A Gentle Reset During a Busy Season
While you may be living in a bit of panic this week trying to wrap up the last days of school and all the Christmas prep, the upcoming break offers something rare: a pause. Even better, you may find a small pocket of time before Christmas arrives to clear out the old and make room for the new.
Christmas break can potentially be a chance to slow down, catch your breath, and spend time at home. Because of that, it’s the perfect moment to reset a few spaces that have been working overtime all season long. These Holiday Break Projects are not about tackling everything at once. Instead, they focus on small, manageable updates that help your home feel lighter, calmer, and ready for the new year ahead.
Refresh Your Entryway
We have talked a lot about entryways the last few weeks, but it’s because your entryway is a space you experience every day. It sets the tone as you come and go, especially during a busy season. Over the break, take time to clear out shoes, coats, and bags that no longer belong there. A simple basket or tray can help keep everyday items contained and easy to grab.
A quick clean goes a long way here. Wipe down baseboards, sweep corners, and shake out your doormat. Consider adding soft lighting or a small plant from a local nursery to bring warmth and life to the space. These small changes instantly create a more welcoming arrival home.
Organize Kitchen Hot Spots
The kitchen tends to collect clutter quickly during the holidays. Counters fill up, drawers become overstuffed, and cabinets lose their order. Instead of trying to overhaul the entire kitchen, focus on one problem area at a time.
Start with a single drawer or cabinet. Empty it completely, wipe it down, and return only what you truly use. Extras can go into a donation box or be relocated. Clear bins or organizers from a local store can add structure and make daily routines easier. Even one organized spot creates visible relief.
Thinking about a kitchen overhaul? Check out our kitchen flow chart for guidance.
Make Room for New Toys
Perhaps you have a little time before Christmas arrives to clean out the old and make room for the new. Toy clutter tends to grow quickly, especially during the holidays, and a small reset now can make Christmas morning feel calmer.
Begin by sorting through toys that are no longer used or loved. Broken items can be recycled or tossed, while gently used toys can be donated to local charities, shelters, or community organizations. Many families appreciate toys that still have life left in them, and donating creates space while teaching children the value of giving. Here’s a list of local charities we love.
You can also organize what stays. Use bins, baskets, or shelving to create simple categories. Clear labels help younger kids participate in cleanup. Starting the season with fewer toys makes it easier to enjoy new gifts without overwhelm. Looking for storage and organization options? Check out our storage blog for options, including helpful links.
Refresh Bedrooms for the New Year
Bedrooms are the spaces we return to every night, which makes them ideal for a gentle reset. Wash bedding, fluff pillows, and rotate out-of-season clothing. These simple steps can change the entire feel of the room without a major investment.
Consider swapping out bedside bulbs for softer lighting to create a calmer evening atmosphere. Clearing off nightstands and tucking away loose items also helps your mind unwind at the end of the day. Because rest matters, these small bedroom updates often have a meaningful impact.
Give Bathrooms a Quick Update
Bathrooms respond beautifully to quick, low-effort improvements. Replace worn towels, refresh your shower liner, or add a new bath mat to instantly make the space feel cleaner and more cared for.
You can also organize under the sink using clear containers or small bins. This creates order and reduces stress during busy mornings. A new soap pump or a simple decorative touch from a local boutique adds warmth without clutter.
Tackle a Closet Cleanout
Closets quietly hold onto clutter we no longer notice. The holiday break is a great time to choose one section and work through it intentionally. Pull items out, sort them, and decide what still serves you.
Donate pieces you no longer wear and consider using matching hangers or a small basket for accessories. A simplified closet makes daily routines smoother as you head into the new year.
Wrap It Up with a Fresh Start
Holiday Break Projects don’t have to be overwhelming to be effective. Choosing one room or one small task can create a sense of accomplishment and calm. When your home feels organized and peaceful, it supports your life in meaningful ways.
As the new year approaches, these gentle resets help your home feel ready for the next season ahead. Whether that season brings slow mornings, full schedules, or time spent gathering with the people you love most, a little intention now can bring lasting peace later.
Happy Organizing,
The Gals at Good to Be Home 🐝
