With October starting this week, now is such a good time to start preparing your home for the holiday season. The next couple of months can fill up quickly, and getting a few things done ahead of time can make the season feel calmer and more enjoyable. From clearing out clutter and deep cleaning to refreshing guest spaces and getting your home ready for entertaining, a little preparation now can help create a home that feels warm, welcoming, and ready for all the gatherings and cozy moments to come.

You don’t have to do everything at once. Use October to do a little something each day, and by the time the holidays arrive, your home will already feel warm, welcoming, and ready for the season.

What To Tackle Before the Holidays

Declutter before the holiday decor comes out: closets, entryways, kitchen counters, kids’ spaces, and anything that tends to collect stuff.

Deep clean the spaces guests will see most: entryway, coat closet, living room, kitchen, powder bath, and guest room.

Take inventory of holiday decor: check lights, replace broken pieces, donate decor you no longer love, and see what you actually need before buying more.

Get the guest room ready: fresh bedding, extra blankets, towels, hangers, chargers, and a place for luggage.

Make small home repairs now: touch-up paint, loose handles, burnt-out bulbs, squeaky doors, damaged caulk, etc.

Prep the kitchen for entertaining: clean out the pantry and refrigerator, organize serving pieces, check glassware and linens.

Think through furniture and entertaining spaces: make sure there’s enough seating and that the layout works for gatherings.

Clean and organize the entryway: create room for coats, shoes, bags, and incoming guests.

Schedule the things that are harder to book later: carpet cleaning, house cleaning, handyman projects, chimney/fireplace service, window cleaning, landscaping.

Start stocking the little things: candles, guest toiletries, paper goods, batteries, hostess supplies, wrapping basics.

Create a simple holiday home plan: decide where the tree will go, what rooms you actually want to decorate, and where you’ll entertain.

Do a quick exterior refresh: clean the porch, pressure wash if needed, trim landscaping, clean outdoor furniture, and make the entrance feel welcoming.

A little preparation now can make the holiday season feel so much easier once it arrives. Taking the time to get your home ready in October means more time to enjoy the gatherings, traditions, and cozy moments that make the season so special.