14 Oct The Art of Seasonal Decluttering: What to Let Go of Before the Holidays
As temperatures drop and holiday plans pick up, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by everything coming your way. That’s why fall is an ideal time to declutter and get organized—before guests arrive, your calendar fills up, and the seasonal to-do list begins.
If you want to glide into the holiday season instead of scrambling, here are a few areas to clear out now so you can make space (literally and mentally!) for what matters most.
Out-of-Season Wardrobes: Time to Rotate & Edit
But before you stash everything in a bin until next year, take a moment to edit:
- What didn’t you wear this summer?
- What no longer fits or feels like “you”?
- What’s damaged beyond repair or stained beyond help?
Be honest and let those pieces go. You’ll thank yourself next spring when unpacking a lighter, more intentional wardrobe.
Always clean clothes before storing them—body oils and unseen dirt can set in and attract pests over time. For each item:
- Wash or dry clean before packing
- Fold knits and softer fabrics to avoid stretching
- Use garment bags for delicate or structured pieces like dresses or blazers
Add a lavender sachet or cedar block to bins or drawers to keep things fresh and moth-free.
Never store anything in dry-cleaning bags; they trap chemicals and moisture and cause yellowing.
Gift Closets & Wrapping Stations: Declutter Before It Piles Up
Fall is the perfect time to get your gift station in order before the holidays hit full force. Toss out crushed gift bags, tangled ribbon, and dried-up tape dispensers. Take inventory of what you already have—giftable items, tags, wrap, and boxes—so you don’t overbuy in December.
Even better: stock up now while seasonal supplies are easy to find and not picked over.
Here are a few great product ideas for building or upgrading a gift wrap station. You can mix and match based on space and needs:
Elfa Gift Wrap Cart, Elfa Classic Mesh Gift Wrap Door & Wall Rack, Customized Gift Wrap Center – all from The Container Store.
Kitchen Counters & Pantry Shelves: Prep for Entertaining
The holidays often mean more cooking, more hosting, and more chaos. Clear your kitchen counters of anything that doesn’t spark ease—whether it’s unused appliances or stacks of mail.
In the pantry:
- Group like with like (baking, snacks, canned goods)
- Check for expired or stale food
- Make space for seasonal ingredients and holiday treats
You’ll feel more in control and ready to host with confidence.
Seasonal Décor: Rotate, Refresh & Simplify
Before the decorating begins—take inventory. What do you actually love putting out each season? What always stays in the bin?
If you don’t love it, someone else might, so donate any items you no longer use.
Decluttering your décor lets you focus on the pieces that bring you joy, not guilt. Store it by season and label bins clearly for a smoother transition year-round.
Make a Holiday Game Plan
If your calendar is already filling up, this is the moment to make some proactive decisions:
- What events are must-dos?
- What can be simplified, skipped, or outsourced?
Even planning ahead to book help with decorating, wrapping, guest prep, or shopping can turn a chaotic season into one that actually feels merry.
Ready to Simplify Your Holiday Season?
You don’t have to do it all. Whether you need help organizing your home, prepping for guests, or managing your seasonal to-do list, North County Concierge is here to help you feel less overwhelmed and more in control.
Let’s lighten your load before the holidays hit.
📅 Book a free consult today — and give yourself the gift of peace this season.