The first week after the holidays is the perfect time to set the tone for the upcoming year. While it’s tempting to hastily toss holiday decorations into storage, we’ve found that a little extra care now can save you a lot of time and effort next season. See how to start the new year off right with our best post-holiday organization tips.
Here’s our top tip: Take photos of your decorations before you pack them away. These snapshots serve as a guide for next year and ensure you remember what worked well. Pack decorations in room-specific storage boxes labeled by space (kitchen, living room, guest bathroom etc.) and include notes or suggestions for improvement.
To take it up a notch, create planning sheets for each room. Use card stock for durability, slide them into page protectors, and attach them to the underside of the box for easy reference. Don’t forget to remove sticky residue from command hooks and store the cleaned hooks in a small baggie inside the box. For bows, stuff them with recycled tissue paper to maintain their shape.
Organizing this way makes next year’s decorating a breeze. It’s also a system that allows you to delegate setup with ease, as everything is well-documented.
While you’re tidying up, embrace the opportunity to set new goals, plan potential travel, and enjoy some winter activities—whether that’s ice skating, skiing, or a peaceful winter walk. Pair these moments with simple, healthy meals like light winter salads to recharge after the holiday indulgence.
For a thoughtful touch, send kids back to school with little surprises like a note in their lunchbox, a dorm delivery of cookies, or a restaurant gift card tucked into a sweet card. These small acts of kindness help everyone start the new year with a smile.
Follow our post-holiday organization tips to start the New Year off right. With a little extra effort, organization, and a touch of creativity, you can embrace the beauty of a fresh start, and be ready for a wonderful New Year.
