Published: November 01, 2023

Preparing Your Home for the Holidays

The holiday season is fast approaching, and it’s the perfect time to start getting your home ready for the festivities. Whether you’re hosting family gatherings, planning festive parties, or simply want to create a warm and inviting atmosphere for your loved ones, a little preparation can go a long way. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get your house holiday-ready.

1. Declutter and Organize

Before you start decorating, it’s essential to declutter and organize your home. Go room by room, sorting through your belongings and getting rid of items you no longer need. Donate, recycle, or toss what you can. This will give you space and a clean canvas for holiday decorations.

2. Deep Clean

Once you’ve decluttered, give your home a thorough cleaning. Dust all surfaces, vacuum carpets and rugs, mop floors, and clean windows. Don’t forget to clean your kitchen appliances and scrub your bathrooms well. A clean home is the perfect foundation for holiday festivities.

3. Create a Cozy Ambiance

Set the mood with cozy and inviting lighting. Consider adding some warm-toned LED string lights, scented candles, or even a fireplace if you have one. These elements will create a warm and inviting atmosphere that’s perfect for the holidays.

4. Decorate

Now comes the fun part! Start decorating your home with festive decorations. You can begin with the entryway to make a great first impression. Hang a wreath on your front door, add some twinkling lights, and place a holiday-themed doormat. Decorate your living room, dining area, and any other spaces in your home where guests are going to gather. 

5. Set up a Holiday Playlist

Music is a powerful mood-setter. Create a holiday playlist featuring your favorite festive tunes. You can play it softly in the background during gatherings or while you’re decorating. Music can instantly make your home feel more cheerful and in the holiday spirit.

6. Plan Your Menu

Plan your menu in advance if you’re hosting holiday dinners or parties. Decide on the dishes you want to prepare and make a shopping list. Consider all dietary preferences and allergies. You can prepare some items ahead of time and freeze them to reduce holiday cooking stress.

7. Stock up on Supplies

Make sure you have all the necessary supplies for your holiday festivities. This includes extra seating, serving platters, utensils, and tableware. Don’t forget essentials like extra toilet paper, hand soap, and trash bags for your guests’ comfort and convenience.

8. Create a Guest-Friendly Space

If you’re hosting overnight guests, prepare a comfortable and welcoming space for them. Ensure their sleeping arrangements are cozy, provide fresh linens, and stock the guest bathroom with toiletries. A little extra effort goes a long way in making your guests feel at home.

9. Safety First

Safety is a top priority during the holidays. Check your smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, and carbon monoxide detectors to ensure they’re in working order. If you have a live Christmas tree, keep it well-watered to prevent it from drying out and becoming a fire hazard.

10. Relax and Enjoy

The holidays are about spending time with loved ones and creating cherished memories. Don’t get too caught up in the details. Allow yourself to relax and enjoy the festivities. Take time to appreciate the beauty of your decorated home and the joy it brings to those who visit.

By following these steps, you’ll be well-prepared to welcome the holiday season with open arms. Whether you’re hosting gatherings or simply reveling in the holiday spirit, a well-prepared and festive home will make the season even more special. 

For more information or help with extra storage, visit UNITS® Moving and Portable Storage of Houston or call (832) 924-7578. Happy holidays!