5 Easy Steps to De-decorate Christmas

Does the idea of taking down Christmas overwhelm you? Do you put it off as long as possible because you just don't want to tackle the project. Well, friend. Here is your new quick and EASY 5-step system to eliminate your overwhelm! Grab some caffeine, turn on some inspiring and energetic music, and get-it-done! 

Step #1 - Take pictures! Before you do any de-decorating, make sure you take pictures of how you set things up this year. This will make next year's process of decorating SO much easier. It too can help you remember what you have and help you plan any changes you want to make next year ahead of time. Document the beauty you created this year, your future self will thank you! 

Step #2 -  Move all of your Christmas decorations into one room. Set aside a room to put ALL of the Christmas decorations in. I always use the dining room for this task. I take down every single decoration and place it all over the dining room table, the floor, and the hutch. I put them together by like item as I move them into the dining room, this helps with the packing up process later. 

Step #3 - Get organized! Pull out your Christmas tubs and get ready to store away your precious items! Sidenote: If you don't already have some sturdy storage tubs, go get yourself some! I have some strong large red tubs (with lids) that I got from Big Lots years ago for less then $5 a piece (and they are nice big ones!). Walmart and Target provide some great options as well! It doesn't take much money to be able to replace those broken down boxes you've been using for years. This will ensure your decor stays safe from water damage over the years. As you're taking down your Christmas decor, put things in a donate box. This is your time to purge your least favorite Christmas items. What is broken? What are you sick of? Donate it all. Don't store away things you aren't fond of for another year. Get rid of it! 

Step #4 - Pack it up, sista! Now that all of your Christmas decor is all in one room, bring in those big tubs and pack away everything carefully using bubble wrap and tissue paper.  Take your time with this task to ensure all of those precious breakable items are stored away carefully.  

Step #5 - CLEAN EVERYWHERE! Now that you have removed all of your Christmas decor, it's likely most of your furniture surfaces are clear, or nearly clear. Use this time to do a DEEP clean. Pull out the vacuum and dust rags and get to work. Take the time to vacuum behind and under furniture. I usually use this time to water all of my plants and assess how they are doing as well. It's the perfect time to deep clean the house and prepare for a fresh start to the new year! Then simply pull out those year- round decor items you had tucked away and put them where they belong {or get creative and move some things around!}.

Isn't it odd how the simplest tasks can sometimes send us into procrastination and overwhelm?!?! Sometimes it takes a friend to gently nudge you in the right direction to kick your booty into gear {you're welcome! ;) }. SO.. get to work and get it done! There is something fresh and exhilarating about starting the new year off with a clean and fresh slate in your home! During the month of January we are going to focus on cultivating an Intentional Home here on mandyscarr.com. I'd love for you to join us for for the journey!