Clear the Decks Before the Holly: 5 Tips to Declutter Your Home in November

Hey there valuable mamas!

November is that sneaky month that whispers, “Relax, Christmas is still far away,” while secretly plotting to ambush you with twinkle lights, gift wrap chaos, and a sudden urge to bake 47 kinds of cookies. Before you dive headfirst into garlands and gingerbread, let’s talk about the unsung hero of holiday prep: decluttering.

Because nothing kills Christmas cheer faster than trying to hang stockings in a living room that looks like a storage unit. So grab a cozy sweater, make yourself a cup of coffee and let’s tackle this together. Here are five smart, sanity-saving tips to declutter your home before the festive storm hits:

1. The “Santa Audit” – One Room at a Time

Forget the overwhelming “whole house purge.” Instead, channel your inner Santa and make a list (and check it twice) for each room. Start with the spaces guests will actually see—living room, kitchen, entryway. Ask yourself:Would I want this in a Christmas photo? If the answer is “no,” it’s time to say goodbye. This method keeps you focused and prevents the dreaded “I’ve been decluttering for six hours and my house looks worse” syndrome.

2. The 15-Minute Dash

Decluttering doesn’t have to feel like a Netflix series marathon. Set a timer for 15 minutes and tackle one category—books, toys, or that mysterious drawer of cables you swear you’ll need someday. You’ll be amazed how much you can clear when you race against the clock. Bonus: It feels like a game, not a chore. Pro tip: Put on your favorite upbeat playlist and pretend you’re in a home makeover montage.

3. The “Gift Prep” Rule

Here’s the truth: Christmas brings more stuff. So before you add new décor and gifts, make space for them. For every new holiday item you plan to buy, remove one old item. Think of it as a festive trade-in program. That old chipped mug? Out. The random candle that smells like regret? Gone. This rule keeps clutter from multiplying like elves on espresso.

4. The Seasonal Swap

November is perfect for swapping out summer vibes for winter coziness. If you haven't already, pack away beach towels, sun hats, and patio cushions. Use labeled bins (future you will thank you) and store them neatly. Suddenly, your home feels lighter and ready for fairy lights. Bonus tip: If you find something you didn’t use all summer, consider donating it instead of storing it again.

5. The Donation Sleigh

Don’t just toss—give! Fill a box with gently used clothes, toys, and household items and donate them before December. Not only do you clear space, but you spread a little pre-Christmas joy. It’s like being Santa without the reindeer license. Plus, knowing your clutter is helping someone else makes the process feel less like a chore and more like a good deed.

Decluttering in November is about creating breathing room for the magic to come. So light a candle, play your favorite cozy playlist, and start small. By the time December rolls in, you’ll have a home that’s ready to sparkle!

Love, Katerina