Clean up the Christmas mess
A three-week guide to help you unclutter and de-stress after the holidays
One week after: Begin the cleaning process.
Sort through the used gift boxes and save the ones that are salvageable. Pack away leftover boxes, bows and wrapping paper. Also return or donate any holiday presents you don't want or need; but save the best of those for regifting. Call the sanitation department in your town or county to find out when Christmas tree pickup is so you can plan when to take yours down.
Two weeks after: Put away your decorations.
Make a party of it and serve drinks and snacks so your family will be motivated to help. If you need sturdy boxes to store your ornaments, buy the Container Store's Archival Ornament Box (from $23, depending on size; www.containerstore.com).
Three weeks after: Start on next year.
Add new friends to your Christmas card list. Go through all the cards you received this year and make sure the names and addresses on your permanent list are up-to-date. Hit the final after-Christmas sales and replenish your supply of cards and gift wrap for next season.
Bonus tips
Use these everyday items to help you store away your decorations!
Food containers
Loop delicate or extra-large Christmas lights into a circle and store them in small plastic containers. They're easy-to-stack and sturdy, so the bulbs won't get broken.
Fabric softener sheets
Dust each ornament with a used sheet. Then flip the sheet over and wrap the ornament in it to keep dust away while it's in storage.
Pillowcases
Cover artificial wreaths and dried-flower arrangements in bubble wrap, then store them in old pillowcases.
Share your secrets on how you clean up after the holidays.