15 Minutes a Day to a Holiday-Ready Home
The holidays are coming—fast. And while the season brings joy, it can also bring chaos. Between gift wrapping, decorating, hosting and the usual day-to-day, it’s easy for clutter to pile up.
But here’s the good news: you don’t need a full weekend marathon to get your home in shape. With this simple 15 Minutes a Day to a Holiday Ready Home Challenge, you’ll be able to prep your home, one small space at a time, without feeling overwhelmed.
If you’re ready to enjoy the holidays in a calm, organized home—let’s dive in!
Why 15 Minutes Counts
Fifteen minutes might not sound like much, but it’s plenty when you focus intentionally. It’s long enough to make visible progress, yet short enough to fit into even the busiest day. A little consistency goes a long way toward keeping your home looking polished and guest-ready.
Why It Works
Small chunks- 15 minutes feels doable even on a busy day.
Focused space- A little progress in the right spot has a big payoff.
Builds habit- As you tick off days, it becomes a rhythm rather than a scramble.
Holiday peace- Instead of deep panic the week before guests arrive, you’ll already be ahead.
Your 10-Day Holiday Declutter Challenge
Here’s a 10 day plan to get you started. Each day set a timer for 15 minutes and commit to the space/task below. Don’t worry about spaces your guests won’t see. This isn’t a total home challenge right now. Focus on those areas that your guests will be spending time in to make the most of your time. You’ll be amazed at how refreshed your home feels by the end of this challenge.
Day 1 – Entryway & Drop Zone
Clear shoes, coats, bags and stray mail. Add a basket for incoming packages and a spot for “outgoing” returns. Got kids? Make sure those packages that are meant for them are hidden ASAP. Bonus: Create a donation box for all those items that no longer fit.
Day 2 – Kitchen Counters
Put away small appliances you aren’t using daily, wipe surfaces, and clear space for holiday meal prep. Kitchen counters are not the space for excessive seasonal decor, especially if you are hosting. Take the time now to relocate anything unnecessary to storage. If you need to have a little holiday cheer try using an open shelf or a movable tray for a little display.
Day 3 – Refrigerator Reset
The fridge works overtime this time of year. Whether you are hosting or traveling, baking or cooking, the extra ingredients and platters take up all of your space. Start by tossing expired condiments and leftovers. Zone your refrigerator if it isn’t already. Don’t overthink it. Just put like items together. Are you a lucky person with a second fridge in the garage or basement? Plan what items will be stored where now so there isn’t last minute shuffling as guests arrive.
Day 4 – Gift-Wrapping Station Setup
Gather all your wrapping paper, ribbon, tags, and tape into one bin or tote so you’re ready to go! Bonus: Check out this blog post for some of favorite gift wrap organizing products and ideas.
Day 5 – Guest Bathroom Blitz
Clear vanity surface of old products and empty bottles. Restock the essentials like hand soap, fresh towels and toilet paper keeping some within extra reach. Place some trial size must haves in a cute little basket in case your guests forget anything- mouthwash, floss, hairspray. Finish it off by adding a little seasonal touch like a candle or mini wreath. Guests will love the thoughtfulness.
Day 6 – Living Room Refresh
Remove excess décor, old magazines and anything that’s dropped on surfaces so you’re ready for guests and cozy nights in. Make space for appetizer trays and guests to place a plate of food down. Make sure your seating is angled for conversations. Add coasters to each table if you want them used. We tend to break out the games after dinner. Have a few ready to go if that’s your jam.
Day 7 – Kids’ Toys & Games
Maje space now before new gifts come in. Have the kiddos pick items to donate, box up a few sets and rotate toys if you can. Bonus: Check out this oldie but goodie blog post about what to do with all the toys!
Day 8 – Dining Table & Buffet Area
Start by clearing any excess clutter to make room for meals and gatherings. Take stock of what you may need like extra salt and pepper shakers, gravy boats or even silverware. Plan where your dishes and trays will go- is your meal bing passed around the table or more of a buffet style? Add a festive centerpiece to complete the look.
Day 9 – Hall Closet or Coat Rack
Make space for guests’ coats and boots. Add hangers and a mat or basket for muddy footwear. If you are a no shoe house make sure there is a chair or bench by the door for people to comfortably remove shoes.
Day 10 – Bedroom Calm Zone
This doesnt have anything to do with preparing your home for the holidays, But it does prepare you. Tidy the nightstand, put away laundry, refresh bedding—because a calm bedroom supports a calm you.
Extra Touches to Keep the Momentum
Download our printable tracker—check off each day and feel the win!
Reward yourself: maybe after Day 5 you enjoy a peppermint mocha or a cozy Netflix binge.
Share your progress on social (tag Salera Home Solutions) and we’ll cheer you on!
Ready to start? Set your timer for 15 minutes now and begin Day 1! Check our pages each day and get some more tips and tricks about that days task, see what other people are up to and get inspired to have the best holiday season ever!
And if you’d like help making it happen let us know—Salera Home Solutions offers holiday-prep organizing services that can take the load off your shoulders. Reach out today for your free consultation and let’s get your home holiday-ready together.
Let’s make this season joyful and calm.
Thanks for being here. If you complete the full 10-day challenge, share your before & after shots with us—we’d love to celebrate your wins with the Salera Home Solutions community!