Holiday Prep Starts Now: 7 Things to Organize Before Thanksgiving
Get ahead of the chaos so you can focus on what really matters — food, family, and feeling at home.
If you’re someone who loves hosting, cooking, or just celebrating, you probably know this truth: the holidays sneak up fast. One day it’s pumpkins, and the next you’re Googling how long to defrost a turkey.
But here’s the good news — a little prep now can lead to a lot less stress later. You don’t need to overhaul your whole house to feel ready for Thanksgiving. You just need to focus on a few high-impact areas.
Here are 7 things to organize before Thanksgiving that will make your entire holiday season smoother, calmer, and a whole lot more enjoyable.
🧂 1. Your Pantry
Thanksgiving meals are ingredient-heavy, and you don’t want to waste time digging through expired cans of pumpkin or five-year-old cornstarch.
✔️ Toss expired or unused items
✔️ Group baking supplies, spices, and canned goods
✔️ Take inventory before you shop
✔️ Use clear bins or labeled baskets for grab-and-go cooking
💡 Bonus Tip: Create a “Holiday Cooking” bin just for Thanksgiving-specific ingredients.
🍴 2. Your Kitchen Tools and Serveware
Now’s the time to make sure your roasting pan isn’t missing, your pie dish isn’t cracked, and you have enough serving spoons to go around.
✔️ Check roasting pans, pie plates, casserole dishes
✔️ Sharpen knives
✔️ Set aside serving utensils, trivets, and oven mitts
✔️ Take out your holiday linens (wash if needed!)
💡 Pro Tip: Set aside a labeled tote or cabinet zone just for Thanksgiving tools so you can grab everything in one go.
🧊 3. Fridge & Freezer Space
You’ll need extra space for groceries and leftovers. Let’s make room.
✔️ Toss expired condiments and mystery containers
✔️ Wipe shelves and drawers
✔️ Use bins or trays to group like items
✔️ Designate a “Thanksgiving Zone” in your fridge
💡 Pro Tip: Freeze chopped onions, celery, and broth ahead of time to save prep time on the big day.
🛋️ 4. The Guest Room or Guest Space
Whether you’re hosting overnight guests or just day visitors, make your home feel warm and welcoming.
✔️ Freshen sheets, towels, and pillows
✔️ Clear out clutter (especially surfaces and closets)
✔️ Add a small basket with water, tissues, extra toiletries
✔️ Stock toilet paper and essentials in the guest bathroom
💡 Tip: Even a pull-out couch or air mattress feels special with a few thoughtful touches.
🪑 5. Dining and Entertaining Spaces
A cluttered dining table can make even the best meals feel chaotic. Now is the time to reset your entertaining zones.
✔️ Clear off your dining table
✔️ Clean chairs or add cushions if needed
✔️ Organize your bar cart or drink station
✔️ Prep or polish any holiday décor
💡 Pro Tip: Set the table the night before. It saves time and looks festive!
📑 6. Holiday Paperwork and Planning
Receipts, recipes, RSVP notes, and grocery lists… it adds up. Keep it all in one place.
✔️ Create a Thanksgiving folder (digital or paper)
✔️ Save and print favorite recipes ahead of time
✔️ Make a shopping and cooking timeline
✔️ Keep donation or delivery receipts organized
💡 Bonus: A holiday command center can help you stay on track through New Year’s.
🧺 7. Declutter Key Zones
This is your chance to do a quick refresh of high-traffic areas — not a full cleanout, just a reset.
✔️ Entryway or mudroom
✔️ Kitchen counters
✔️ Bathroom counters
✔️ Living room surfaces
✔️ Toy zones (especially if kids are visiting)
💡 Pro Tip: Create a “clutter basket” to quickly stash miscellaneous items in a pinch.
A Calm Holiday Starts with a Clear Plan
You don’t need to have everything picture-perfect — you just need a home that’s ready to serve your people and your peace of mind. By organizing a few spaces now, you’ll give yourself the breathing room to enjoy what matters most: connection, comfort, and yes — that extra slice of pie.
Need Help Getting Your Home Holiday-Ready?
If you’re feeling overwhelmed or short on time, I’m here to help. Whether it’s a kitchen refresh, guest space setup, or creating a functional command center, let’s get your home in shape for the season.
👉 Click the button below to schedule a free consultation — limited spots available before Thanksgiving!
A.T. Home Organizing provides professional home organizing services in Austin, TX and surrounding areas. We help our clients feel less overwhelmed in their homes by decluttering, organizing, and setting up systems that last. Click here to book a free consultation so you can feel more at peace in your home.
