15 Things to Declutter in December to Simplify Your Home

As the year winds down and we prepare for the new one, it’s the perfect time to declutter and simplify your space. A tidy home not only looks better but can also help reduce stress and create a more peaceful environment. While it may seem daunting, decluttering doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Some tasks can be done quickly, while others might take a bit more time, but the result will be a more organized, streamlined home that’s easier to manage. Here are 15 things to declutter this December to start the new year fresh!

1. Old Holiday Decorations

Take a look at your holiday decorations from past years. Are there any broken ornaments, worn-out lights, or items you no longer love? Donate or recycle what you don't need and keep only the things that bring you joy.

2. Expired Food in the Pantry

Check your pantry for expired or nearly expired food. It’s a quick way to make space for new items and ensure you’re not hanging on to things you won’t use.

3. Unused Kitchen Gadgets

Do you have kitchen gadgets collecting dust that you never use? Whether it’s a popcorn maker or an old blender, now is the time to let go of items that don’t serve you.

4. Towels and Linens You Don’t Use

Sort through your towels, bed linens, and other cloth items. If you have extras that are old or you never use, donate or repurpose them for cleaning rags.

5. Clothes You Haven’t Worn in a Year

Go through your closet and pull out clothes you haven’t worn in the past year. Donate items in good condition, and recycle those that are beyond repair.

6. Unnecessary Paperwork

Old bills, receipts, and documents can pile up quickly. Shred or recycle paperwork you no longer need, and organize what’s left in a way that’s easy to access when necessary.

7. Expired Medications

Check your medicine cabinet for expired medications and dispose of them properly. This will free up space and ensure you only have the items you need on hand.

8. Toys and Games Your Kids No Longer Play With

Take a look at your kids’ toy collection. Donate or sell toys and games that have been outgrown. You’ll create more space and make room for new gifts they’ll actually enjoy!

9. Unused Electronics

Got a drawer full of old phones, cables, or electronics you don’t use? Gather them up and recycle them at an electronics recycling center to free up space and avoid clutter.

10. Books You’ll Never Read Again

If your bookshelves are overflowing, go through your collection and donate any books you won’t read again. You can also swap them with friends or donate them to your local library.

11. Outdated Beauty Products

Sort through your beauty products and throw away anything that’s expired or you haven’t used in months. This includes makeup, lotions, and fragrances that are past their prime.

12. Old Calendars and Greeting Cards

Keep a few sentimental cards, but get rid of old holiday cards, outdated calendars, and birthday cards you’re holding onto for no reason.

13. Shoes You Never Wear

Sort through your shoe collection and let go of any shoes that are worn out or that you never wear. Donate gently used shoes that are in good condition.

14. Unnecessary Knick-Knacks

If your home is filled with knick-knacks you don’t truly love or need, it’s time to clear them out. Keep only those that hold sentimental value or serve a purpose in your decor.

15. Old, Unused Furniture

If you have furniture pieces that are taking up space without being used, consider donating or selling them. Freeing up space will make your home feel bigger and less cluttered.

Decluttering your home doesn’t have to be a huge task. Start small, and tackle one or two of these areas at a time. The holidays are a busy season, so don’t feel the need to do it all at once. By the end of the month, you’ll have a more organized and simplified home, and you’ll be able to start the new year with a fresh perspective.

Here’s to a clutter-free home and a peaceful start to 2025!