Stress-Free Christmas Decoration Ideas And Tips For A Festive Home

The holiday season should be a time of joy, but many people report feeling less than elated this time of year. In fact, a Thumbtack survey reveals that 58% of Americans stress out when thinking about the holidays. At least 25% identify preparing for the holidays (cleaning, organizing) as their major source of stress. Also, 10% say decorating the home (and implementing their Christmas decoration ideas) is their top stressor – and 25% have suffered injuries while either putting up or taking down decorations.

On the other hand, some people are renters, and lament that they are limited in their holiday decorating efforts.

Kendra Sinclair, Thumbtack’s home design trends expert recommends using what you have. “Use your everyday home decor as a foundation and add a few festive touches here and there,” she says. “You don’t need to overhaul your space to bring in the holiday spirit.” That may be welcome news to homeowners saving for home maintenance costs that exceed $10,000 a year.

Whether you hate decorating, are too busy for full-blown decorations, or live in an apartment and are looking for ways to express the holiday spirit, these are some quick and easy Christmas decoration ideas and tips that don’t take much time, energy, or money.

Incorporate Greenery

According to Cathleen Gruver at Virginia-based Gruver Cooley Interiors, greenery can go a long way toward creating a festive environment. “Incorporate it on a dining table, mantle, and/or a light fixture to instantly make your space more festive,” she says.“You can go faux if you don’t want to deal with cleanup, or use extra branches from your yard or Christmas tree.”

Create A Festive Entryway

If you only decorate one space in your home, consider the entryway. “The holidays are the perfect time to welcome guests with a festive entryway,” explains Imani Keal, renter-friendly design expert at Yale Home. She recommends adding a holiday-themed wreath to your door and/or a holiday-themed doormat out front.

Decorate with Ornaments

Christopher Grubb, president of Arch-Interiors Design Group in Beverly Hills, suggests putting ornaments in clear cylindrical vases. Another idea: if you have an abundance of ornaments, Grubb says you can wire them into garland. “For a sentimental touch, I’ve used my mother’s and grandmother’s costume jewelry as ornaments,” he says.

DIY ornaments are another option. “You can get clear plastic ornaments from a craft store and fill them with anything from fake snow to glitter or little holiday trinkets,” Keal says. “It’s a great way to personalize your space, whether hanging them around your home, or on a tree.” In addition, she says they make great personalized and inexpensive gifts.

Set A Festive Table

The dining room table is another place to create a festive environment – and incorporate hostingcore. “Use two solid fabrics (red and green, silver and gold, solid and holiday patterns) and twist/wrap them together to create a unique runner on your table or buffet,” advises Grubb. “It is more interesting than a traditional runner, and candles mixed in add a beautiful touch.”

Also, if you have a chandelier, Grubb recommends adding shades with a holiday pattern, and then using table linens and candles that complement colors in the shades. And here’s a unique idea: “A twist on having place cards, write in your guest’s name, inserting them into ornaments that hold photos or photo frames,” Grubb says.

Dress Up The Bar Cart

Keal recommends transforming your bar cart into a mini winter wonderland. “Use festive glassware, a bowl of cranberries for garnish, and a small vase of evergreen branches – and bonus points if you mix in some string lights or faux snow for a whimsical touch,” she says.

Incorporate Festive Bedding

A festive bed can serve as a statement piece. “Mix in festive blankets, bedding, and pillows—think deep greens, plaids, or cozy flannels,” Keal says. She recommends a mix of patterns, like tartan sheets paired with a solid-colored blanket, and says velvet accents can also add a layer of opulence and coziness. “Go big with blankets or throw pillows in jewel tones such as emerald, sapphire, or burgundy paired with gold for perfect holiday vibes.”

Swap Out Pillows

Gruver likes the idea of swapping out throw pillows or pillow covers. “Pillows are such an easy way to change the feel of your space to be more holiday-centric – and you can easily rotate your pillow covers for the season to change the look, without a hefty price tag.”

Use Wall Art

Swapping out some of your wall art for festive choices is another easy Christmas decoration idea. Also, Keal recommends a DIY Christmas card display. “String up cards from friends and family on twine using mini clothespins to create a heartwarming, personal gallery wall for holiday cheer and personality,” she says.

And Keal has another tip: “As restaurants do during the holidays wrap your wall art with festive wrapping paper,” she recommends.

Bring In Holiday Scents

You can also bring in the Christmas spirit using fragrances. Keal recommends splurging on your favorite candle that has a festive looks and smell. “It’s the easiest way to cozy up your whole space.” She also loves programmable fragrance diffusers that release holiday scents like cinnamon, pine, or cloves.

Gruver recomends flameless candles. “I love how cozy they can make a space feel, and that you can put them on a timer to turn on when it starts to get dark.

Consider A Window Wonderland

If you don’t want to hang decor on the walls, Keal says you can use your windows. “Clings, removable decals, and suction-cup hooks are all renter-friendly ways to decorate your windows – and add fun both inside and out.

