11 Items to Help You Get All Your Winter Gear in Order

Winter is coming, and it’s time to get organized so you can fully enjoy the cozy and fun parts of the season without hassle. Having your winter gear in order makes winter sports, activities and tasks go smoothly and helps ensure you stay warm, safe, and happy all season long.

Getting your home, car, clothing, equipment and supplies ready for winter takes a bit of time and effort upfront, but saves you from frustrations down the road. With some simple organization systems, checklists and preparation, you can get all your winter gear in order and greet the season with confidence and excitement.

Get Your Home Ready for Winter with these Handy Organizing Tips

Preparing your home for cold weather and the holiday season takes some organization and decluttering. Follow these tips to get your living spaces ready for cozy nights in, holiday gatherings, and winter projects indoors.

Clear Clutter and Designate Storage Spaces

Go through each room and declutter items you no longer need or want. Donate or sell unwanted decor, clothing, toys and household items.
Designate spaces to neatly store winter garments, gear and holiday decor. Closets, plastic bins, or shelves work well for designating a spot for each item.
Vacuum and dust to clear dust and allergens circulating in central heating systems. Clean ceiling fans, baseboards, and window treatments.
Check windows and doors for drafts. Seal leaks with caulk or weather stripping to keep the cold air out.

Organize Supplies for Indoor Winter Fun

Gather arts and crafts supplies for making homemade cards, ornaments and decorations. Store together in a bin for easy access.
Have board games, puzzles, books and movies accessible for family fun. Decorate with throws and pillows for cozy lounging.
Ensure you have enough wrapping paper, gift bags, tissue, ribbon, tags and tape stocked for holiday gift giving.
Consider creating personalized baskets filled with blankets, snacks, activities and games for each member of the family to enjoy this winter.

Prep Your Kitchen for Baking, Entertaining and Cozy Nights In

Check spices and restock baking essentials like flour, sugar, chocolate, butter, eggs, etc.
Ensure appliances and equipment needed for baking and cooking are in working order. Invest in new pots, pans or gadgets if needed.
Clear countertops and organize serving trays, platters, dishes, utensils, cookbooks and essential gadgets for easy access when cooking and baking up holiday treats.
Stock up on non-perishable snacks and ingredients for impromptu appetizers when guests stop by. Have hot chocolate, cider, tea and spirits ready for serving beverages.

Gear Up Your Garage and Exterior for Maximum Functionality

Preparing the exterior of your home helps you easily access your vehicle, safely clear snow, and keeps your property protected. Use these tips to get your garage, walkways, and exterior in top shape for winter.

Organize Your Garage for Vehicle and Gear Accessibility

Clear clutter and sweep the garage floor to designate space for vehicles as well as boxes containing winter sports gear and emergency supplies.
Install sturdy shelving to store winter gear including traction aids like snow chains or sand bags which weigh down vehicles for improved traction.
Ensure shovels, ice scrapers, brooms, de-icer, snow thrower, extension cords, flashlights and a fully stocked winter emergency kit are easily accessible in the garage.

Winterize Landscaping and Exterior Spaces

Service snow blowers, generators, and pool equipment and store properly for winter.
Clean out gutters and ensure downspouts direct water away from the foundation.
Prune tree branches and shrubs to minimize damage from heavy snow and ice accumulation.
Cover or store outdoor furniture cushions. Place salt buckets and snow shovels/brooms by each exterior door.
Check exterior lighting and replace burned out bulbs so you can easily navigate outdoors on dark winter mornings and evenings.

Winter Clothing Essentials to Organize for Cold Weather Comfort

The right winter wardrobe makes all the difference in comfort and accessibility. Follow these tips to get your closets organized for functionality this winter.

Use Closet Organizers to Designate Spaces

Invest in cloth cubbies, shelves, or drawer organizers specially sized for sweaters, gloves, hats, scarves and bulky shoes.
Designate space at the front of the closet for coats, mittens, hats, scarves and boots for easy entryway access when going in and out.
Use dividers, shelving, hanging bags or bins to sort clothes by type – workwear, casual wear, sportswear, ski/snow gear, etc.

Check Your Winter Wardrobe and Fill in Gaps

Try on winter coats and jackets to ensure a proper fit and that zippers function. Replace as needed.
Assess if you need additional sweaters, fleece tops, thermal underwear, thick socks, gloves, and winter-proof footwear like insulated boots.
Ensure kids winter gear still fits properly and invest in extended sizes as needed. Have spare gloves/mittens, hats, and neck warmers.
Gather winter accessories like earmuffs, hand warmers, face masks, scarves, and bag/pocket warmers and store together for easy access.

Utilize Storage Tools to Wrangle Bulkier Items

Use space bags or garment bags to compress coats, snow pants, jackets and bulky sweaters to reclaim closet rod space.
Store extra blankets, throws, and pillows in vacuum seal bags under beds to free up linen closet space.
Use hanging shoe organizers or racks to neatly store winter boots. Store off-season shoes under beds.
Place gloves, hats, scarves and neck warmers in baskets so they can be easily grabbed on your way out the door.

