Make Space for Joy: Your Pre-Holiday Decluttering Guide
- SunnySpacesOrganizing
- 7 days ago
- 2 min read
The holidays bring joy, celebration, and—let’s be honest—a lot of stuff. From new toys and clothes to gifts from loved ones, it doesn’t take long before our homes start to feel a little crowded. That’s why now is the perfect time for a pre-holiday purge—a quick, intentional decluttering session to make space for what truly matters this season.
1. Start with the Kids’ Toys
Before the influx of holiday gifts, take a moment to sort through your kids’ play areas.
Do a toy audit: Pull everything out and group by type—puzzles, dolls, cars, building sets, etc.
Ask what still gets played with: Involve your kids by asking what they still love. You might be surprised how willing they are to donate toys they’ve outgrown.
Set donation goals: Encourage generosity by reminding them that other kids will enjoy what they’ve outgrown.
2. Edit the Closets
As you swap out wardrobes for cooler weather, it’s a great time to declutter clothing for both kids and adults.
Outgrown & unworn: Anything that doesn’t fit or hasn’t been worn in a year can likely go.
Holiday-ready check: Make sure everyone has what they need for special events—cozy sweaters, dress shoes, and warm outerwear.
Donate before shopping: Clearing out makes it easier to see what truly needs replacing—and prevents overbuying.
👕 Bonus tip: Keep a bag in each closet labeled “donate.” When it’s full, drop it off and start fresh.
3. Tackle the Sentimental Stuff
Before the season of making new memories begins, take time to revisit old ones.
Focus small: Choose one category—old cards, kids’ artwork, or photos—and sort through a bit at a time.
Keep the best: Save what tells a story or sparks joy.
Digitize or display: Scan artwork or create a small keepsake box so memories take up less space but still feel honored.
💛 Mindset shift: Letting go of physical items doesn’t mean losing the memories tied to them.
4. Streamline the Storage Spaces
Decluttering is only half the battle—creating organized zones ensures you stay ahead of holiday chaos.
Pantry & fridge: Make room for baking supplies and holiday meal prep.
Guest spaces: Clear out guest rooms or linen closets so they’re ready for visitors.
Gift wrap station: Gather wrapping supplies, tape, and tags in one spot now to avoid the last-minute scramble.
🎁 Sunny tip: Use clear bins and labels so you can quickly find what you need during busy weeks ahead.
5. Make Space for What Matters
A pre-holiday purge isn’t just about decluttering your home—it’s about making space for joy, connection, and calm. When your home feels lighter and more organized, you’ll have more time and energy to enjoy what the holidays are really about.
✨ Make space for what matters this holiday season—time for a pre-gift purge!