Alyssa Gautieri’s Holiday Decluttering Plan: 9 Things to Clear Before the Season

Make room before the holidays

Living in a one-bedroom apartment has made Gautieri wary of keeping things just in case. She says those belongings can build into stressful piles, and the approaching holidays mean she needs space for decorations, seasonal clothing, hosting and gifts.

Instead of packing more into full closets and drawers, she is checking what she actually needs. Some items will be thrown away, while gently used clothing, kitchenware and home goods may go to friends, family or local organizations.

Edit clothes and decorations

Gautieri follows a one-in, one-out rule for new sweaters and boots. She plans to part with winter clothes that no longer suit her style and boots she rarely wears because they are uncomfortable, out of style or scuffed; items in good condition can be donated.

After finding holiday decorations she had forgotten about, she decided to donate anything she will not display. She suggests taking decor to thrift stores such as Goodwill or a local community center soon enough for someone else to use it this season.

Trim everyday household extras

Gautieri cut her reusable grocery and tote bags down to 10 that she uses. She threw out older ones and plans to donate the rest, noting that food banks and pantries may accept new and gently used bags.

Clear candles, cords and more

Gautieri gave herself until the end of the month to use up old candles before throwing them out. She saves attractive jars for reuse as vases or catchall dishes, removing remaining wax by placing a jar in very hot water and scooping out the melted wax.

She plans to discard random wires, including old phone chargers that do not work with her new phone, and test her pens, throwing away ones that no longer work or leak ink. She is also sorting through spare throw blankets to make room for holiday gifts; new or gently used blankets can go to local charities or animal shelters.