Before you reach for the tinsel and baubles for this year, it’s worth taking a moment to get organised.
Sorting through your Christmas decorations can make the festive season feel calmer, brighter, and more meaningful, and it’s the perfect chance to help others enjoy the magic of Christmas, too.
Start with a Festive Decoration Declutter
If you’re like most of us, you probably have boxes of Christmas decorations that haven’t seen the light of day in years. Begin by unpacking everything and spreading it out. Check for:
Broken items, cracked baubles, frayed ribbons, or ornaments missing hooks.
Duplicates or unused décor, that fourth gold garland might be more useful elsewhere!
Old or outdated styles, if they no longer fit your theme, it might be time to pass them on.
Keep what truly makes you smile, repair what can be salvaged, and set aside the rest for donation or recycling.
Check the Lights Before Hanging
Nothing spoils the decorating mood faster than discovering half a string of fairy lights won’t turn on! Before you start dressing the tree or outlining your windows:
Untangle and inspect each light string for damage, exposed wires, or missing bulbs.
Plug them in and test, ideally before you drape them across the tree.
Upgrade if needed, modern LED lights use less energy, are safer, and come in lovely warm tones that mimic candlelight.
If your lights no longer work, check your local recycling centre. Many now accept old electricals for proper disposal.
Donate Spare Decorations to Charity Shops
Charity shops love receiving festive donations early in the season. Gently used decorations, wreaths, and even tree toppers can bring joy to families who might not otherwise be able to afford new ones. It’s also an eco-friendly choice, reusing and recycling rather than adding to landfill.
If you’re dropping items off, consider:
Boxing ornaments carefully to prevent damage.
Adding a note or tag if an item has sentimental or vintage charm, it can help it stand out on the shelf.
Supporting local charities, many smaller community shops rely on Christmas sales to fund vital services.
Perhaps you have some unused Christmas cards that are spare? Or a Christmas recipe book that you don't need?
Enjoy a Simpler, Kinder Christmas
Decluttering your decorations isn’t just about tidiness, it’s about creating space for new memories. By checking your lights and sharing your surplus, you’re spreading a little extra goodwill and ensuring your home shines brightly, inside and out.
After all, Christmas isn’t just about what’s on the tree, it’s about the warmth we share with others.
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