Holiday Decluttering: How Renters Can Refresh Their Space for the Season

Here’s a renter-friendly guide to help you declutter your space without spending much—and without risking your security deposit.

The holiday season brings joy, celebration, and obviously, a bit of chaos. Between visitors, shopping, gifts, and seasonal décor, it’s easy for clutter to sneak into your rental. Whether you’re preparing for guests or simply wanting a fresh start for the new year, decluttering before the holidays can make your home feel brighter, more open, and stress-free.

1. Start With the “Holiday Hotspots”

Focus on the spaces that fill up the fastest like entryways, living rooms, and kitchens. Clear off surfaces, put away items you are not using, and make room before bringing out holiday décor.

2. Do a Quick Pre-Season Purge

Before holiday shopping begins, take a quick walk through your apartment and set aside items you no longer use. Donating clothes, extra kitchen items, or unused décor helps create space for new purchases.

3. Create a Gift Wrapping Station

Keep gift wrap, ribbon, and supplies in one organized spot. A tote or small drawer system makes wrapping easier and keeps clutter from spreading throughout your living space.

4. Use Vertical Storage and off site storage

Maximize space with shelves, hooks, and hanging organizers. If storage is still tight, a self storage unit can be a great solution for seasonal décor or bulky items. Sand Springs Self Storage offers a convenient option to store holiday items now and keep them organized for next year.

5. prep your kitchen & guest spaces

Clear pantry items, unused gadgets, and extra clutter before holiday cooking begins. If you are hosting guests, tidy shared areas and bathrooms to keep everything feeling clean and welcoming.

6. Shop Smart and Store for Next Year

Be intentional with holiday purchases and store decorations neatly in labeled bins once the season ends. Staying organized now makes decorating easier next year and keeps clutter under control.

Decluttering before the holidays helps create a space that feels comfortable, festive, and stress free so you can fully enjoy the season.