Published: December 01, 2024

How to Prepare Your Home for the Holidays

With the holiday season quickly approaching, it’s time to get your home ready for the celebrations. Whether you’re hosting family gatherings or simply want your house to feel festive, a little preparation can go a long way in making the season stress-free. Here are some effective tips to help you prepare your house for the holidays.

1. Declutter Your Living Spaces

Before you start decorating, it’s important to declutter. Clearing out unnecessary items from high-traffic areas like the living room, kitchen, and entryway can instantly make your home feel more spacious and welcoming. Tidy up countertops, organize shelves, and put away things that don’t serve a purpose during the holidays. Donate or recycle items you no longer need. It’s the perfect time of year to give back to others.

2. Deep Clean Key Areas

Once you’ve decluttered, give your home a thorough cleaning. Focus on high-use areas like the living room, bathrooms, and kitchen—places where guests will spend the most time. Pay attention to details that often get overlooked, such as dusting light fixtures, wiping down baseboards, and cleaning windows. A clean home will feel more inviting during the holidays and help you relax when guests arrive.

3. Create a Welcoming Space for Guests

If you’re expecting overnight visitors, make sure your guest room is prepared. Wash the bedding, set out clean towels, and maybe add a small basket of essentials like toiletries or snacks. Simple touches like a bedside lamp or a charging station for phones can make a big difference in making your guests feel at home. If you don’t have a guest room, consider where you might need extra seating or rearrange furniture.

4. Simplify Your Holiday Decorations

When it comes to holiday décor, less is often more. Start by choosing a color scheme that complements your home’s interior. Stick to a few key decorations rather than overloading every space with seasonal items. Adding subtle touches like wreaths, candles, or festive throw pillows can help create a warm holiday ambiance without cluttering your home. Don’t forget the front entrance—it’s the first impression your guests will have! A simple wreath or garland on the door can make your home feel festive right from the start.

5. Organize Your Kitchen for Holiday Meals

Holiday gatherings often center around food, so take some time to get your kitchen in order. Clear out old items from the pantry to make space for the holiday groceries. Double-check that your cookware and appliances are in good working condition, and stock up on the essentials so you’re not scrambling last-minute. If you plan on preparing a big meal, consider what dishes you can prepare in advance. This will help you avoid a rush on the day of the celebration and let you enjoy time with your guests instead of being stuck in the kitchen.

6. Enhance Comfort With Small Details

The holidays are all about making your home feel cozy and comfortable. To enhance the ambiance, add extra throw blankets to the living room, set out candles, and maybe create a small hot drink station. These little touches will go a long way in making your home feel warm and inviting. You can also introduce festive scents with candles or diffusers that evoke the holiday spirit—think cinnamon, pine, or vanilla.

7. Plan for the Unexpected During the Holidays

Finally, always be prepared for those unexpected moments. Stock up on extra supplies like toilet paper, napkins, and paper towels. Have a few spare gifts on hand, such as candles, gourmet chocolates, or festive treats, in case you receive any surprise visitors or invitations.

Preparing your home for the holidays doesn’t need to be a stressful process. By following these simple tips, you can create a warm, welcoming space for your guests and enjoy a more relaxing holiday season. Start by decluttering, give your home a good clean, and add festive but simple decorations. With a little preparation, your home will be holiday-ready in no time!

For help with storage during the holidays, visit UNITS® Moving and Portable Storage of Wilmington or give us a call at (910) 469-0242.