Feeling Overwhelmed? Decluttering Before Christmas is the Answer
As the end of the year approaches, I always feel a sense of heaviness—too much to do, too much to manage, and too much stuff! If you feel the same way, you’re not alone.
I’ve learned that when the holiday hustle starts pulling me in too many directions, I need to shift my focus to subtracting. Less stress, less clutter, and more meaningful connections with family—because that’s what the season is truly about.
Just as Barbara Bush wisely said:
“At the end of your life, you will never regret not having passed one more test, not winning one more verdict, or not closing one more deal. You will regret time not spent with a husband, a friend, a child, or a parent.”
Decluttering before Christmas isn’t just about making space for new gifts—it’s about creating a fresh, calm environment where your kids (and you!) can truly enjoy the season. Just as our bodies naturally remove waste to stay healthy, our homes also need regular shedding of excess to maintain balance. Teaching this habit to children may take time, but instilling the practice of mindful decluttering will benefit them for a lifetime.
Why Decluttering Before Christmas Matters
Feeling overwhelmed by too many toys, clothes, and random things piling up? Your kids feel it too! Decluttering before Christmas teaches them valuable lessons about gratitude, generosity, and intentional living. More toys do NOT equal more play. However, having fewer toys does equal less cleanup both for you and your child. By regularly subtracting what no longer serves them, kids learn that letting go of excess creates more space for joy and creativity.
Benefits of Decluttering:
Less Overwhelm – Fewer toys = less mess.
More Play – Studies show that kids engage more with their toys when they have fewer options.
Easier Mornings – Streamlined closets mean no more “I have nothing to wear” meltdowns.
A Spirit of Giving – Teaching kids to donate helps them develop empathy and appreciation for what they have.
Ready to get started? Here are four key areas to declutter with your kids before Christmas.

1. Decluttering Toys: Less is More
Let’s be honest—your home will soon be filled with new toys from Santa, family, and friends. If there’s already no room, it’s time to make space!
Steps to Declutter Toys:
- Lay everything out and group similar items together (Legos, shopkins, action figures, dolls, etc.).
- Toss broken toys, incomplete puzzles, and anything unused for months.
- Let your child choose toys they no longer love—kids are often more decisive than we expect!
- Donate new unused toys to kids in need. (Check out local church drive or Toys for Tots.

2. Clothes and Shoes: Out with the Old
My children grow so fast that I don’t notice when they’ve outgrown their current wardrobe. One day their jeans fit, the next they’re capris! I wish there was a stop button so that I can have time to breathe in-between their growth spurts. Am I the only one? The holiday season is the perfect time to go through their clothes
Steps to Declutter Clothes:
- Do a quick sweep for anything too small, stained, or worn out.
- Have your child choose items they no longer like.
- Donate outgrown clothes to a local shelter or resale shop.
- Organize what remains to make getting dressed easier!

3. Art Supplies: Refresh Their Creativity Zone
Too many dried-out markers and broken crayons? It’s time to refresh their creative space!
Steps to Declutter Art Supplies:
- Toss anything dried out, broken, or nearly empty.
- Organize remaining supplies by type (markers, crayons, paper, etc.).
- Set up a dedicated space for creativity—an organized art area sparks inspiration!

4. Electronics: Clear the Digital Clutter
Tablets, game consoles, and headphones pile up quickly—especially when kids move on to the latest and greatest. Decluttering these items helps keep their space organized and functional.
Steps to Declutter Electronics:
- Gather all devices, games, and accessories.
- Remove anything broken or unused.
- Sell or trade-in old electronics at Best Buy, GameStop, or through Amazon’s Buyback Program.
- Keep what they still use and ensure everything has a proper storage place.
Bonus Tip: Have a Christmas Wish List Ready!
After decluttering, you’ll have a better idea of what your kids actually need. Avoid getting overwhelmed by gifts by using a wish list template! (Check out my free printable wish list from this post).
Final Thought:
By decluttering before Christmas, you’re setting up your family for a holiday season filled with joy, not stress. Your home will feel lighter, your kids will appreciate their belongings more, and you’ll start the new year with a fresh, organized space!
May your heart spill over with the love and magic of Christmas when your children’s eyes gleam and they smile from ear to ear, as they show you their gifts on Christmas morning; because you will know exactly where things will go when you get home.
Happy decluttering and happy holidays!
Now I’d love to hear from you: What’s one item you’re excited to declutter before Christmas? Share in the comments—I’d love to cheer you on!
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