The holidays have come and gone, and now it’s time for one of the least glamorous parts of the season: taking down the decorations. If you’re anything like me, it’s a mix of relief and melancholy—relief to get the house back to normal but a little sadness to say goodbye to the sparkle. As you pack things away, let’s make the process more thoughtful and maybe even a little refreshing.

1. Start with a Game Plan

Before you grab the bins and start shoving things in, take a moment to assess. Are there specific areas you want to tackle first? Maybe you start with the tree, or perhaps the outdoor lights need to come down before the next snowstorm. Having a plan makes the process feel less overwhelming.

2. Did You Use Everything?

As you pack decorations away, take a critical look at each item. Did it make it out of the box this year? If not, ask yourself why. Maybe it doesn’t match your style anymore, or perhaps you simply have too much. Set aside unused items for donation. Someone else might love that wreath you’ve outgrown.

3. Is It Still in Good Shape?

Now’s the time to inspect everything. Are there broken ornaments, tangled lights that don’t work, or garlands shedding more than your dog? If it’s beyond repair, let it go. If it’s salvageable, fix it before you pack it away—you’ll thank yourself next year.

4. Organize as You Go

Instead of tossing everything into random boxes, take a few extra minutes to organize. Group similar items together—ornaments in one bin, lights in another. Label everything clearly so you’re not playing a guessing game next year. And if you don’t already have sturdy storage containers, now’s a great time to invest in some.

5. Take Stock for Next Year

As you pack up, make a mental note of what you’re missing or what could be replaced. Did you wish you had more outdoor lights? Was the tree skirt looking a little worse for wear? Write it down or snap a quick photo to remind yourself when the holiday sales roll around.

6. Reflect on What Brings Joy

Holiday decorations are meant to make your home feel special, so as you’re putting things away, think about what really brought you joy this year. For me, I have these extremely old birds my parents had when I was growing up. They are so beautiful and I love looking at them so I put them on the small Christmas trees I place in different areas of the house. Maybe for you, it’s the heirloom ornaments or the simple string of lights around your front door. Keep those things front and center for next year, and don’t feel obligated to keep items that no longer feel meaningful.

7. Enjoy the Clean Slate

Once the decorations are down and the house is back to normal, take a moment to appreciate the fresh start. Maybe rearrange a piece of furniture or try a new arrangement on your mantle. The simplicity of a post-holiday home can feel just as satisfying as the festive decor did.

Taking down holiday decorations doesn’t have to be a chore. With a little mindfulness, it can be an opportunity to declutter, reflect, and get ready for whatever the new year holds. So put on some music, pour yourself a cup of tea, and tackle it one step at a time.