9 Areas Of Your Home To Declutter Before Thanksgiving

Ashley Stefanko • November 7, 2022

A kitchen with stainless steel appliances and wooden cabinets

Having an organized home can be directly related to stress level, especially when it’s you that is hosting the holiday gatherings.

Starting early is key and will give you time to methodically go through your home. This will allow you to concentrate on the priority areas that will be functional for you and comforting for your guests. You just might create the possibility of allowing yourself the opportunity to relax and enjoy the festivities as well.

Here is a list of areas to declutter to lessen the stress of the upcoming holidays:

Kitchen

The kitchen is the heart of the home for good reason. There is just something about the simple caring act of making food and serving it to bring nourishment to those we love. Cooking a big Thanksgiving dinner takes extra time and space. Wouldn’t it be easier with a clear, organized space to work in?

Cabinets & Drawers

A before and after photo of a kitchen cabinet filled with dishes.

Usually, countertops tend to become cluttered because cabinets are overstuffed with many unused items that are no longer used or gadgets that are no longer needed. That big lobster pot used once a year? Relocate to another area for more space. Did you buy new pots and pans? Get rid of the old rusty ones. Go through each cabinet and pare down and donate what you don’t use anymore.

A before and after photo of a kitchen drawer filled with utensils.

This will create space to clear your…

Countertops

Are your countertops so cluttered that you have one square foot to do everything? Start by removing old school papers, home paperwork and mail that has piled up and relocate elsewhere (after visiting the recycle bin!). Also remove excess décor that doesn’t serve a purpose, or you no longer love.

Put away items that you only use occasionally. You might use the toaster a few times a week, but it takes less than 10 seconds to put it away and will free-up valuable counterspace.

Can you remove the ugly, dust-collecting knife block to create more space? What about the utensil crock that you have had forever, but now just holds too many cooking utensils that you don’t really use?

Pantry

People are always surprised by how much expired food is taking up valuable space in their pantry. You know what I’m talking about … the cans of pumpkin and cranberry from last year’s Thanksgiving feast.

Taking stock of what you currently have and clearing out your pantry to make room will not only save you space, but it will save you money. Why buy duplicates of items you already have on hand? If you have food that is not expired, but you know your family will not eat, donate it to a local food bank.

Fridge

The best time to clean a fridge is right before a big shop – when it’s the emptiest. Clean the shelves and take inventory of what’s needed. Check expiration dates too! It’s amazing how the salad dressing hides in the back for so long. That way, you will have plenty of space for Thanksgiving ingredients and leftovers!

Dining room

The formal dining room usually becomes a storage dumping ground for storage or a homework spot. It’s a good idea to clear it out to make it comfortable for dinner guests!

Go ahead and declutter table linens and serving pieces too. A simple white platter can be used year-round, versus one with a giant turkey on it that might not be so festive for Memorial Day. Take this opportunity to polish the silver and wash your crystal glasses early so that is checked off your to do list as well.

Family room

Make sure there is room for your guests to relax and visit! Start by decluttering old paperwork off end tables and books you have read that are now ready to be passed along. Remove piles that may have formed in the corners.

Guest Room

Just like your dining room, your guest room may have become an easy, out of the way storage spot. If you’re anticipating some overnight guests, go ahead and wash the bedding. Be sure to layout fresh fluffy towels, and even add a little sign with WIFI info and TV instructions.

Adding a fan for noise, hand lotion and an extra blanket is always a nice touch for your guests. Be sure to have some free space and hangers available in the closet so your guests have somewhere to store their things. Some empty drawers in the dresser so your guests don’t have to live out of a suitcase is always thoughtful as well.

Declutter Expectations

COVID-19 changed the holidays for a lot of people. While it was disappointing to not be able to see loved ones, others found it beneficial to slow down and enjoy the holidays versus running around trying to please everyone and feeling stressed-out and overwhelmed (especially for Moms!). Take time to decide what is best for you and your family and have open discussions on plans for the holidays. It’s okay to change traditions if they are no longer serving your family’s needs!

If you are under a time crunch, now is not the time to worry about the attic or your kid’s messy closet. Focus on the priority areas first.

Less Stuff. More Life.

If you’re having a hard time getting started because the thought of organizing your entire home seems so overwhelming, just set a timer for 20 minutes and GO! When the timer beeps, keep going and do it again or take a break.

If in doubt, I’m always here to help, with an extra set of hands or encouraging words and helpful tips! Book a FREE discovery call.

Cheers to less stress and more joy in your life this holiday season!

Ashley

< Older Post Newer Post >

A living room with a couch and a coffee table.

