The January Reset Your Home Needs

The holiday season often leaves homes filled with extra items, leftover food, and packaging that can quickly clutter your space. January offers a fresh start to clear out the excess and create a more organised, calm environment. Tackling post-Christmas clutter can feel overwhelming, but with a clear plan focusing on recycling, fridge cleanouts, and smart habits like the one in, one out rule, you can reclaim your space efficiently. This guide shares practical tips to help you get started and maintain order throughout the year.

Start with Recycling: Sort and Reduce Waste

After Christmas, many households face a mountain of wrapping paper, boxes, and packaging, meaning it might take a few weeks to get the bins back to normal. Sorting through this waste properly is the first step to decluttering.

• Flatten boxes: Breaking down boxes saves space and makes recycling easier.

• Reuse gift wrap and bags: If wrapping paper is in good condition, save it for next year or use gift bags again.

  
  

By sorting your recycling early, you reduce clutter and help the environment. It also makes the next steps of decluttering smoother.

Clean Out the Fridge: Fresh Start for Food Storage

The fridge often becomes a catch-all during the holidays, stuffed with leftovers, opened condiments, and forgotten items (ham anyone?). A thorough cleanout helps prevent food waste and frees up space for new groceries.

• Check expiration dates: Toss anything expired or spoiled. Leftovers older than 3-4 days should be discarded.

• Group similar items: Keep dairy, condiments, and vegetables in separate zones to find things easily.

• Use clear containers: Store leftovers in transparent containers to quickly see what you have.

• Plan meals around leftovers: This reduces waste and helps clear the fridge faster. Try the meal planner to make it easier.

  
  

A clean fridge not only looks better but also helps you eat healthier by keeping food fresh and visible.

Find a Place for New Items: Avoid Clutter Creep

Christmas gifts and new purchases can quickly overwhelm your storage spaces. Finding a dedicated spot for each new item prevents clutter from spreading.

• Declutter before adding: For every new item, consider if something old can be donated or discarded.

• Use storage solutions: Bins, shelves, and drawer dividers help keep things tidy.

• Label storage areas: Clear labels make it easier to put things away and find them later.

• Create a toy rotation system: For kids’ toys or seasonal items, rotate what’s accessible to avoid overcrowding.

  
  

By consciously placing new items, you maintain order and make your home feel more spacious.

Use the One In, One Out Rule to Maintain Balance

The one in, one out rule is a simple but powerful habit to keep clutter under control. For every new item brought into your home, one old item should leave.

• Apply it to clothes: When you buy a new shirt or jacket, donate or recycle an old one.

• Use it for kitchenware: Replace broken or unused utensils with new ones.

• Practice with toys and books: Pass on items your family no longer uses before adding new ones.

• Set reminders: Regularly review your belongings to keep the balance.

• Make it a family habit: Encourage everyone in the household to follow the rule.

  
  

This approach helps prevent accumulation and keeps your space manageable throughout the year.

Practical Tips to Stay Decluttered After January

Decluttering after Christmas is just the start. Maintaining a tidy home requires ongoing effort.

• Schedule monthly mini declutters: Spend 15-20 minutes each month tidying a specific area.

• Keep recycling accessible: Make it easy to sort and dispose of recyclables regularly.

• Review your fridge weekly: Toss expired items and plan meals to use leftovers.

• Limit impulse purchases: Think carefully before buying new things.

• Celebrate progress: Notice how a clutter-free space improves your mood and daily life.

  
  

Small, consistent actions make a big difference over time.