The holidays bring a lot of activity to most homes, from joy and celebration to a bit of chaos. But as the season winds down, it’s time to do something about those scattered decorations, leftover party supplies, and that pile of wrapping paper in the corner. A dedicated post-holiday cleanup is a chance to reset the space and get it cozy for the rest of the winter.
Even if you – like many – tackled a deep clean before the holidays, these moments right after are a perfect time to tackle any leftover messes and forgotten corners. As Hire A Maid, a dependable local cleaning company, recommends, this is how you reclaim your space while keeping it comfortable and warm. Here’s what you should do:
1. Tackle the Post-Holiday Mess
After the celebrations, most of your attention will need to go to shared spaces like the living room or the dining room. So, start by tidying up any leftover gift wrap, bows, and tags from the unwrapping frenzy. If there are any spills or stains left over from the holiday meals or drinks, now’s the time to tackle them before they set in.
Declutter the area by finding appropriate homes for new gifts. Though the kids will likely like to keep that elaborate toy set on display for a bit, make sure that the area is functional. Don’t aim for perfection! Focus on comfort: clear pathways, no unnecessary clutter, and a cozy ambiance.
2. Take Down & Pack Decorations
Taking down decorations can feel bittersweet, but it’s an important step in returning your home back to its everyday charm. Carefully remove ornaments, lights, and other festive items, and then organize them into labeled boxes or bins to make finding everything easier for the next year.
If you’re not ready to part with the twinkle and cheer just yet, it’s okay to leave a few pieces up a little longer. String lights or a cozy wreath can carry some of that holiday warmth into the winter months without taking up too much space or effort. Whatever you decide, always pack your decorations securely and intentionally to protect them for future use.
3. Post-Holiday Kitchen Cleaning
No matter how diligent you were with pre-holiday cleaning, the festive cooking leaves its mark. Now’s the time to tackle the kitchen thoroughly! Clean all the major appliances to remove grease and spills. Wipe down countertops, cabinets, and backsplashes to clear away crumbs or splatters. Just make sure to use all household chemicals safely!
Don’t forget the fridge! Toss any leftovers you likely won’t eat, wipe down the shelves, and reorganize items for a clean, fresh start. If you haven’t done it before the holidays, now could also be the ideal time to reach inside areas like cabinet interiors, behind appliances, and more for a really thorough start-of-the-year clean.
4. Tackle Forgotten Corners
As the decorations come down and the house gets tidier, you’ll likely notice that a few forgotten areas now need your attention. For example, you should check the spots where your holiday décor was displayed for dust, fallen pine needles, or glitter. These little messes don’t matter much in the middle of festivities, but you should address them if you want to make your home as cozy as it can be for the rest of the winter.
Other areas that may need your attention include entryways, with boots and winter gear piled up, or under furniture that you temporarily moved for guests or extra seating. Don’t forget to give all of these areas in your home at least a quick vacuum!
Start Your Year Right
In the days and weeks just after the holidays, your cleaning routine should be all about finding that perfect balance between restoring order and keeping the space cozy and cheerful for the rest of the winter. So, take some time to thoroughly clean all areas that bore the brunt of the celebrations, and then enjoy the rest of the season in your refreshed home.
And if the holidays, guests, and endless to-do lists have left you without time or energy for post-holiday cleanup, professional cleaning services are an excellent choice too. Whether you handle it yourself or get a little help, these steps will keep your home peaceful and welcoming as the new year begins.
