The Ultimate Post-Holiday Cleanup Guide

Hey Friends! As the holidays come to a close and we launch ourselves into 2025, we’re covering your Ultimate Post-Holiday Cleanup Guide. Learn how to restore order, peace and shine after the busy holiday season. 

The holidays bring joy, laughter, and unforgettable memories, but they also leave behind a trail of clutter, spills, and disarray. From glittery ornaments to endless dishes, post-holiday cleanup can feel like an overwhelming task. Don’t Worry! With the right plan and a touch of strategy, you can transform your home back into its sparkling sanctuary in no time. Here’s your ultimate guide to tackling the post-holiday chaos.

Step 1: Take Inventory and Declutter

Before diving into the cleanup, take stock of the holiday aftermath. This includes decorations, leftover wrapping paper, and even the new gifts. Here’s how to approach it:

1. 1. Sort Decorations:
      • Carefully pack ornaments, lights, and other décor in sturdy, labeled containers.
      • Wrap fragile items in tissue paper or bubble wrap to avoid damage.
      • Use zip ties or twist ties to bundle string lights to prevent tangling.
   2. Purge Unnecessary Items:
      • Donate or recycle decorations you no longer use.
      • Discard any broken items or non-recyclable wrapping paper.
      • If you’ve received duplicate or unwanted gifts, consider donating them.
   3. Recycle Responsibly:
      • Check local recycling guidelines for wrapping paper, cardboard boxes, and other holiday materials.
      • Separate recyclable materials from trash to keep things eco-friendly.

Step 2: Focus on the Kitchen

The kitchen often bears the brunt of holiday celebrations, from elaborate meals to endless snacking. A deep clean can restore its pre-holiday glory:

1. 1. Clear Out Leftovers:
      • Inspect your fridge and toss expired or questionable leftovers.
      • Wipe down shelves and drawers with a mixture of warm water and baking soda to eliminate odors.
   2. Tackle the Dishes:
      • Soak stubborn pans and dishes in hot, soapy water with a bit of vinegar to loosen grime.
      • Run your dishwasher with a cleaner to refresh it after heavy use.
   3. Clean Surfaces and Appliances:
      • Wipe down countertops, stovetops, and backsplashes with a multipurpose cleaner.
      • Degrease and Deep Clean the Oven:
        • Remove oven racks and soak them in warm, soapy water.
        • Create a baking soda paste (mix baking soda with water) and spread it over the interior surfaces of your oven. Allow it to sit for a few hours or overnight to loosen grime.
        • Wipe away the paste with a damp cloth. For stubborn spots, spritz with vinegar and let the fizzing action work its magic before wiping again.
        • Clean the oven door and handles for a complete refresh.
   4. Floor Attention:
      • Sweep and mop floors to remove crumbs, spills, and sticky residues.
      • Don’t forget to clean under appliances where debris might have collected.

Step 3: Refresh Living Spaces

Your living room likely served as the hub for festive gatherings. Restore order by tackling key areas:

1. 1. Remove and Pack Decorations:
      • Take down the tree and vacuum thoroughly to pick up pine needles or artificial debris.
      • Ensure all décor is packed neatly for easy retrieval next year.
   2. Deep Clean Upholstery:
      • Vacuum couches and chairs to remove crumbs and dust.
      • Spot-clean fabric or leather as needed to tackle stains.
   3. Dust and Shine:
      • Dust surfaces, including shelves, coffee tables, and electronics.
      • Use a glass cleaner to polish mirrors and windows for a streak-free finish.
   4. Carpet Revival:
      • If guests tracked in dirt, consider shampooing carpets or using a stain remover.
      • Sprinkle baking soda before vacuuming to freshen up odors.

Step 4: Reclaim Bedrooms

Guest bedrooms, in particular, may need extra love after hosting visitors. Follow these tips:

1. 1. Launder Linens:
      • Wash all bedding, including sheets, pillowcases, and comforters.
      • Vacuum mattresses and consider flipping or rotating them for even wear.
   2. Declutter Nightstands:
      • Clear out any holiday-themed items or leftover water glasses.
      • Wipe down surfaces with a gentle cleaner.
   3. Organize Closets:
      • Use this opportunity to pack away holiday outfits and make room for new clothing.
      • Donate any clothes or accessories you no longer need.

Step 5: Reset the Bathrooms

Whether your bathrooms were used by guests or endured the holiday rush, they’ll benefit from a thorough refresh:

1. 1. Sanitize Fixtures:
      • Scrub sinks, countertops, and toilets with a disinfectant cleaner.
      • Pay extra attention to high-touch areas like faucet handles and light switches.
   2. Shower and Tub TLC:
      • Use a tile cleaner to tackle soap scum and mildew.
      • Polish glass doors or wipe down shower curtains to remove buildup.
   3. Stock Essentials:
      • Replenish toilet paper, hand soap, and clean towels.
      • Add a subtle air freshener or essential oil diffuser for a finishing touch.

Step 6: Handle the Outdoors

If your holiday extended to exterior decorations, don’t forget to tidy up your outdoor spaces:

1. 1. Take Down Outdoor Décor:
      • Carefully remove lights, wreaths, and inflatables, checking for damage as you go.
      • Coil and store extension cords for future use.
   2. Check Pathways:
      • Sweep or shovel walkways and porches, especially if winter weather has left them icy or messy.
   3. Dispose of the Tree:
      • If you had a real tree, check your local area for tree recycling or pickup options.

Step 7: Stay Ahead of Next Year’s Chaos

Use this opportunity to set yourself up for a smoother holiday season next year:

1. 1. Label Storage Containers:
      • Clearly mark bins for ornaments, lights, and other décor for easy access.
      • Store items in a designated area to avoid the dreaded “lost box” scenario.
   2. Create a Cleaning Schedule:
      • Jot down tasks you’d like to tackle monthly or quarterly throughout the year.
      • Staying on top of cleaning will make the next holiday season less daunting.
   3. Stock Up on Supplies:
      • Restock cleaning essentials like microfiber cloths, disinfectants, and vacuum bags.
      • Consider adding a few new storage solutions to keep your home tidy year-round.

When You Need a Helping Hand

The post-holiday cleanup can be a daunting task, especially if you’re balancing work, family, and other responsibilities. That’s where Maid For You comes in! We specialize in turning post-holiday chaos into sparkling order. From deep cleaning kitchens (yes, including ovens!) to tackling the tiniest dust bunnies, we’re here to restore your home’s shine and make your life easier.

Conclusion

Cleaning up after the holidays doesn’t have to be stressful. By following this step-by-step guide, you can systematically tackle the mess and reclaim your space. Whether you handle the job solo or call in the professionals at Maid For You, the key is to start small, stay organized, and celebrate your progress. After all, your home deserves as much love and care as you poured into the holiday season itself.

Here’s to a clean, cozy, and stress-free start to the new year!

Lisa