Welcoming extended family and friends into your home is an exciting part of the festive season – and one you can enjoy even if your house or apartment is on the small side.
Being the perfect host takes a lot of planning. But, if space is at a premium, you’ll be amazed at how much extra room you can find if you declutter first.
I’ve seen it work a million times as folks prepare their homes for sale. And, let’s face it, this scenario isn’t so different. With the holidays, there’s just the added festive spice of turkey-basting, present-wrapping, decoration hanging and, of course, Santa and his sleigh stopping by!
So, below, I’ve made a short list of items you can declutter around your home to help your Holidays run more smoothly.
Out with the old
Let’s open up that box of old festive decorations and throw out the broken baubles and tinsel that have seen one too many years.
The real thing
That large fake tree? Let it go! Buy a smaller one if space is tight, and make it a natural spruce or fir, which you won’t have to store when the festivities are over.
Dust collectors
Sell, give away or donate to charity old bikes, gym equipment and other large items that have been collecting dust all year. The same fate should await discarded toys and unwanted books and games. The kids can get a kick out of donating once-loved toys to charity (and making space for Santa’s goodies).
Seeing double
Get into those drawers and cupboards and purge all those cooking utensils you have in duplicate! Include on your hit list old baking dishes, oven wear, chipped china and blunt knives you’ve never bothered to sharpen.
Closet clear-out
Enrol the whole family in pulling out old clothes they dislike, no longer wear or don’t fit anymore. Consider if any are suitable for family and friends. Otherwise, donate to charity or throw them away.
Storage space
The additional storage space you’ll create will help you clear the decks in your living areas and kitchen, making them perfect for family and friends arriving for your holiday celebration.