The Holiday Decor Hangover: When to Take It Down and Where to Put It All
- shinosaurcleaning
- Dec 26, 2025
- 3 min read
Whether your home was filled with twinkle lights, menorahs, diyas, lanterns, snowflake garlands, festive greenery, or general winter sparkle, one thing is universal:
Taking it down is never as fun as putting it up.
You might be sentimental.
You might be overwhelmed.
You might be staring at your decor wondering how on earth you accumulated this much joy in physical form.
If your space looks like the holidays held a grand finale inside your living room, this guide is for you.
So... when should you take down your seasonal decor?
There is no right way.
No rulebook.
No universal date stamped on the calendar.
The correct answer is simple: whenever it feels right for you, your home, and your traditions.
But here are a few common timeframes and the energy behind them.
1. The “Clean Slate Now” Group: December 26 to January 1
You love the holiday glow, but once the day passes, you want your home to breathe again.
Why it works:
Instant calm
Helps reset your space before the new year
Clutter disappears fast
Perfect for people who love a fresh start.
2. The “Let’s Ride This a Bit Longer” Group: Early January
Many cultures celebrate holidays into early January, and many people simply like enjoying the lights a little longer.
Why it works:
Keeps the cozy mood going
Honors extended holiday traditions
Gives you time to wind down slowly
Great for households that love a gradual transition.
3. The “It Stays Until I’m Ready” Group: Whenever You Feel Like It
Winter is dark. Lights, decor, and warm details make a home feel comforting.
Why it works:
Supports mental well being
Extends cozy season
No pressure or deadlines
As long as you feel good in your space, you are doing it right.
Where to Put It All Without Losing Your Mind
Seasonal decor becomes chaos only when everything gets shoved into one sad, confused bin.Let’s fix that.
1. Sort by Zones Instead of Randomness
Instead of one giant box of “holiday stuff,” sort based on where things went.
Try sorting by:
window decor
table decor
lighting
mantel or shelf pieces
outdoor decorations
wrapping, gift bags, or seasonal textiles
Next year becomes effortless.
2. Use Clear Bins
Future you will not remember what “misc decor 2024” means.
Clear bins = instant sanity.
3. Wrap Fragile Decor in Soft Things You Already Own
Skip buying bubble wrap.
Use:
towels
scarves
soft cloths
lightweight blankets
reusable grocery bags
Eco friendly and smart.
4. Label Everything Clearly
You will thank yourself for this next year.
Label ideas:
“Window lights”
“Shelves and mantles”
“Outdoor decor”
“Gift bags and wrapping”
“Delicate pieces”
One label can save an entire afternoon of unpacking chaos.
5. Use Zip Bags or Pouches for Small Items
Hooks, clips, candles, dreidel sets, string light timers, mini ornaments, craft supplies... these things love to disappear.
Contain them now so you are not hunting for them next year.
6. Heaviest Items on the Bottom
Because crushed decor is heartbreaking.
Put sturdy items at the bottom and all delicate pieces up top.
7. Make an “Open First” Bin
This is your pro level move.
Inside it, include the things you always reach for first, such as:
hooks
command strips
extension cords
first lights you hang
candle holders
tabletop decor essentials
This makes next year feel stress free.
Bonus: What to Do With Decor You Didn’t Use
If something stayed in the bin all season, ask yourself:
Do I still like it?
Does it still fit my vibe?
Did I forget it existed?
If the answer is meh, donate it.
Your future storage situation will be lighter and less overwhelming.
You Did It. Seasonal Chaos Defeated.
Once everything is packed away, your home will feel open, calmer, and ready for whatever the new year brings.
And if your home is showing off its holiday adventures a little loudly, Shinosaur can help smooth things out.
Get your free instant quote at www.shinosaur.com/quote and let us help you recover from the sparkle storm.
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