season That Feels Good
Decluttering and decorating don’t have to fight each other. When you make space before adding more, your home can feel open, inviting, and peaceful. This season, choose simple over stressful—and let your home reflect the joy you want to feel.
Traveling this Holiday season? We've got a Holiday Travel Checklist to help you stay organized on the go!
