Clutter-Free Holidays

The holidays don't have to create a lot of waste and clutter. There are easy ways to keep the amount of wrapping paper and junk down this season.

You can use newspaper (especially the comics section) to wrap presents. If you're not a subscriber, many stores have free regional newspapers outside their doors. Save and re-use gift bags--store them with decorations so you can find them next year. Or choose simple gift bags that can be used on any occasion.

Give cash, ebooks, or e-mailed gift cards instead of plastic gift cards whenever possible. I know I tend to lose gift cards, and have a few in my wallet with $2 or less balance at any given time. Or give an "experience," such as a gift certificate to a restaurant, concert, or other activity.

Skip candles and clothes as gifts—or give a gift receipt with them—as many go unused. 

For decorations, stick with items that are minimal and reusable. Stockings are an easy decoration that can be used year after year. If you send out cards, choose simple ones that are easy to recycle—no plastic or glitter.

And if you do receive gifts you don’t want, thank the giver-and then quietly return the gift, or give it away (either to a thrift shop, or a friend).

Any other ideas? Leave them in the comments. 

Photo by rawpixel.com on Unsplash