Get a head start on holiday prep by getting rid of these items before the winter season.

Decluttering before winter sets in has its advantages.

For one, youll be able toenjoy the holiday seasonwith less clutter and chaos.

Close up view of a coat closet with winter accessories organized on the back of the door

Credit:Erik Johnson

Finding the room for gifts youll receive will be easier, as will hosting guests forholiday dinnersand parties.

If you get started now, you’ll be ready for the holiday season with a sense of calm.

As a professional organizer, these are the areas I recommenddecluttering and organizingbefore the winter season.

Close up view of the interior of an armoire with nicely folded sheet sets and towels

Credit:Bill Holt

Plus, learn more about the organizations that will accept your no-longer-needed items, so nothing goes to waste.

Erik Johnson

1.

Check wool items like hats and scarves for holes or tears and match up mittens and gloves.

Close up view of a bathroom medicine cabinet with organized products in jars, cups and shelves

Credit:Cameron Sadeghpour

Bill Holt

2.

Cameron Sadeghpour

3.

Prep for any sickness that might plague your household this season by heading tothe medicine cabinetand checking expiration dates.

makeup storage compartment open mirror top

Credit: Jay Wilde

Makeup and Beauty Products

While youre in the bathroom, take the opportunity to declutteryour makeupas well.

Like medicine, beauty items also expirealthough the evidence is not always as clear-cut.

If youre unsure, simply observe the smell or shade and discard anything that seems off or is questionable.

Butler’s pantry with storage containers and dry goods

Credit:Astrid Templier / Interior Designer: Maddalena Minverva

Astrid Templier / Interior Designer: Maddalena Minverva

5.

This way, youll be ready for food-centered winter activities likedecorating Christmas cookiesorhosting a Superbowl party.

Bin up and store special items for hand-me-downs if needed.

black-and-white labeled baskets with various toys

Credit: John Bessler

Have your kids get involved with donating the rest so it instills the habits of decluttering charitable giving.

Kelsey Hansen

7.

As yourepulling out or putting awayfall decor, set aside items to get rid of.

A person putting Christmas ornaments into a divided storage box

Credit:Kelsey Hansen

Toss anything that is broken, and donate items you no longer want to a thrift store.

Ann VanderWiel Wilde

8.

Get rid of anything ripped or used to the point youd be embarrassed to repurpose it.

gift wrap in box under bed

Credit:Ann VanderWiel Wilde