Vehicle Preparation for Safe Winter Travels

Getting your vehicle winter-ready takes some preparation but is vital for safe travels when roads are snowy and icy. Use this organizational checklist when prepping your car for winter weather driving.

Complete Preventative Maintenance in Fall

Change the oil, check filters, tire pressure and tread depth, and top off windshield wiper fluid mixed with de-icer.
Test the battery, belts, hoses and lights and replace if needed. Check brakes.
Inspect wipers and replace any that are cracked, rigid or streaky. Fill washer fluid reservoir with winter mix fluid.

Stock Your Vehicle with Winter Safety Essentials

Pack an emergency kit with jumper cables, flashlight, traction aids, first aid supplies, non-perishable snacks, battery powered radio, blankets, gloves, hats, boots etc.
Keep an ice scraper, snow brush, small shovel and de-icer spray readily accessible in the back seat or trunk.
Ensure there is a seat belt cutter and window breaking device packed in your vehicle in case of emergency and you need to exit the vehicle.
Place cat litter, sand or special traction mats in your trunk during winter months to help gain traction if your wheels spin out on ice.

Install Winter Driving Aids for Added Safety

Invest in all-weather tires with deep, snow-grabbing treads or purchase snow chains for existing tires.
Apply snow and ice traction tape to exposed metal surfaces like side steps to prevent slipping.
Consider adding a protective undercarriage guard to prevent corrosion from salt and brine solution sprayed on roads.
Tint windows and invest in thermal reflective sunshades to aid with snow glare and keep the vehicle interior warmer.

Essential Snow Removal and Safety Gear to Organize

Removing snow quickly and efficiently makes winter far more enjoyable. Use this checklist to ensure your snow removal gear is prepped and easily accessible for sidewalks, driveways, decks and exterior stairs around your property.

Assemble Snow Removal Tools

Invest in ergonomic snow shovels and scoops that are sized appropriately for each person clearing snow.
Ensure snow brushes, push brooms, ice scrapers and snow rakes are sturdy and in good condition. Replace worn handles and heads as needed.
Fill a bucket with ice melt or rock salt and place near exterior doors for easy access when de-icing steps and walkways.
Tune up snow blowers and fuel. Ensure shear pins, skid shoes and scraper blades are in good condition.

Gather Protective Winter Safety Gear

Have waterproof, insulated gloves or mittens available for each person clearing snow from walkways and driveways.
Store insulated winter boots on an exterior porch or in a convenient entryway closet to easily slip on when snow blowing or shoveling.
Wear bright outer layers when removing snow near roads so vehicles can see you. Reflective vests add an extra layer of visibility.
Protect your eyes and face from blowing snow when using snow blowers. Keep ski goggles or protective eyewear accessible with winter gear.

Reserve Space for Snow Storage and Drip Pans

Designate areas along the edge of the driveway or backyard for piling shoveled snow. Avoid piling directly against structures.
Place drip pans, buckets or tarps under snow blowers and shovels stored in the garage to catch melting snow and prevent puddles.

Winter Sports Gear to Organize for Fun on the Slopes

Taking advantage of winter sports is so much easier when all your equipment and gear is organized and ready to go at a moment’s notice. Use these tips to prep your skiing, snowboarding, skating and sledding gear.

Designate Space in Mudroom, Garage or Vehicle

Install wall hooks to hang ski poles, snowboards and sleds vertically to save floor space.
Store helmets, goggles, gloves, boot bags etc in bins or cubbies, labeled for each family member.
Place a waterproof mat, tub or bucket in vehicles to corral wet gear on the drive home.

Conduct Seasonal Maintenance for Optimal Performance

Get skis and snowboards tuned, edges sharpened, bindings adjusted and waxed at the start of the season.
Replace worn straps on helmets, snowshoes, boots, bindings and bags. Discard old mouthguards and buy new ones.
Wash and thoroughly dry all clothing and gear at the end of each season before storing over summer.

Organize a Portable Winter Fun Bag

Pack a small duffle or tote bag with hand and foot warmers, chemical hot packs, face masks, spare gloves,First aid kit, flashlight, snacks, thermos, lighter, candles, blankets, etc.
Keep the winter fun bag in your vehicle or handy spot at home for spontaneous trips to the slopes, rink or sledding hill.

Check Winter Gear Supply Levels

Conduct an inventory of ski goggles, helmets, gloves, neck gaiters, snow pants, base layers, socks etc. Restock as needed.
Ensure kids gear still fits before heading out for winter activities. Replace helmets, goggles, boots, etc as they grow.
Stock up on chemical hot packs that activate when squeezed and provide several hours of heat. Place inside gloves, boots, pockets, hats and more.

Holiday Decor Organization Tips for a Festive Home

The right holiday organization systems make decorating your home for the season a breeze year after year. Follow these tips to store decorations organized by category for easy access.

Label Ornament Storage Boxes by Theme or Color

Utilize clear plastic containers to easily see ornament contents at a glance. Label boxes by color, occasion, room, etc.
Separate more delicate ornaments and hangable decor in divided compartments or own container.
Store ornament hooks, ribbon, hangers and replacement lights with corresponding decor.

