Hosting guests for the holidays is a joy, but it can also bring a wave of stress if your home feels cluttered or disorganized. To ensure your space is warm, welcoming, and functional for visitors, professional organizers recommend tackling key areas before the festivities begin. By decluttering strategically, you’ll not only create a more inviting atmosphere but also make life easier for both you and your guests.

Here are six things organizing experts say you should declutter before Christmas guests arrive—along with tips to help you get started.

1. Entryway Essentials

The entryway is the first impression your guests will have of your home—and it’s often a magnet for clutter like shoes, coats, bags, and mail. A chaotic entryway can set a stressful tone right from the start.

Why It Matters:

  • First Impressions Count: A tidy entryway makes guests feel welcomed and sets the stage for the rest of the house.
  • Functionality: Clearing this space ensures there’s room for coats, boots, and gifts.

How to Declutter:

  • Remove any out-of-season items (like summer sandals or beach bags).
  • Store everyday shoes in closets or bins to keep floors clear.
  • Set up a designated spot for guest belongings, such as a coat rack, basket for shoes, or tray for keys.

When I cleared my entryway bench of random clutter and added a festive wreath, it instantly felt more inviting—and my guests knew exactly where to put their things.

2. Guest Bedroom or Sleeping Area

If you’re hosting overnight guests, their sleeping area should be a peaceful retreat—not a catch-all for storage. A cluttered guest room can make visitors feel like an afterthought.

Why It Matters:

  • Comfort: Your guests deserve a clean, organized space to relax and recharge.
  • Hospitality: A tidy room shows you’ve prepared thoughtfully for their stay.

How to Declutter:

  • Clear off surfaces like nightstands and dressers.
  • Store personal items that don’t belong in the room (e.g., clothes, paperwork).
  • Provide essentials like fresh linens, extra blankets, and a luggage rack or folding chair.

I once stayed in a guest room so cluttered I had nowhere to unpack. Afterward, I vowed never to do that to my own guests—and now I always prep the space ahead of time.

3. Kitchen Counters

The kitchen is often the heart of holiday gatherings, but overcrowded counters can make meal prep stressful and leave no room for snacks or drinks during parties.

Why It Matters:

  • Efficiency: Clear counters allow you to cook and entertain without obstacles.
  • Aesthetics: A streamlined kitchen looks cleaner and more inviting.

How to Declutter:

  • Relocate small appliances you won’t use daily (like blenders or toasters) to cabinets.
  • Toss expired pantry items and consolidate duplicates.
  • Keep only frequently used items visible, like a coffee maker or utensil jar.

After I decluttered my counters, I noticed how much easier it was to bake cookies—and my guests loved having space to set down plates and mugs.

4. Living Room Surfaces

Coffee tables, side tables, and shelves in the living room tend to collect magazines, remotes, and miscellaneous knick-knacks. These piles can make the space feel cramped and chaotic.

Why It Matters:

  • Flow: Clear surfaces improve traffic flow and make the room feel larger.
  • Relaxation: A tidy living area encourages conversation and relaxation.

How to Declutter:

  • Edit decorative objects, keeping only those that add value or meaning.
  • Corral remotes, chargers, and other small items in a drawer or basket.
  • Add a festive touch, like a bowl of ornaments or seasonal candles, to refresh the space.

When I removed a stack of old magazines and replaced them with a simple centerpiece, the entire room felt lighter and brighter.

5. Bathroom Essentials

Bathrooms see heavy use during holiday visits, and clutter here can quickly become overwhelming. Overflowing toiletries, towels, and products on the counter aren’t just unsightly—they can also inconvenience guests.

Why It Matters:

  • Privacy: Guests may feel uncomfortable if they see your personal items scattered around.
  • Convenience: A clutter-free bathroom is easier to navigate and maintain.

How to Declutter:

  • Stash personal toiletries under the sink or in a linen closet.
  • Stock up on guest supplies like hand soap, lotion, and spare toothbrushes.
  • Clear off countertops except for necessities like tissue boxes or decorative accents.

I learned this lesson when a guest accidentally knocked over my hair tools while washing their hands. Now, I tuck everything away and leave only a scented candle and fresh towels out.

6. Dining Table and Buffet Areas

The dining table is central to holiday meals, yet it often becomes a dumping ground for mail, decorations, or leftover party supplies. A cluttered table can disrupt the flow of serving and enjoying food.

Why It Matters:

  • Purpose: The dining table should serve its primary function—eating and gathering.
  • Ambiance: A clean table creates a polished, intentional look for meals.

How to Declutter:

  • Remove non-dining items like paperwork, crafts, or excess decor.
  • Use vertical space (like sideboards or buffets) to store serving dishes and utensils.
  • Add a centerpiece that complements your theme, such as greenery, candles, or seasonal fruits.

Last year, I realized too late that my dining table was buried under clutter. This year, I cleared it early and decorated with a simple garland—it made all the difference!

Final Thoughts

Decluttering before Christmas guests arrive doesn’t mean achieving perfection—it’s about creating a functional, welcoming environment that works for everyone. By focusing on these six key areas, you’ll reduce stress, enhance your home’s flow, and show your guests how much you care about their comfort.

As someone who’s hosted many holiday gatherings, I can attest that a little decluttering goes a long way. Not only does it make hosting smoother, but it also allows you to fully enjoy the season without feeling overwhelmed. So roll up your sleeves, tackle these hotspots, and prepare to celebrate in style! 🎄✨