10 Ways To Declutter Christmas Decorations
Today I’m sharing how to declutter Christmas decorations—10 tips that really work!
Over the last two years, I’ve been simplifying my holiday decor and learning what makes it easier to keep only what I truly love. Christmas decorations can be incredibly sentimental, which makes them hard to part with. But I don’t want five overflowing bins of decor I only use once a year. These tips have helped me keep the best pieces, let go of the rest, and actually enjoy decorating when the season rolls around.
10 Ways to Declutter Christmas Decorations
1. Ask: Did I Use This Last Year?
When I’m unsure about an item, I ask one simple question: did I use it last year? If the answer is no, I ask if I’ll use it this year.
If it’s still no, I donate it. For me, skipping something two years in a row usually means I’ll never use it again. If it’s sentimental, I take a photo or see if a family member would like it.
2. Set a Bin Limit
One of the easiest ways to keep clutter under control is by setting a bin limit. Last year, I had three bins of Christmas decor. This year, I challenged myself to fit everything into just one large bin.
By starting with the pieces I love most, I found it easier to let go of the rest. A clear limit creates a natural boundary that makes decision-making simple.
3. Pick a Theme
Choosing a decorating theme helps cut down on excess. This year, I decided that anything bright, flashy, or worn out would go.
Faded towels, broken ornaments, or decor that no longer matched my style were easy to donate. When you know the look you’re going for, it becomes much easier to declutter what doesn’t fit.
4. Think About the Future
If I find myself questioning whether to keep something, that usually means I don’t really want it. I think about how I’ll feel unpacking my decorations next year.
Will this item make me happy or feel like clutter? I also think ahead—if I ever moved, would I want to pack and carry this piece? Future-you will thank present-you for keeping only the best.
5. Keep the Best, Let Go of the Rest
When I helped my mom go through her Christmas decorations, we set a goal to clear at least one bin. We started with the pieces we loved most, then found it easier to let go of the extras.
The truth is, decorations don’t do anyone any good sitting in a box for years.
Keeping the best and donating the rest makes space for joy.
6. Declutter Broken or Worn Items
It’s tempting to hold onto broken lights or ornaments that have been glued back together, but they rarely get used.
Instead of keeping things “just in case,” clear them out. Freeing yourself from worn or broken decor makes more room for pieces you truly enjoy.
7. Limit “Just-in-Case” Extras
Extra stockings, tablecloths, or duplicate ornaments can pile up quickly. Most of us never actually use those backups. Keep one or two versatile extras if you like, but let the rest go.
Decluttering those “just in case” items makes your collection feel lighter and more intentional.
8. Keep Only What You Display
If an item never makes it out of the bin and onto your shelves or tree, that’s a sign it doesn’t belong.
Pay attention to what you actually display each year and let go of what always stays packed away. Keeping only what you use makes decorating simpler and more enjoyable.
9. Let Go of Guilt Gifts
We’ve all kept gifts out of guilt, even when they don’t fit our home or style. But the love behind a gift isn’t tied to keeping the object forever.
If you don’t enjoy it, it’s okay to let it go. Someone else might love it more than you ever did.
10. Photograph Sentimental Pieces
Some Christmas decor holds powerful memories—like handmade ornaments or items from childhood. If you feel torn, take a picture before donating. A photo keeps the memory alive without taking up space in your home.
This simple step makes it easier to part with sentimental pieces while still honoring the story behind them.
🎄 Make Your Holidays Stress-Free 🎄
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by all the moving pieces of the holiday season, I’ve created a free Christmas planner to help you stay organized. Inside you’ll find pages for gifts, meals, events, and more—everything you need to simplify your December and actually enjoy it. You can grab your free planner here and start planning a calmer, more joyful Christmas today!
Decluttering Christmas Stuff
Decluttering Christmas decorations doesn’t mean giving up the joy of the season. It means choosing to keep only the things that truly make you smile. With fewer bins and less clutter, decorating becomes simpler, faster, and far more meaningful. This year, try a few of these tips and see how much lighter and more joyful your holiday season feels.
