Looking for Christmas decorating ideas? This ultimate Christmas decorating checklist covers everything you need. From prepping your space and setting up your tree to styling your mantel, kitchen, and entryway. Get inspired with cozy holiday decor tips and must-have items for a festive home.
If Christmas decorating feels a little overwhelming every year, you’re definitely not alone. Between unpacking bins, fluffing trees, and trying to make everything look festive (but not like Santa’s workshop exploded), it’s a lot to keep track of.
This year, skip the stress with this Ultimate Christmas Decorating checklist. A step-by-step guide to help turn your home into the cozy, magical space you’ve been dreaming of.
Whether you love a full-on Hallmark movie look or something minimal and modern, this checklist will walk you through everything to make decorating easy, intentional, and fun.
Step 1: Prep Before You Deck
Before the twinkly lights come out, start with a little prep. It makes the decorating part so much easier later.
Before decorating:
- Clean and clear surfaces (mantels, shelves, and tables)
- Pack away fall decor
- Check outlets, extension cords, and timers
- Unbox and test your Christmas lights
- Take inventory of what you already have
- Make a quick list of what needs replacing or updating
- Turn on your favorite Christmas playlist or light a cozy candle to set the mood.
Step 2 : Start with the Big Stuff
Start with statement pieces. The ones that set the tone for the entire home
Focus on:
- Christmas tree(s) – fluff, shape, and check lights
- Garlands for mantels, stair railings, or doorways
- Front porch or entryway setup
- outdoor lights and wreaths
Step 3: Add the Cozy Layers
Once the main pieces are in place, it’s time to layer in all the cozy details that make the space feel warm and lived in.
Cozy layer ideas:
- Chunky throw blankets
- Holiday pillows
- Candles and candleholders
- faux greenery stems or pine sprigs
- Table runners and placemats
- Festive hand towels for kitchen and bath
Step 4: Decorate by Room
Breaking it down room-by-room keeps the process simple and organized.
Living Room
- Tree setup (ornaments, ribbon, topper, skirt or collar)
- Mantel styling (garland, stockings, candles)
- Coffee table tray with a small tree or candle
- Cozy throw blanket on the couch
Kitchen
- Mini wreaths or garland above the stove or sink
- Holiday mugs on display
- Seasonal dish towels
- Bowl of ornaments or pinecones on the counter
Bedrooms
- String lights or a small tree
- Christmas bedding or flannel sheets
- Subtle candle with a warm scent
Bathroom
- Holiday hand towels
- Festive soap or candle
- Mini wreath around the mirror
Entryway
- Layered doormat (plaid rug + welcome mat combo)
- Wreath on the front door
- Garland or bowl of ornaments on the console table
Step 5: Add the Final Touches
Now for the best part. Those tiny details that make everything feel extra magical.
Dont forget:
- Stockings and stocking holders
- Advent calendar
- Wrapped “display gifts” under the tree
- Scented pinecones or a Christmas simmer pot
- Outdoor wreaths and doormats
- Christmas playlist or movie night setup
Step 6: Store & Label for Next Year
Once everything looks perfect, take a little time to organize before packing things away.
Storage checklist:
- Label bins clearly (Tree Decor, Mantel Decor, Kitchen, etc.)
- Wrap ornaments safely
- Store garlands separately to prevent tangles
- Donate or toss anything not being used.
