Things to Do and Clean Before Christmas

As the holiday season creeps in, there’s no denying the incredible feeling of anticipation in Australia. With Christmas just around the corner, it’s time to turn your attention to the task at hand: getting your home ready for the festivities. You might be feeling slightly overwhelmed with questions such as “What do I need to do before Christmas?” and the like, but worry not. In this post, you will learn just that and more.

Planning your pre-Christmas cleanup

Be organised and not random when you get down to cleaning before Christmas. Time is of the essence, and the more things you manage to clean before Christmas, the better. This is where a good plan comes into play.

• Plan for efficiency – Start by gathering all the necessary cleaning supplies ahead of time. This step ensures that you have everything you need at your fingertips, eliminating the need for interruptions during your cleaning process. Whether it’s all-purpose cleaners, disinfectants, microfiber cloths, or trash bags, having your arsenal ready allows you to move seamlessly from one task to another when you start your pre-Christmas cleanup;
• Create a checklist for all rooms and areas – List down specific cleaning tasks for each room and area of your home, from the living room to the laundry room. This checklist will act as a visual guide, preventing tasks from slipping through the cracks and helping you maintain a systematic and organised approach. Be detailed in your checklist, specifying actions such as dusting and vacuuming, so no corner of your home is left untouched;
• Allocate time slots for each task – Break down your cleaning checklist into manageable time slots or specific days. Assigning dedicated time slots to individual tasks prevents overwhelming last-minute rushes and allows you to tackle each cleaning activity with the same focus and efficiency. By spreading out the workload, you not only minimise stress but also ensure that no area of your home is neglected. This approach enables you to pace yourself, making the entire cleaning process more achievable and less burdensome during the bustling holiday season.

Decluttering before decorating

Decluttering before decorating brings a sense of calm to your home, allowing your holiday decorations to shine without visual distractions. Cleaning routines also become simpler with fewer possessions, plus a tidy home fosters a positive and welcoming atmosphere. As you can see, there are only benefits in following some holiday decluttering tips. With that said…

1. Declutter room by room – Tackle one room at a time to avoid feeling overwhelmed. This focused approach allows you to make systematic decisions about each item, ensuring a more effective decluttering process;
2. Categorise items – Create 3 distinct groups for your old items: things to keep, things to donate, and items to dispose of. This initial sorting will provide a clear starting point for your decluttering efforts;
3. Set a time limit – Give yourself a set amount of time for decluttering sessions. This prevents burnout and helps maintain focus, making the process more manageable;
4. Create a festive room – Prepare your home for holiday gatherings by strategically decluttering common areas where guests are likely to gather. This step not only enhances the visual appeal but also creates a more inviting atmosphere for celebrations;
5. Focus on high-traffic zones – This ensures that everyone has sufficient space to move around, mingle, and fully enjoy the festive atmosphere;
6. Prevent overcrowding and make room for gifts – Decluttering before the holidays serves a dual purpose. By creating space in your home, you not only prevent it from feeling overcrowded during gatherings but also ensure there’s enough room for new gifts;
7. Clear space for belongings – Empty drawers and hangers in the closet. This simple step makes it easy for guests to unpack and settle in, contributing to a clutter-free environment that fosters a more relaxed and enjoyable stay.

Deep cleaning high-traffic areas

You need to deep-clean your house before Christmas, so let’s focus on the high-traffic zones – the living room, kitchen, and bathrooms. Basically, the rooms where guests are sure to spend the most time.
Step-by-step cleaning tips before Christmas

In no particular order, start with the…

Living Room

Kitchen

Bathrooms

Garden and outdoor areas

Besides deep cleaning your home, now is also the right time to clean your artificial Christmas tree if you have one.

Preparing guest rooms

Creating a welcoming haven for your holiday guests involves thoughtful attention to every detail. Begin with the basics—fresh linens that not only provide comfort but also contribute to a restful night’s sleep. Opt for seasonal fabrics like breathable cotton or linen, setting the stage for a cozy atmosphere in the guest room. As you dress the bed, consider layering with a festive throw or blanket in warm colours. This not only adds a touch of warmth but also enhances the overall holiday ambience, creating a snug retreat for your visitors.

Moving on to the bathroom, elevate the guest experience with quality towels. Investing in plush, high-quality towels adds a sense of luxury, ensuring your guests feel pampered during their stay. Neatly folded and easily accessible, these towels become a practical yet indulgent touch in the guest bathroom. To infuse a spa-like atmosphere into the space, consider using eucalyptus. Whether through strategically placed eucalyptus sprigs or incorporating eucalyptus oil into your bathroom routine, the subtle fragrance promotes relaxation, adding an extra layer of comfort for your guests.

When it comes to festive decor, think of thoughtful accents that add a touch of holiday spirit without overwhelming the space. A decorative pillow featuring a classic Christmas pattern or a subtle wreath on the door can be just the right amount of festivity. Personal touches matter too. Tailor the decor to your guests’ preferences if you know them well. A small detail reflecting their tastes can make them feel truly at home, enhancing their overall experience.

Pay attention to lighting to create the perfect ambience. A bedside lamp with a soft, warm glow is ideal for creating a relaxing environment, especially for guests who enjoy winding down with a good book before sleep. Ensure that the lighting is practical, allowing guests to navigate the room comfortably.

What’s your experience with pre-Christmas cleaning and preparation? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below