Spring into Organization with Home Reimagined Refresh Your Home This Season

By Ashley Stefanko • March 28, 2025

A Fresh Start for Your Home Spring is a season of renewal. As flowers bloom and the days grow longer, it’s the perfect time to embrace new beginnings—especially when it comes to getting organized. Whether you want to declutter your home, refresh your space, or prepare for a move, spring offers the ideal opportunity to start fresh. Why Spring is the Perfect Time to Get Organized 1. Out with the Old, In with the New Spring cleaning is a long-standing tradition for a reason. After months of being indoors during the colder seasons, our homes can accumulate clutter and unnecessary items. Now is the time to reassess what you need, donate what you don’t, and create a more functional, stress-free space. 2. Boost Energy & Productivity A cluttered home can lead to a cluttered mind. Organizing your home can reduce stress, improve focus, and boost overall productivity. With the motivation that comes from fresh spring air and natural light, you’ll find it easier to tackle those long-overdue projects. 3. A Seamless Transition for Seasonal Changes Spring is the perfect time to switch out your winter wardrobe, store holiday decorations, and make room for lighter, brighter decor. Organizing now ensures that everything is in its proper place, making transitions between seasons effortless. 4. Preparing for Life Changes For many, spring signals a time of transition—whether it’s moving to a new home, preparing for a growing family, or simply embracing a new chapter. Getting organized can help make these transitions smoother and less overwhelming. 5. Creating a Home You Love Your home should be a place of comfort and joy. When everything has a designated space, and your surroundings feel clean and organized, you’ll enjoy a sense of peace and relaxation that enhances your everyday life. Ready to Reimagine Your Home? If you’re feeling overwhelmed by clutter or need guidance in reorganizing your home, Home Reimagined is here to help. Our expert organization will transform your space, making it more functional, stylish, and stress-free. Spring is the season of new beginnings—why not start with your home? Contact us today and take the first step toward a beautifully organized space! Let’s embrace the season of renewal and reimagine your home together! 📞 Contact us today to get started!

How Can a Home Organizer Help Simplify Your Life and Reduce Stress?

By Shannon Loy • April 7, 2024

Picture walking into your home after a long day to find everything in its place, each item purposefully arranged to create a sense of calm and order. A home organizer can transform your living space into a haven of tranquility, where chaos is replaced by harmony. But how exactly can this transformation take place, and what benefits can it bring to your daily life? Let’s explore the ways in which a home organizer can simplify your routines and alleviate the stress that comes with a cluttered environment.

How Can You Maintain Office Organization Systems for Long-Term Success?

By Shannon Loy • April 7, 2024

Imagine your office space as a serene lake, where each item is a ripple disrupting the calm surface. To ensure sustained organization success, you must cultivate habits that nurture this tranquility. From setting clear goals to fostering collaboration, each step plays a crucial role. But what happens when the winds of change start to blow, challenging your meticulously arranged system? Find out how to fortify your office organization strategies to weather any storm and emerge stronger on the other side.

Say Goodbye to Hidden Clutter!

By Ashley Stefanko • March 26, 2024

Does your home look tidy… until you open a closet, cabinet, or drawer only to be greeted by an avalanche of clutter? It’s easy for clutter to accumulate behind closed doors, out of sight but not out of mind. Here is a simple and specific decluttering checklist where you can tackle 30 smaller organizing projects, most in 30 minutes or less! In a month, your home could be less cluttered and more organized. Imagine the feeling of being productive and satisfaction when you finish the space and can check it off as DONE!

Why Does a Well-Organized Kitchen Improve Your Cooking Experience?

By Shannon Loy • March 10, 2024

In the realm of culinary arts, the kitchen serves as the epicenter of creativity, experimentation, and passion. However, the journey from raw ingredients to a delectable masterpiece is greatly influenced by the organization of the cooking space. The art of cooking is a symphony of flavors and techniques, and a well-organized kitchen lays the foundation for a seamless and enjoyable cooking experience. In this blog, we delve into the reasons why a well-organized kitchen is crucial for enhancing your culinary endeavors, and how professional organizing services, such as those offered by Home Reimagined, can make a significant difference.

Why Invest in Unpacking Services for a Stress-Free Relocation?

By Shannon Loy • March 10, 2024

Moving to a new home is undoubtedly an exciting chapter in one’s life. However, the process of relocation can often be overwhelming, with the myriad of tasks involved in packing, transporting, and settling into a new space. Among these, unpacking is a significant aspect that often gets overlooked, leading to chaos and stress. This is where investing in professional unpacking services, such as those offered by Home Reimagined, can make a world of difference. In this blog, we will explore the importance of unpacking services , with a focus on kitchen organization, home organization, and the benefits of hiring a professional organizer.

Why is Kitchen Organization Crucial for Healthy Eating Habits?

By Shannon Loy • February 14, 2024

Imagine stepping into a kitchen where everything is in its proper place – neatly arranged shelves, labeled containers, and a clutter-free countertop. The sight alone brings a sense of calm and order, but did you know that a well-organized kitchen is crucial for maintaining healthy eating habits? It may sound surprising, but the way your kitchen is organized can significantly impact the choices you make when it comes to food. From making meal planning easier to ensuring nutritious ingredients are readily available, the benefits of kitchen organization extend far beyond just tidiness. So, why is kitchen organization so crucial for healthy eating habits? Let’s explore the reasons together.

Why Opting for Unpacking Services Saves You Time and Effort Post-Move?

By Shannon Loy • February 14, 2024

Did you know that opting for unpacking services after your move can save you a significant amount of time and effort? Moving to a new home can be a daunting task, and once you arrive at your destination, the last thing you want to do is spend hours unpacking and organizing your belongings. But fear not, because there is a solution that can make this process much smoother and hassle-free. By enlisting the help of professional unpacking services, you can sit back, relax, and let the experts take care of the unpacking for you. But why exactly should you consider this option? Well, several compelling reasons will make you want to explore this further.