Now that the Christmas decorations are starting to come down, it’s time to start thinking about the upcoming Holiday season. From decorating your home to ticking off names on your Christmas shopping list, there’s a lot to do in the coming weeks.

In an effort to keep you organized (in the kitchen at least) we’ve compiled seven tips to get those kitchen appliances ready for the upcoming holiday season demands.

1. STOCK THE WINE FRIDGE

This is by far the most important tip of all! Before you even begin planning this year’s festivities, you’ll want to draw up a to-do list first. There’s no better way to tackle this important first step than with a glass of your favourite winter red in one hand and a pen in your other.

2. CLEAR COUNTERTOP CLUTTER

To get yourself prepared for the onslaught of holiday baking and cooking, start off on the right foot with clean, uncluttered kitchen countertops. You’ll not only love the extra space for cookie decorating and meal prep, you’ll probably need it too.

3. FREE UP THE FRIDGE

Before packing the fridge full of holiday feast food items, give it a really good clean. Start by removing old forgotten left overs and expired condiments, then give it a good scrubbing. This is also an excellent time to check seals, replace burnt out lights and water filters, and clean the cold air vents.

4. STOCK UP ON SPICES

With the amount of baking and cooking you’ll most likely be doing, it’s important to check the levels of your spice rack. There’s nothing worse than running out of ginger, cinnamon, or cloves while preparing your famous gingerbread man cookie recipe.

5. CLEAN THE COOKING APPLIANCES

Your oven and stovetop are going to be in high demand soon, so it’s a good idea to clean these two appliances before then.  While you’re at it, it’s not a bad idea to ensure your kitchen ventilation system is in perfect working condition too.

6. CHECK OUT THE CHRISTMAS CHINA

Since most people pride themselves on their Christmas china, it’s a good idea to pull it out well in advance since it’s only used once a year. Make sure all the pieces are accounted for then give it a good wash. When Christmas dinner rolls around, you’ll feel much more prepared knowing this step has already been taken care of.

7. SHARPEN KITCHEN KNIVES

The last thing you want to do is carve a turkey with a dull knife. Pull out that knife sharpener and get to work well before the holiday season rolls around. You’ll be so thankful you did when you’ve got a table full of hungry bellies waiting for you and your perfectly prepared turkey dinner.