Back to School Reset: How to Beat Holiday Clutter

It’s that time again—the kids are heading back to school, and I know how chaotic the holidays can leave a home. Toys everywhere, piles of clothes, papers scattered across every surface… I’ve been there, and I know it can feel completely overwhelming.

That’s why I always recommend doing a back to school reset. In my experience, taking some time to declutter and organise before term starts makes mornings calmer, reduces stress, and just generally makes life feel a little more manageable.

Why Decluttering and Organising Matters

From my own experience, I’ve found that when things are messy:

• Stress levels rise – you spend the morning hunting for shoes, bags, or homework.

• Time gets wasted – even a simple breakfast can become a scramble.

• Kids get frustrated too – when their rooms or routines are chaotic, it’s hard for them to stay on top of things.

• Calm goes out the window – a cluttered home just feels stressful.

By prioritising decluttering and organising, you set your family up for a smoother start to the term.

Step 1: Tackle the Rooms You Use Most

In my experience, it’s best to start with the spaces that affect your daily routines the most. That way, you get the biggest impact straight away. I usually begin with:

• Kitchen – the hub of the morning chaos.

• Living Room – where everyone congregates, leaves stuff lying around, and does homework.

• Kids’ Bedrooms – uniforms, toys, and school supplies often pile up here.

• Hallway– the drop zone for coats, shoes, and bags.

• Bathroom – high traffic and essential for smooth mornings.

Step 2: Schedule the Rest

Once the main rooms are under control, I schedule the remaining spaces. Breaking it down this way stops me from feeling overwhelmed and ensures everything gets a proper reset without turning it into a full weekend marathon.

My Room-by-Room Back to School Reset Tips

Kitchen

I always start here because everything revolves around it. Clear the countertops, wipe down surfaces, sort out lunchbox supplies, and check the fridge. It makes mornings feel so much easier!

Living Room

I focus on clearing toys, books, and blankets, dusting surfaces, and vacuuming floors. Having a calm living space really helps everyone feel more relaxed after the holiday chaos.

Kids’ Bedrooms

This is where I spend a bit of time with each child. We declutter floors and surfaces, wash bedding, organise wardrobes, and label storage bins for stationery, books, and craft supplies. Teaching them to put things back properly is worth the effort.

Hallway

I make sure hooks or cubbies are set up for coats, bags, and shoes, and keep the floor clear. In my experience, this simple step prevents a lot of morning panic!

Bathroom

Fresh towels, clean counters, wiped mirrors, and stocked essentials make mornings run smoother. I always make sure this is done before school starts—it makes a big difference.

Back to School Reset: Final Tips

• One room at a time – it’s less stressful and more achievable.

• Get the kids involved – even small tasks help them learn responsibility.

• Label and zone everything – it keeps clutter under control.

• Keep it maintained – a quick tidy once a week prevents the mess from creeping back in.

Doing a back to school reset doesn’t have to be overwhelming. In my experience, prioritising decluttering and organising the rooms you use most first, and scheduling the rest, makes a huge difference. By the end, your home feels calmer, your mornings flow better, and the school term starts on the right foot. If you loved these tips, check out our Back to School Organisation Hacks Post! 

Back to school Reset must Haves!

I’ve rounded up some back to school organising must-haves from Amazon so you don’t have to. These clever finds will get you on your A-game and make mornings a whole lot smoother!

The links below are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase (at no extra cost to you). It’s a simple way to support this blog and everything I share — so thank you for being here!

4 Pack Stackable Foldable Plastic Storage Boxes

Storage Boxes with Lid, 4-Tier Plastic Stackable Storage Boxes 

Amazon Basics Vacuum Compression Zipper Storage Bags with Airtight Valve and Hand Pump, Large, 5-Pack, Clear

Under Sink Storage Organiser, 2 Tier Sliding Storage Under Sink Shelf, Multi-Purpose Organisation

6-Cube Storage Unit with Doors, Cube Organizer for Bedroom, Wardrobe & Under Stairs, 30x30x30cm 

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