5 Ways to Tidy Your Space for Easy Holiday Hosting
If there’s one time of year when we can expect to have more on our plates (and in our schedules), it’s the holiday season. But it doesn’t have to overwhelm us. We can make choices that not only honor our capacity but uplift our space.
Whether you are hosting or not, these tips and tools can make downtime at home more pleasant during the season. Take it section by section or delegate.
1. Keep up with the Kitchen
Clear Up Countertops
With cooking and baking on the agenda, create more prep space by removing any appliances or items that aren’t essential. This will make meal preparation smoother.
Sort Pantry and Fridge
Check your pantry for expired items and restock essentials for holiday recipes. Sort out your fridge to keep ingredients at your fingertips.
Keep food items in “zones”
An example of a “zone” could be an area dedicated just to baking items or a section in the refrigerator that is only for the appetizers. If necessary, grab some post-its for temporary labeling.
Want to make restocking the decanted items in your pantry easier? Check out these expiration labels.
2. Edit the Entryway
The entryway sets the tone for your home, but it can also be a drop zone where things easily get forgotten. Clear out extra shoes, bags, old mail that accumulate here to provide enough space for guest coats and bags.
3. Lighten up the Living Room
Other than the dining table, the living room is usually the heart of holiday gatherings. Start by removing any unnecessary items from coffee tables and side tables.
Imagine your guests seated in your space and create a comfortable environment by arranging furniture. This could mean removing excess pillows on the couch or adding in a bench from another room for additional seating.
4. Prepare the Guest Room
Guests will likely be carrying a little extra with gifts and such. Clear out a section of your guest or hall closet for them, or provide a luggage rack with storage to help them feel settled.
5. Pare Down the Playroom
This is a great time to incentivize your kids to clear and donate unused toys because they’ll want to make room for new gifts. ;) Encourage them to focus on their absolute favorites and remind them that letting go of some things makes space for them to play with cousins who may visit during the holidays.
If you do need a little extra storage, these neatly stored bins with labels can do the trick.
And a bonus:
If you’re in need of a compact way to add dining space, get strategic with pieces like this that can retract, roll, and store. You gotta love the functionality!
With a little bit of intention, preparing these spaces can make your holiday season more peaceful all-around. You’ll be primed to focus on what’s truly necessary without feeling like you’re overextended.
