🧹 How to Declutter Before the New Year: A Room-by-Room Guide🧹

The end of the year is the perfect time to hit reset on your home. A clean, clutter-free space can help you feel more relaxed, more productive, and more ready to take on the year ahead. Whether you're downsizing what you no longer need or making room for new memoires, decluttering is one of the most impactful ways to love where you live.

At Olthof Homes, we design homes that make it easier to stay organized -- from spacious closets to flexible storage solutions. But no matter what type of home you live in, this step-by-step guide will help you reclaim your space before January 1st rolls around.

🏠 Entryway or Mudroom
Your first impression space deserves to feel calm and functional.

Clear out old shoes, coats, and bags you don’t use.
Add hooks or baskets for seasonal gear.
Donate or toss mismatched gloves and umbrellas.

🛋️ Living Room
This space should feel cozy, not crowded.

Remove old magazines, outdated decor, or extra throw blankets.
Go through books, DVDs, or games. Be sure to keep what you love and donate the rest.
Use decorative bins or ottomans with hidden storage for remotes, toys, etc.

🍽️ Kitchen & Pantry
Start fresh with clean counters and an organized pantry.

Toss expired food, duplicate utensils, and chipped dishes.
Donate extra mugs, mismatched containers, and unused small appliances.
Use clear bins or labels to group pantry items.

🛏️ Bedrooms
Make your bedroom a true retreat for rest and reflection.

Clear nightstands, under-bed storage, and overflowing drawers.
Donate clothes you haven’t worn in a year.
Rotate seasonal clothing and declutter accessories.

🚿 Bathrooms
Small changes make a big impact in this busy space.

Toss expired medicine, old makeup, and empty bottles.
Store daily items in small baskets or drawer dividers.
Keep countertops clear for a clean, spa-like feel.

🧸 Kids’ Rooms or Play Areas
Get the kids involved to encourage them to make space for new gifts.

Sort through toys, books, and clothes together.
Donate or store items they’ve outgrown.
Use labeled bins or baskets to group items by type.

🧰 Garage or Storage Areas
Tackle the hidden clutter hotspots.

Declutter one zone at a time (tools, holiday decor, sports gear).
Toss broken items or anything you haven’t used in 2+ years.
Add shelves, hooks, or pegboards for easy access.

🏡 Make Space for What Matters

Decluttering is more than organizing, it's about making room for what truly matters in the year ahead. At Olthof Homes, we build homes that support the way you live, from smart storage to flexible spaces that grow with you. Whether you're simplifying, starting fresh, or just want to enjoy your space more fully, a thoughtful home makes all the difference.