With the end-of-year gift season approaching, fall is the ideal time to organize, downsize, donate, and discard items that have lost their purpose before the celebrations begin — according to a guide published by Southern Living.
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The website highlights that, although each home has different priorities, the focus should be on organizing any space guests will pass through, ensuring a functional, welcoming, and visually light home.
Organize the entryway
According to Southern Living, the front door creates the first visual impact for those who arrive. Even if visitors spend little time in this space, it is where the first impression is formed. The publication recommends organizing piles of shoes, replacing worn doormats, removing dust from corners, and paying attention to the coat closet, if there is one.
“Organize coats, boots, and backpacks in a way that makes coming and going easier,” advises Rebecca Deans, founder and CEO of SHIFT into Organized, in an interview with the magazine.
Clear the clutter and clean the kitchen
According to Southern Living, the kitchen remains the epicenter of holiday gatherings — and therefore requires extra attention. In addition to cleaning the refrigerator, the publication suggests a full sweep of the pantry to free up space for recipes, seasonal ingredients, and extra serving dishes.
“Remove expired items, restock basic products, and create space for holiday recipes and family gatherings,” Deans emphasizes.
The magazine also recommends clearing a few refrigerator shelves before events, especially when guests bring chilled dishes.
Prepare the guest bedroom
According to Southern Living, the secret to a harmonious welcome lies in anticipation. Changing bed linens, clearing out drawers, and leaving towels visible ensures real comfort and avoids last-minute stress before guests arrive.
“Organizing these spaces in advance reduces stress and creates a welcoming atmosphere for visitors,” Deans explains.
Take a look at the living room
Southern Living reminds readers that the living room is the social heart of the home — but also the place where small items quietly accumulate. From old magazines to pet toys, everything should have its place.
“Organizing surfaces and creating cozy, functional zones makes the space more inviting,” says Deans.
The magazine also recommends vacuuming sofas, checking behind furniture, and refreshing worn throws, preparing the space for nights of conversation, movies, and gatherings.
Organize the Christmas decoration storage area
Although not always visible to guests, the area where Christmas decoration boxes are stored needs to be functional, Southern Living points out. Whether it is an attic, garage, or basement, this is the moment to review what is truly worth keeping.
“Sort and discard what you don’t need before the season, so you only use what you truly love,” advises Deans.
The publication also warns about the “sunk cost fallacy”: keeping something just because it was expensive does not mean it is necessary. Donation, recycling, and disposal are allowed — and encouraged.
Source: Southern Living. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
