The Seasonal Declutter: 10 Things to Let Go Before the Holidays

The holidays bring joy, gatherings, and plenty of memories but they can also bring a little extra stuff. 🎁 Before the season gets busy, take a moment to refresh your home with a simple declutter session. Think of it as making space for the new while letting go of what no longer serves you.

Here are 10 things to declutter now so your home feels calm, welcoming, and holiday-ready.

🕯️ 1. Expired Candles & Half-Burned Jars

If the wick won’t light or the scent is gone, it’s time to let it go. Keep a few favorites for cozy nights, but clear out the rest.

☕ 2. Mugs You Don’t Use

We all have a cupboard full of random mugs. Keep the ones that spark joy and donate the rest — especially before holiday drink season begins.

🧥 3. Coats & Outerwear

Check closets for coats, scarves, and boots that no longer fit or aren’t worn. Donate them before the cold sets in — someone else could use them this winter.

🍽️ 4. Worn-Out Kitchen Towels

Frayed and stained towels can go. Refresh your kitchen with a new set for holiday cooking and entertaining.

🎄 5. Old Holiday Décor

Broken ornaments, tangled lights, or décor you haven’t used in years? It’s time to part ways. This makes decorating simpler and more joyful.

🛋️ 6. Throw Blankets & Pillows

Keep the coziest, let go of the rest. Too many extras just take up storage space.

📚 7. Books & Magazines

If they’ve been sitting unread for months, consider donating them. Free up space for holiday reads or coffee table styling.

🍴 8. Extra Kitchen Gadgets

That gadget you bought but never use? Out it goes. Keep the tools you love for baking, roasting, and festive meals.

🧺 9. Linens You Don’t Love

Old sheets, mismatched pillowcases, or table linens past their prime can be donated or recycled. Make room for the ones you’ll enjoy hosting with.

🎁 10. Random Clutter & “Just in Case” Items

That drawer of “someday” items? The random decor that doesn’t match your style anymore? It’s time to release them before holiday gifts arrive.

Decluttering doesn’t have to be overwhelming think of it as gifting yourself a fresh start before the holidays. By letting go of what you don’t need, you’re creating space for what matters most: cozy moments, family gatherings, and joyful new memories.

So light a candle, grab a donation box, and let your home breathe easy this season. 🍂🎄

With Love and Light,

Annabelle Lee