3 Keys to a Jolly Post-Christmas Cleanup
Pack with Unpacking in Mind
I have to admit that once the holiday season is over, I do like to revel in all my decor a little bit past when others may consider it appropriate -- I can’t help it! BUT! When I am ready to pack it up and put it away, I can’t get it all taken down fast enough! My first inclination is to get my storage totes and just throw everything in, because faster is better, right? Not quite… When I remember that I will be the one unpacking all of the decor next season, I am much more inclined to slow things down and put things away properly. When I open things up after Thanksgiving, I want to thank my past self for making it a joyful moment instead of one that brings on the holiday grumpies.
Avoid Square Peg -> Round Hole
If you want to keep things organized, you have to do your best to avoid trying to fit a square peg into a round hole. Have you ever tried to stuff your holiday wreath into a 16-gallon storage tote? Spoiler alert -- it’s not going to fit! To help my favorite decorations keep their shape and to prevent any damage, I like to use wreath boxes, ornament totes, and underbed storage boxes (I don’t actually put them under the bed, but they are the perfect size and shape for garland and/or long-stemmed picks and sticks for the tree!).
When in Doubt, Throw It Out
That string of lights that’s burned out? The garland that’s seen better days? The stems that have dropped more glitter on the floor than they actually kept on their branches??? My instinct is to keep them, because, “Surely I can find a use for this next year.” Don’t torture yourself! If you don’t think you’re going to use it next year because it’s worn out, damaged, or not your style anymore, get rid of it!
BONUS TIP: Recycle That Gift Wrap!
Did you know that most gift wrap is totally recyclable? As long as it does not feature a finish like glitter, metallics, or velvet, you can help the environment by recycling your gift wrap! Instead of throwing away all that used gift wrap from Christmas morning, just move it to the recycle bin. If you’re like me, and you like to buy new gift wrap every year, don’t store the old stuff! Move that to the recycle bin too.