Designate Separate Container for Each Holiday Decoration Category

Trees: Tree stand, skirt, topper, collar, branches, lights, treetop decor
Indoor decor: Wreaths, garlands, figurines, candles, tabletop decor
Outdoor decor: Light strands, yard stakes, outdoor figurines, doormats, wreaths
Wrapping supplies: Paper, gift bags, tissue, bows, ribbon, gift tags, tape, scissors
Baking and hosting supplies: Cookie cutters, baking pans, platters, linens, serveware

Keep Special Seasonal Textiles Organized

Place tablecloths, napkins, dish towels, potholders etc for holiday meals together in a labeled bin.
Store holiday linens like decorative pillows, throws and table runners together for a quick festive home refresh.
Refold and store quilts, blankets and extra bedding used for holiday houseguests.

Maintain Decorations Properly After Use

Carefully pack lights, ornaments, garlands and outdoor decor to prevent tangling and breakage.
Clean decorations gently before storing to prevent deterioration. Check lights and replace burned out bulbs.
Store decor in climate controlled areas, avoiding attics or garages with extreme temperatures and humidity.

Winter Gear Maintenance Essentials

Gear properly maintained before and after winter use will last for years to come. Follow these tips to keep winter equipment in top shape all season long.

Conduct Thorough Cleaning

Hand wash or gently machine wash all clothing and textile gear. Hang to fully dry before storing.
Disinfect helmets, goggles, gloves and protective gear with anti-bacterial sprays or wipes.
Use all-purpose cleaner on snow tools and gear like shovels, roof rakes, snow blowers. Rinse and dry fully.

Check for Wear and Damage

Inspect fasteners, straps, buckles, zippers, heels and hardware on winter gear. Repair or replace as needed.
Feel for dampness or tears in gloves, hats, jackets, boots and other gear. Discard if excessively worn or damaged.
Assess skis, snowboards, sleds etc for cracks, splinters, fraying or rust. Repair any issues promptly.

Maintain Moving Parts

Oil hinges and moving joints on bindings, poles, collapsible sleds, snow blowers etc.
Sharpen blades and edges on ice skates, snow blades, axes and ice scrapers.
Replace shear pins, scraper bars, belts, cables and worn treads on snow blowers.

Touch Up Protective Coatings

Re-waterproof leather boots and equipment with spray protectants.
Wax skis, snowboards, and sled bottoms to maintain speed and prevent drying out.
Touch up chipped rustproofing paint and undercoating on vehicles and equipment.

Winter Emergency Supplies to Organize at Home

Being prepared for winter emergencies ensures safety and comfort for your household during storms and power outages. Use this checklist to organize emergency supplies.

Stock Up on Warmth and Shelter Essentials

Blankets, sleeping bags, mylar blankets
Cold weather clothing and footwear
Hand and foot warmers, hot packs
Firewood, matches, lighter
Camping lantern, crank radio, candles
Tent, tarps

Gather Food, Water and Medications

Shelf-stable food and protein bars
Can opener (non-electric)
Water bottles, stored water
Baby food, formula
Prescription medications
First aid kit, sanitation and hygiene supplies

Prepare Tools and Safety Items

Flashlights, headlamps, batteries
Snow shovel, bags of salt/sand
Generator, fuel
Battery packs and portable chargers
Fire extinguisher
Cash, external phone chargers

Maintain Your Emergency Kit

Place items in accessible, waterproof containers.
Store in an area unlikely to be blocked if exits are snowed in.
Replenish food, medicine, batteries every 6 months.
Update clothing and supplies to fit growing children.
Include entertainment like books, puzzles, games.
Ensure your kit could sustain you comfortably for several days in case of major storms or power outages.

Key Takeaways to Get Your Winter Gear in Order

Getting organized for winter takes some time upfront, but saves you from hassles all season long. Use these key tips to get your home, vehicle, clothing, equipment and emergency supplies ready to take on winter comfortably and safely.

Clear clutter and designate organized storage areas for winter gear and holiday decor.
Assess clothing and equipment needed for winter sports and activities. Fill in any gaps.
Prepare your vehicle with maintenance, winter aids and emergency kits.
Organize snow removal tools and protective gear for safe clearing of walkways and driveways.
Maintain all winter gear properly by cleaning, repairing and protecting from elements before storing over summer.
Check emergency kits and replenish food, water, medications, batteries and other supplies.

With some simple decluttering, preventative maintenance and strategic organization, you’ll be ready to sit back and relax all cozy in your organized home, confident you and your family are prepped for every winter activity. Get your winter gear and supplies in order now so you can fully enjoy the magic of the winter season.

Frequently Asked Questions About Getting Winter Gear in Order

What are the most important areas to organize before winter arrives?

Some key areas to tackle are your winter clothing, holiday decorations, snow removal and winter driving gear, emergency supplies, and general home maintenance to winterize windows, outdoor spaces, garages and vehicles.

How early should I organize winter gear and decor?

Aim to assess clothing, equipment and decor by late summer or early Fall so you can purchase replacement items and conduct any necessary maintenance