The 7-Day Spruce-Up: Get Ready for the Holidays 

  The Spruce | Home Design Ideas and How TosRead More

Welcome to the 7-Day Spruce-Up: Get Ready for the Holidays!

Whether you’re hosting for the first time or you’ve done it for years, holiday planning can get overwhelming, especially when the to-do lists start to build up.

We’re sharing the ultimate guide for spreading holiday cheer with easy cleaning tricks for pre- and post-holiday parties, designer-approved decorating tips, and holiday trends you’ll love to get your home holiday-ready.

Day 1: Start Organizing

Before getting started on your to-do list, ensure you have an organized space so you have peace of mind throughout it all, especially before the chaos ensues. Declutter high-traffic areas like the entryway and kitchen before guests come over, and stock up on items like shoe racks for easy organization.

Day 2: Make a Clean Slate

Once your spaces are streamlined and everything has a designated place, it’s time to start cleaning. Tackle different rooms, especially the areas you may often overlook, like kitchen countertops or the guest bathroom. With these cleaning pro tips, you’ll have a sparkling home in no time.

Day 3: Deck the Halls

It’s time for the fun part: deck the halls. Bring out the lights, ornaments, and any other classic decor you love that will ring in the holiday magic. If you’re not sure where to start, gain some inspiration from our favorite holiday decorating trends and get some designer tips for creating a festive space.

Day 4: Get Gifting

Gifting can be one of the most rewarding parts of the holidays, but it can also be one of the most challenging. Get a head start on gifts with our best roundups on gift baskets and gifts for the whole family, so you don’t get stuck with last-minute shopping.

Day 5: Gear Up for Guests

When it comes to hosting guests, you want to ensure they enjoy their stay. Create a comfortable experience for them by prepping their room in advance or changing out some outdated decor. We’ve gathered expert tips for making holiday hosting easy and items that will elevate their overall stay.

Day 6: Prep for Parties

Holiday parties can involve a lot of moving parts: food, decorations, and gifts. We’ve broken down all the tips and tricks you need to leave a lasting impression, from setting the table to making sure your guests feel included.

Day 7: Clear Away the Aftermath

Once the holiday parties are over and the guests have gone, it’s time to clear away the aftermath. So roll up your sleeves to start cleaning, and store away all of your beloved holiday decorations—just make sure they’re packed away safely until you do it all again next year.