Experiment With Paint

If you’re feeling more adventurous – or need to do some touch-up painting anyway, Sue Kim, director of color marketing at Valspar, has some great Christmas decoration ideas. “Traditionally, we tend to see a lot of red, green, blue, and metallics throughout the holiday season.” She recommends simple projects that use color that will either pop against these holiday hues or serve as the perfect backdrop to let the metallics shine.

“One easy project is to paint a planter using cabinet and furniture paint in a color that will pop against a red poinsettia or the blue undertones of a spruce tree.”She says the light purples pull the warm and cool shades of traditional holiday colors while adding a touch of refreshing shades through the winter season.

“If you’re considering painting your door, the Valspar Green Garlands color works well against potted evergreens, a seasonal wreath, and green patterned doormat,” Kim says.

Use Caution When Installing Lights

When installing outdoor lights, Rich Young, brand president at Outdoor Lighting Perspectives, says you should prioritize safety. “Use rubber-soled shoes to prevent slipping and always have someone spot you if you’re using a ladder.” In addition, he notes that your pathways should be well-lit to avoid accidents caused by unseen ice or obstacles.

For a different look, consider a customized design that can enhance the beauty of your space and create a festive atmosphere. “Consider using a mix of string lights, wreaths, and other decorative elements to make your display stand out,” Rich advises. He also provides these common mistakes to avoid with installing Christmas lights:

• Not using outdoor rated lights: “Only select lights marked for outdoor use certified by UL or ETL to withstand weather conditions,” Rich says.
• Overloading circuits: Plugging too many strands into one outlet risks overloads and fires; Rich advises the use of surge protectors to prevent this.
• Ignoring safety precautions: “Use stable ladders, wear fall protection, work with a partner to prevent injuries,” Rich advises.
• Not measuring: If you fail to measure areas, Rich explains that this can lead to strands that are too short or long.
• Light testing: “Always plug lights in before installation to ensure everything is functioning correctly,” Rich says.
• Never use nails. Rich warns that nails are not your friend when it comes to outdoor lighting installation. “They take unnecessary time and can cause damage to your home, especially with roof line lighting.” Instead, he recommends purchasing Christmas light clips. “They hold the light in place using the weight of your roof shingles and they are easier to install than nailing lights in place.”

These are some of the items that can help you easily decorate your home for the holidays.

Pull Up Christmas Tree

If you dread putting up your Christmas tree, consider the Hammacher Schlemmer Decoratable Pull Up Christmas Tree. It’s 6 feet tall and has 567 branch tips with dark green needles. The tree is also pre-strung with 200 incandescent lights, and can be set up in just seconds.

Wreath And Doormat

This Pre-Lit Snowey Pinecone LED Wreath from The Company Store can be used outdoors on the front door, or indoors as a centerpiece or to hang on a wall. The lifelike pine cones are frosted with faux snow. The wreath has 35 pre-strung LED lights and uses three AA batteries.

The Holiday Coir Doormat is available in two sizes (18 inches x 30 inches, and 24 inches x 36 inches). It’s handcrafted of natural coir, which is a durable fiber made from coconut husks. The doormat is also fade-resistant. In addition to then gnomes design, other options winter sheep, trees, and dogs.

Ornaments and Garland

The CG Hunter 4” Assorted Vintage Rose Glass Ornaments come in a set of six. The ornaments have matte and shiny vintage rose finishes, and add elegance, depth, and dimension. The 9’ Artificial Pine Garland with Pinecones can be used on stairs, tables, and other spaces.

Festive Bedding

The luscious color of the Cozy Earth Bamboo Sheet Set and Bamboo Duvet Cover can add luxurious and elegant comfort to any bedroom. Made of 100% premium viscose from bamboo fabric, the sheet set includes a top sheet, fitted sheet, and two pillowcases. It can fit both regular and deep pocket mattresses. The Bamboo Duvet Cover is also made of 100% viscose from bamboo, and the silky material is temperature-regulating. The duvet cover has interior snap closures and concealed bottom zip closure.

Another option is the lightweight Bedsure Linen Cotton Duvet Cover Set in forest green. Made of 55% cotton and 45% linen, the set is breathable and moisture-wicking. The set is also pre-washed and designed to be soft. The Christmas Penguin Green Sherpa Throw Blanket can be used to layer bedding or tossed across a sofa or chair. The material is warm and can be machine washed and dried.

The Bedsure Vegan Faux Fur Blanket Throw mimics fur and provides a smooth and cozy texture. It not only looks and feels luxurious, but is easy to care for, and can be machine-washed in cold water and placed in the dryer.

Another Christmas decoration idea, the Monsanto Throw in red has a waffle weave that provides texture. Crafted of 100% cotton, it has a fringe trim, and is colorful, yet elegant. The throw is 50 inches x 70 inches, and can be machine washed in cold water, and then placed in the dryer on a low setting.

Wall Art

Buy Wall Art’s Christmas Village With Snow in Vintage Style is a ready-to-hang picture that’s available in canvas, framed canvas, and framed print versions. Sizes range from 20 inches x 20 inches to 40 inches x 40 inches.

