A simple plan to get your home holiday-ready without overwhelm.
Cleaning List
1. Start With Decluttering
Before you clean, clear out what you don’t need.
- Remove old décor you won’t use this season.
- Donate unused items, toys, coats, and blankets.
- Clear entryways, counters, and common areas.
Why: Less clutter = faster cleaning + more room for Christmas décor.
2. Focus on High-Traffic Areas
These areas matter most when guests arrive:
- Living room
- Dining room
- Entryway
- Guest bathroom
Quick tasks:
- Dust surfaces, lamps, shelves, and TV stands.
- Vacuum or sweep floors.
- Fluff couch pillows and wash throw blankets.
- Add a light holiday scent (pine candle, cinnamon spray, etc.).
3. Deep Clean Key Spots
Choose a few areas to deep clean so the whole house feels fresh.
Kitchen
- Wipe appliances (fridge, microwave, stove).
- Clean out the fridge before holiday cooking.
- Disinfect counters and cabinet handles.
- Mop the floors.
Bathrooms
- Scrub sinks, toilets, and mirrors.
- Replace towels with fresh holiday-colored ones if you have them.
- Restock soaps, tissues, and candles.
4. Prepare the Guest Areas
If you’re hosting:
- Wash guest bedding.
- Vacuum carpets and mop floors.
- Set out toiletries (mini shampoo, soaps, extra towels).
- Add a small festive touch—garland, candle, or lights.
5. Decorate as You Clean
This keeps things fun and motivates you.
- Put up your tree after the living room is clean.
- Add wreaths after the entryway is done.
- Place table décor once the dining table is wiped and cleared.
6. Final Touches for Christmas Week
- Take out the trash and recycling.
- Do a quick sweep and vacuum.
- Freshen linens and replace hand towels.
- Light a holiday candle or start a diffuser.
- Turn on Christmas lights before guests arrive.
