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Once the last guest has left and the wrapping paper has been cleared, the quiet after Christmas can feel both welcome and, if we’re honest, a little confronting. A house full of leftovers, decorations and general festive fallout has the habit of morphing into overwhelm just as we’ve sat down to survey the state of things. The good news? Switching your brain into reset mode is easier than you think, especially when you have our tried and tested tips for tackling that post-Christmas clean-up to keep you on track.
This practical guide breaks the processes down into manageable steps that cover everything from quick Boxing Day wins to full resets you can prioritise in the weeks ahead.
From figuring out what to do with all that leftover food to storing decorations and recycling wrapping paper, here’s how to tackle the post-Christmas clean up efficiently and start the new year on the right note.
Quick wins for a simple post-Christmas clean up
These small tasks might feel inconsequential, but we guarantee they’ll make the biggest immediate difference – and importantly, help your home feel liveable again fast.
Clear the obvious clutter
Start by collecting stray glasses, plates and decorations from all the living areas, taking care to return everything to its proper place – no side quests! A single walk-through with a laundry basket (or similar) works wonders for gathering with little effort.
Deal with leftover food
Consider the consumption of any leftover ham and turkey as a priority decluttering task. After all, we can’t think of a better snack to fuel your Christmas clean up – especially when it has the added benefit of clearing out your fridge at the same time.
While you’re snacking, do a sweep of the shelves and clear out any condiments or leftovers that you might find lurking in the back, making sure to bring any fresh food to the front. Additionally, now is the time to freeze anything that will keep, and compost scraps where possible.
If you still find yourself with more food than mouths to feed, these simple recipes that make use of leftover ham are a solid choice for repurposing your festive favourites. Otherwise, don’t be shy about donating any non-perishables to local food pantries or charity centres.
Set small goals
Tackling the entire home at once? Ugh, that’s exhausting. But thinking of clearing up as a series of smaller decluttering tasks. Suddenly, it seems a lot more achievable. Especially when you start delegating.
Photographer: Sue Stubbs | Stylist: John Mangila
Organise your ornaments as you pack them up
When packing away decorations, separate breakables from non-breakables (egg cartons make great packaging for anything delicate) and from there, divide your ornaments into categories to make your life easier next year. Categorise into outdoor ornaments, tree ornaments, miscellaneous ornaments, wreaths, stockings, and tinsel and other garlands. While you’re at it, make sure to toss anything that’s broken, tattered or just plain tired.
Don’t get yourself in a tangle! Wrap your fairy lights around a coat hanger or wrapping paper tube so they’re easy to unravel next year.
Still throwing your decorations in a box and hoping for the best next year? We recommend treating yourself to some proper storage, that’s guaranteed to keep your Christmas decorations pristine for years to come.
Tackle the Christmas tree properly
Taking down the Christmas Tree can feel like a daunting task, especially when you’re dealing with pine needles and carpet (IYKYK), but trust us when we tell you there is a better way to do things.
If you have hard flooring, then vacuum or sweep any visible pine needles to avoid spreading them throughout the house, then wrap a large tablecloth around the tree to stop any further shedding before taking it to your chosen disposal centre. If you’re not sure how to get rid of a real Christmas tree, there are a number of eco-friendly options available, here, and your local council will have specific information about Christmas tree recycling options.
How to get rid of Christmas tree needles from carpet
When it comes to carpet, that’s where things can get a little tricky. But lucky for you, we’ve found the best hack for lifting those dreaded needles from your soft flooring.
Start by layering a light dusting of baking soda over the covered area and work in with the brush part of a brush and tray. While you wait, the enzymes in the powder will help to loosen any stubborn needles before finishing them off with a vacuum. Trust us, it makes a huge difference.
Donate unwanted gifts
Start by taking an inventory of everything you recieved. If something isn’t right for you, consider donating it while it’s still new. Many charities appreciate post-Christmas donations, and passing items on early prevents your cupboards filling up with unnecessary things.
Keep a bag near the front door for any items or unwanted gifts you plan on donating. But make sure you’re offering the right stuff and are aware of the dos and don’ts of donating to charity.
Before you make the call, consider whether any of the items could work for anyone else in your life as a future regifting option – a taboo we have strong opinions about.
Reuse or recycle responsibly
Post Christmas clutter has a way of lingering – unless you act quickly. Reduce waste this Christmas by recycling wrapping paper and cards you don’t intend to keep. Unwanted cards and wrapping can also be kept for kids craft projects.
Make sure you break down cardboard boxes, separate wrapping paper from ribbons and dispose of batteries or broken fairy lights via the appropriate recycling programs.
Stubborn stains
Spills and stains may be a sign of a good time but that doesn’t make them any less annoying. Check your carpets/rugs/upholstery for stains ASAP because the longer they’re left, the harder they’ll be to remove.
Now is the time to test out the viral stain remover you might have been gifted over Christmas – or simply follow these tried and tested stain removal tricks that’ll have your home looking spotless in no time.
Let the house breathe
Open the windows, pull back curtains and let fresh air circulate (and a little of the honey ham smell out). Better yet, simmer a pot of water with cinnamon sticks and halved lemons for an instantly fresh scent.