Displate’s Festive Christmas Reindeer is another Christmas decoration idea utilizing wall art, and it is available in sizes ranging from 17.7 x 12.6 inches to 35.4 inches to 25.2 inches. It’s a stainless steel post that mounts with a magnet, so there’s no need to put holes in the wall.

Colorful Cookware

The T-fal Ingenio Nonstick Cookware Set is available in several holiday colors, including forest green, cherry red, copper, and cobalt blue. The 14-piece set is oven broiler safe up to 500 degrees F (excluding the lids and handles),. The induction base provides fast and even heating, and has a thermos-spot heat indicator that turns red when the pan has been preheated. In addition, the handles are detachable.

The 5.3-quart GreenPan Merten & Storck Enamel Iron Dutch Oven adds holiday cheer and is ideal for one-pot recipes like Jambalaya, stew, soup, lobster bisque, and no-knead bread. It’s oven safe up to 500 degrees F, and has a recessed lid to prevent boil overs, and a chip-resistant finish. Color choices are foundry red, Aegean teal, azure blue, and cloud gray.

Stylish Flatware

The Cangshan RAIN II Series 20-Piece Flatware Set has an antique copper finish, and includes four of the following: dinner knives, dinner forks, dinner spoons, salad forks, and teaspoons. Forged from 19/10 stainless steel, the beautiful flatware is beautiful and durable.

The Cuisinart Sienna Collection is a 20-piece set that provides services for four. Handcrafted of stainless steel, the set is dishwasher safe, and the modern design works with any type of holiday table setting.

Festive Dinnerware

The Company Store’s Le Cadeaux Garnet Melamine Set includes appetizes plates, salad plates and dinner plates in a colorful solid red. The dinnerware matches well with the Vischio Melamine Set in festive red and white. This set includes appetizer bowls, salad plates, dinner plates, dessert bowls, and cereal bowls.

The Myrth 4 Piece Place Setting includes a dinner plate, appetizer plate, tasting bowl, and helping bowl. In addition to the single setting, it’s also available in 8, 10, and 12-piece settings. Glade colors include cream, glacier, tempest, sungold, sienna, ivy, and also the option to mix and match colors.

These Duralex Le Picardie Green Tumblers are made of tempered glass, and suitable for both hot and cold drinks. The stackable glasses are both microwave and dishwasher safe. Duralex also makes matches dinner plates, dessert plates, soup plates, and table bowls

Colorful Beverage Containers

YETI’s Wild Vine Red collection includes a 64-ounce pitcher with a twist-to-lock pitcher lid that’s great for everything from sweet tea to margaritas. It has a splash-proof lid and double-wall vacuum insulation. The Stackable Cups (with DuraSip ceramic lining) also have double-wall insulation, and the mugs will fit under most espresso machines.

Yummy Treats

‘Tis the season to indulge your taste buds. These yummy Hammacher Schlemmer gourmet sweets include truffles, silky caramels, pralines, fondants, and fudge. And for a change a pace from the typical Christmas dinner, this Maine Coastal Feast includes lobsters, mussels, shrimp, scallops, and corn on the cob. The full-cooked, flash-frozen meal arrives in a foil pouch and merely needs to be thawed and reheated.

Easy Peasy Holiday Lights

Incorporate holiday lights in your driveway backyard with the Linkind StarRay Solar Outdoor Lights. The 9 fixed colors include red, green, orange, yellow, blue, cyan, purple, warm white, and cool white – along with a color cycle mode. The waterproof, battery-operated lights last for 12 hours on a single charge. Linkind also makes TV backlights to create a festive vibe around your entertainment center.

The eufy Indoor Floor Lamp E10 is a space-saving lamp that produces up to 1700 lumens of brightness and incorporates RGB, cool, and warm white LEDS so you can find the right holiday hues. The heavy-duty base is also wobble-free and can be tilted up to 25 degrees. The lamp can also be controlled via smartphone, which makes it easy to customize colors, brightness, and select holiday presets – and the lamp can be controlled via Alexa and Google Assistant as well.

Holiday Sounds

Holiday tunes are also create a festive atmosphere. With the Victrola Automatic Turntable, you can play your favorite vinyl records. This model is easy to operate: place the record on the platter, press play, the intuitive control layout does the rest. The record player also has a repeat function that lets you play your favorite songs over and over.

The Tribit StormBox Blast 2 Speaker provides panoramic sounds and lets you play music indoors or outside. It even has an interactive Karaoke feature as well as customized dynamic LED lighting for hosting great parties. The 200W output speaker has an 80W subwoofer that can be used with both wired and wireless microphones. In addition, the battery-operated speaker has a 30-hour playtime.

Festive Clothing

You can be comfortable and stylish while entertaining in the Leset Lauren Long Sleeve Maxi Dress. Made of buttery soft sweater jersey, the figure skimming dress has fitted sleeves, and you can dress it up or down, depending on your hosting style.

These red tartan plaid Posh Peanut Women’s Flannelette Luxe Pajamas effortlessly bring the holiday cheer. With a chest pocket, crest embroidery, and piping details, the flame-retardant fabric has a relaxed fit.

These Christmas decoration ideas can help you quickly and easily bring the holiday spirit home.