Organizing Your Holiday Decorations

The holiday season is a time of joy and celebration, but it can also mean an overwhelming amount of decorations that need to be stored and organized. Here are some practical tips to help you keep your holiday decorations neat and easily accessible for years to come. Start by using my SHOO system to get things going!

1. Gather All Decorations

Before you can organize your decorations, you need to know what you have. Gather all your holiday decorations from various rooms in your home. This includes ornaments, lights, wreaths and any other festive items.

2. Sort and Declutter

Once everything is gathered, sort your decorations into categories. Consider the following groups:

• Tree ornaments
• Lights and garlands
• Table decorations
• Wreaths
• Outdoor decorations

As you sort, take the time to declutter. Decide which items you truly love and use, and consider donating or discarding any that are broken or no longer spark joy.

3. Clean After Storing

Before sorting and putting your decorations away, give them a good cleaning. Dust off ornaments and wipe down surfaces. This small step ensures that your decorations remain in good condition for the next season and helps prevent any damage during storage.

4. Choose Appropriate Storage Containers

Invest in sturdy storage bins that fit your decorations. Clear plastic containers allow you to easily see what’s inside, while labelled boxes can help you find specific items quickly. Consider using:

• Separate bins for different categories (e.g., ornaments, lights).
• Dividers or egg cartons for delicate ornaments to prevent them from breaking.
• Seal any lights in bags to prevent tangling.

5. Create an Inventory List

Keep a list of what decorations you have and in which bins they’re stored. This inventory can be digital or on paper, and it will save you time when planning for the next holiday season. Set aside any missing or broken items, so you can replace them next season, if you wish.

6. Store Wisely

When storing your decorations, consider the following tips:

• Label each bin clearly so you know what’s inside.
• Store decorations in a climate-controlled area to prevent damage from moisture or extreme temperatures.
• Keep frequently used items accessible while placing less-used items toward the back or on higher shelves.

7. Plan for the Next Season

As your holiday season concludes, take a moment to plan for the upcoming year. After reorganizing, it might be a good idea to consider any new decorations you want to buy and how they’ll fit into your existing collection. This can help you maintain a clutter-free approach.

Organizing holiday decorations takes a little time and effort but results in a more enjoyable holiday experience. With these strategies, you can ensure that your decorations are stored safely and are easy to access, making your next holiday celebration a breeze! Happy organizing!