Compiled by the editorial desk with reference to interviews with professional organizer Liora Seltzer and interior designer Carolyn Cerminara.

The holiday season may officially end on December 25, but the question of when to pack away the tinsel and tree lights remains a personal—and often debated—decision. Interior designers and professional organizers say there is no one-size-fits-all answer, but they offer a range of timelines based on tradition, personal joy, and practical considerations.

For some, the urge to reclaim living space hits almost immediately after the gifts are opened. Professional organizer Liora Seltzer, owner of What U Keep, suggests that the right time to dismantle the festive display is when it stops bringing happiness. “Holiday decorations and home decor are meant to bring us joy,” she explains. For her, that could mean a few days, a week, or even a month, depending on the household.

Interior designer Carolyn Cerminara, founder of Cerminara Design, observes that many of her clients prefer to take everything down on January 1st. “I have clients who prefer to take them down on the 1st of the year, symbolically welcoming a fresh start,” she says. This timing offers a clean slate for the New Year, aligning with a common desire to start the year with order and clarity.

Tradition and Extended Celebrations

For those who lean toward a more traditional approach, January 6th is a meaningful date. Cerminara recommends waiting until then, as it allows for a longer holiday spirit, especially for those who celebrate post-Christmas holidays. January 6th is known as Epiphany, Twelfth Night, and Little Christmas in various Christian traditions, and it is also the date when many Eastern Orthodox Christians celebrate Christmas.

Yet, there is no hard rule that forces an early teardown. Seltzer encourages keeping decorations up as long as they continue to bring joy, even if that extends into February. “When you get to the point where looking at the decorations makes you more anxious than joyful, you know it’s time,” she says.

The same flexibility applies to putting decorations up. Seltzer notes that many families wait until December 1st or later, while Cerminara, as a designer, typically advises setting up right after Thanksgiving. “Usually allowing for four Sundays to truly enjoy the ambiance before Christmas,” she adds.

Making the Teardown Easier

Once the decision is made, the process of taking down and storing decorations can be daunting. Seltzer suggests enlisting help—whether from a friend, family member, or professional—to make the task less painful and more organized. Turning it into a social event, perhaps with warm beverages and leftover cookies, can also ease the chore.

Decluttering is another key step. Seltzer recommends discarding items that are broken, no longer match your style, or that you’re simply ready to part with. This not only frees up storage space but ensures that next year’s unpacking reveals only beloved pieces.

Finally, labeling storage boxes is a simple yet effective tip. A label maker can help you quickly locate specific items next season and provide an inventory when moving or packing. With these strategies, the post-holiday cleanup can be a smooth transition back to everyday life.