9 Holiday Organizing Projects to Check Off Your List Before Guests Arrive

Clear Coats and Winter Gear

Make room in the coat closet before guests arrive with winter outerwear. C.Lee Cawley, owner of Simplify You, recommends removing everything, donating items no longer worn and adding hangers for visitors.

Linda Thibodeau, co-owner of Curated Spaces, advises checking children’s coats, boots and mittens for items they have outgrown. Adults can also donate unused gear to donation centers or local coat drives.

Check Dishes and Wrapping Supplies

Inspect mugs and plates for chips or cracks, and locate serving pieces ahead of holiday meals. Cawley also recommends washing items that have sat unused and confirming there is enough dishware, glassware and cutlery for the largest gathering.

Sort gift wrap, ribbons and bags, keeping usable items and discarding damaged or crumpled supplies. Thibodeau suggests storing them in under-bed bins or gift-wrap containers, then noting what needs replacing.

Make Room for Holiday Food

Clear space in the pantry and refrigerator for holiday shopping and leftovers. Thibodeau recommends taking out spices, canned goods and other stored food, checking expiration dates and discarding expired items. Unopened, unexpired food that has gone unused may be donated to a local food pantry, Thibodeau says.

Prepare Linens and Guest Spaces

Check that guest sheets are in matching sets and that towels are in good condition. Thibodeau says dog shelters can accept old sheets and towels if they do not contain filling.

Clear guest-room surfaces and make room in the closet and drawers so visitors can unpack. Cawley suggests adding matching hangers and a luggage rack, and removing excess decor. Clear bathroom counters and restock the cabinet with items guests may need, including a spare toothbrush, pain reliever, toiletries and feminine products, Cawley advises.