The fireworks are over, the autumn evenings are drawing in and Christmas is suddenly on the horizon!
But before the Christmas shopping begins in earnest, why not take a little time in November to get your home ready?
A little decluttering now can make December feel calmer, less stressful and much more enjoyable. And remember, getting organised doesn’t mean spending money or buying lots of new things. It’s about making the most of what you already have.
Here are my top tips for getting ahead before the festive season begins.
1. Declutter the children’s toys
With new toys and games potentially arriving at Christmas, now is a great time to have a sort-out. Encourage children to choose toys they no longer play with. Donate, sell or pass on anything in good condition and make room for the things they’ll really enjoy.
2. Reclaim the spare room
Expecting family or friends over Christmas? Don’t leave the spare room until the last minute! Clear away those boxes, unwanted clothes and bits and pieces that have accumulated. Fresh bedding and a tidy space are all you need to make guests feel welcome.
3. Make room for the Christmas tree
Think about where your tree will go. Could you rearrange the furniture or clear a cluttered corner? A little planning now means no frantic furniture moving when December arrives!
4. Give the lounge a refresh
The lounge is often the heart of Christmas celebrations. Clear coffee tables, tidy shelves, sort through magazines and remove unwanted ornaments. Create some lovely space for decorations and cosy evenings together.
5. Sort out the kitchen and crockery
Take a look through your cupboards. Clear out chipped plates, unwanted mugs and crockery you never use. Check what you have for Christmas dinner and organise your serving dishes so everything is easy to find when you need it.
6. Plan your Christmas budget
This year, more than ever, it’s important to remember that Christmas doesn’t have to be expensive.
Set a realistic budget, plan your food shopping, agree spending limits for presents and reuse decorations you already own. Homemade gifts, second-hand treasures and shared experiences can be just as special.
7. Turn unwanted clutter into extra cash
Could your unwanted items help towards Christmas expenses?
In the UK, try:
• Vinted – clothes, shoes and accessories.
• eBay – toys, games, collectibles and household items.
• Facebook Marketplace – furniture and larger items locally.
• Gumtree – household goods and furniture.
• Car boot sales – a great way to clear several items at once.
Alternatively, donate good-quality items to charity and give them another life.
Your November challenge: Just 10 minutes a day!
Don’t try to tackle everything at once. Choose one small area each day and spend just 10–15 minutes decluttering.
By the end of November, you’ll have made a real difference without feeling overwhelmed.
One little thought before you start shopping…
Before buying something new, ask yourself:
Do I really need it? Do I have space for it? Will I use it?
At Clear Mountain Decluttering, I always encourage quality over quantity and simplicity over clutter.
Christmas isn’t about how much we buy or how perfect our homes look. It’s about making space for family, friends and the moments that matter.
Your Christmas reminder:
Make room, not more clutter. Buy less, enjoy more, and give everything a home.
Here’s to a calmer, more organised Christmas!