20 Easy Ways to Organize Your Home After the Holidays
The holidays are magical—a time for celebration, laughter, and making memories. But as much as I love the holiday cheer, by the time January rolls around, my house looks like a holiday hurricane hit it.
This year, it feels even more important to stay ahead of the post-holiday mess while juggling a newborn and a toddler. Let me tell you, it’s chaos—but the funny kind of chaos.
Like when the kids get more excited about playing with wrapping paper than the actual gifts! Sound familiar?
If you’re in the same boat, don’t worry—post-holiday organization doesn’t have to feel impossible. I’ve learned that with a few simple strategies (and maybe a little coffee), you can turn the chaos into a clean, calming space that’s ready for the New Year.
Trust me, nothing feels better than reclaiming your home while finding small moments of peace amidst the mayhem.
In this guide, I’ll share 20 practical tips I’ve used to get organized, even with little ones running around. From tackling decorations to streamlining toy storage, these ideas will help you reset your home and your mind.
And if you’re looking for even more ways to refresh your space, check out my 10 Genius Decluttering Hacks . Let’s get started!
1. Start with a Clean Slate
Before you dive into organizing, take 15–20 minutes to tidy up. Toss out scraps of wrapping paper, recycle empty boxes, and clear away any lingering holiday items. Starting with a clutter-free space not only makes the task less overwhelming but also sets a positive tone for the rest of your organizing. Trust me, this little step makes a world of difference!
2. Create a “Holiday Command Center
Designate one spot in your home for all your holiday-related items—think gift wrap, ribbons, and decorations. Clear storage bins, like these stackable ones, make it easy to group similar items and keep everything neat. Bonus tip: if you store it in a closet or under the bed, you’ll know exactly where to find it next year without any frantic searching.
3. Store Decorations by Category
Organize your ornaments, lights, and wreaths by grouping them into categories. It’s a small change, but it makes a huge difference when next year rolls around. Dividers or specialty boxes, like these ornament organizers, help prevent damage and make decorating stress-free.
4. Repurpose Leftover Gift Bags and Boxes
Don’t let those festive gift bags and boxes go to waste! Fold them neatly and store them in a large tote or reusable bag. Better yet, a hanging organizer like this one keeps everything tidy and accessible. You’ll thank yourself the next time you need a last-minute gift wrap solution.
5. Create a Toy Rotation System
If your kids were spoiled with new toys (and let’s be real, whose weren’t?), try a toy rotation system to keep things fresh and manageable. Store a portion of the toys in bins and rotate them out periodically to avoid overwhelm. These stackable toy bins are perfect for keeping everything tidy and easy to access. Trust me, this is a game-changer for playrooms.
6. Declutter Holiday-Specific Items
If certain decorations, tableware, or outfits didn’t make it out of storage this year, it’s a good time to part ways with them. Donate items that no longer spark joy to make space for the things you truly love. For more tips on decluttering, check out my Decluttering Hacks article for ideas that make letting go easier.
MORE ARTICLES YOU WILL LOVE!
10 Genius Decluttering Hacks to Start the New Year Right
25 Gorgeous Winter Centerpieces to Make Your Table look Expensive
No Pantry? No Problem! Clever No Pantry Storage Organization Ideas for Your Kitchen
7. Maximize Vertical Space
Make use of vertical storage to free up precious floor space. Over-the-door organizers, wall-mounted hooks, and tiered shelves are lifesavers for smaller homes. These over-the-door pocket organizers are especially handy for stashing scarves, craft supplies, or even small holiday decorations.
8. Label Everything
Take it from me: labeling bins and baskets is a time-saver you didn’t know you needed. Whether you’re organizing your pantry, craft supplies, or holiday decor, a little label goes a long way. Reusable chalkboard labels like these add a functional yet stylish touch.
9. Tackle One Room at a Time
Avoid the temptation to organize your entire house in one day. Instead, focus on one room or area at a time. Start with spaces that feel the most chaotic—like the living room or kitchen—and work your way through the rest. It’s amazing how manageable it feels when you break it down.
10. Store Seasonal Clothing Properly
Holiday sweaters, winter boots, and scarves can take up so much space if not stored correctly. Use vacuum-sealed bags like these to pack them away neatly and keep them protected until next season. Plus, you’ll free up extra closet space for the rest of the year.
11. Create a Gift Wrap Station
Dedicate a small area to store wrapping paper, ribbons, and gift tags. A wrapping paper organizer like this one keeps everything neatly rolled and ready for birthdays or the next holiday season. Bonus: no more crumpled gift wrap!
12. Simplify Your Kitchen Counters
After all the holiday cooking, it’s easy for counters to get cluttered with gadgets and dishes. Pare down to just the essentials and organize the rest with space-saving tools. Stackable food containers are a lifesaver for keeping things neat and your counters clear.
13. Sort Leftover Holiday Card
If you’re drowning in holiday cards, now’s the perfect time to sort through them. Display your favorites for a few weeks, then recycle the rest or repurpose them for crafts. You can even turn them into DIY gift tags for next year—eco-friendly and creative!
14. Set Up a Donation Box
Place a donation box in a visible spot to make decluttering a regular habit. Encourage everyone in your household to contribute items they no longer need. Once the box is full, drop it off at a local charity or thrift store—it’s a small effort that makes a big difference.
15. Organize Your Pantry
Post-holiday snacks and leftover baking supplies can quickly become chaotic. Use clear containers or labeled bins to organize your pantry and keep everything fresh. Plus, a tidy pantry makes meal prep so much easier.
16. Create a Digital Photo Album
Is your phone bursting with holiday photos? Take some time to sort, save, and organize them into a digital album. Use cloud storage for safekeeping, or turn your favorites into a printed photo book to treasure those holiday memories.
17. Make Use of Under-Bed Storage
Bulky items like blankets, seasonal decor, or winter clothing can take up valuable space. Slim under-bed storage bins are perfect for keeping these items neatly out of sight but still within easy reach.
18. Organize Your Entryway
Post-holiday entryways can become a dumping ground for shoes, coats, and bags. Bring some order to the chaos with a shoe rack or wall-mounted hooks. A tidy entryway sets the tone for the rest of your home.
19. Invest in Multi-Purpose Furniture
Furniture with built-in storage is a win-win for organization and style. Look for ottomans, benches, or coffee tables with compartments to keep your living room clutter-free. It’s perfect for stashing blankets, remotes, or kids’ toys in a pinch.
20. Plan Your Next Reset
The best way to maintain an organized home is to make it a habit. Schedule a monthly reset to tidy up high-traffic areas and assess what’s working and what’s not. Trust me, a quick check-in can save you hours of stress later!
Don’t Forget Your Free Resources
Ready to tackle your home? Download my Cleaning Checklist for step-by-step guidance on keeping your space tidy year-round.
Final Thoughts
And there you have it—20 easy and practical ways to reclaim your home after the holidays! Whether you’re sorting decorations, organizing your pantry, or finally finding a spot for all those new toys, each step brings you closer to a clutter-free, refreshed space.
Remember, it’s not about achieving perfection; it’s about creating a home that feels peaceful and functional for you and your family. With a little patience and these simple strategies, you’ll be ready to start the New Year feeling more organized and in control.
What tip are you most excited to try first? I’d love to hear about your post-holiday organization wins—or even your challenges! Leave a comment below and let’s keep the conversation going. And if you found this guide helpful, feel free to share it with a friend who could use some inspiration.
Here’s to a clean, organized home and a fresh start to the year ahead!
