How to Clean Up Holiday Clutter

Comments Dec 29, 2011 | Christmas, Kids, New Year, Paperwork

Raise your hand if you are just now taking down holiday decorations! No, definitely not me, but for many people, holiday decorations might not come down until January 6th, known as the Epiphany or Kings Day. So if this is you, its time to talk holiday clutter!

Today we are talking about the 3 most important things you can do between Christmas and New Year’s to get yourself clutter free for the New Year ahead.

1. Edit the Toys: For as many toys as may have come in over the holidays, make sure that same amount or more go out. I’ve got a trunk full of Barbie items that are hand-me-downs that have since been replaced now that my daughter received her very own Barbie house. We don’t need them anymore and someone else will be able to use them well. Make sure that when you donate toys, they are in good working condition, not broken in any way, and all the parts are included. Just like for your own child, every child deserves toys in good order. And don’t think they don’t have a good place to go now that Christmas is over. Day care centers, homeless shelters, and respite homes for families in crisis need new toys all year long.

2. Holiday Decor: If you didn’t put it out, you won’t use it next year so don’t bother keeping it around. We’ve got a tree with lights out, we’ve tried for 3 years to fix it including resorting to adding new lights and its still not working. Its already on my list for next year to buy a new one. Get rid of what isn’t working, donate what you don’t need, and simply throw out what you can’t salvage.

3. Keep Good Tax Records: The Goodwill Industries website has a wonderful Tax Valuation Guide with everything from household items to toys and clothing. That will help you when you drop off a trunk full of items to estimate how many toys there were and the estimated value, how many pieces of clothing and that estimated value. Your treasure is just as important a donation as your talent and time. Even if your treasure isn’t money, it still has a tax break value and worth sharing.

Extra Credit: Check the donation center that you might visit for their hours and a list of acceptable items to drop off. For example, many centers do not accept stuffed animals or bedding. However there are places who will put them to good use so make sure to do that research. The week between Christmas and New Year’s can be busy at these outlets because everyone is trying to make the most of that last opportunity to donate and so should you.

I hope these tips help you this week and I look forward to seeing you in the wonderfully organized New Year ahead! Tell me ~

How do you clear out your holiday clutter?

Thanks so much for stopping by ~ we’ll see you next time!

Warmly,

Molly