14 Wall Hangings to Remove This Holiday Season

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The holidays are a time where we should celebrate and be joyous, it’s also a brilliant time to spruce our home up and make it as warm and welcoming as possible. But let’s be honest: while pulling out the twinkle lights and garlands, some wall hangings might begin to feel out of place. Whatever the case may be — outdated decor, items that clash with the festive vibe, or items that just don’t ‘spark joy’ — there’s always a few decorations we can say goodbye to for the season.

Just think of it as a holiday makeover for your walls. Just because you remove something doesn’t mean it’s not great—it just might not fit the cheerful, cozy vibe you’re going for. Plus, by clearing the space, your seasonal decor can come to the surface without having to fight with your year round pieces. So, let’s get to the culprits.

Family pictures From Decades Ago

Photo on wall, picture on wall, picture, frame — Photo Credit: Shutterstock

Your guests may enjoy your family pictures, but that one of everyone squinting in the sun at your 2012 beach vacation? Perhaps you need to give that one a break. Replace it with a current family photo, or a holiday print that reflects the spirit of the season.

Generic Motivational Quotes

18 Stunning Living Room Inspirations for Your Dream Home Decor — Image Credit: Heather B/Pexels

‘Live, Laugh, Love’ had its time, and that time might be behind us. Sometimes, these types of wall art can feel impersonal. To avoid that, try something with a little more personality or that is holiday relevant, such as a chalkboard with seasonal quotes or song lyrics.

Dated Holiday Decorations

You probably have that one wall hanging that doesn’t exactly say “holiday cheer,” but screams “grandma’s attic.” If the wreath is faded or the Santa is old fashioned, switch to something a bit more fresh and vibrant.

Wall Clocks That Don’t Work

Physical Alarm Clocks — Image Credit: Shawn Stutzman/pexels

A broken wall clock isn’t so much a decor fail as it is a constant reminder that you haven’t gotten around to fixing it. If it’s not ticking, at least for now think about taking it down. A wreath or holiday sign tucked into the space works well.

Out-of-Season Art

Funky Wall Murals — Image Credit: Pixabay

You might love that beach landscape painting, but its ambiance surely is not suited to a winter wonderland. For now, tuck it away and replace it with something more fitting of the season such as a snowy forest scene or abstract winter colors.

Overly Bright Abstracts

There’s nothing wrong with bold, colorful abstract art, but it might not exactly go with the cozy, muted tones of holiday decor. If you feel that it’s stealing the spotlight, try temporarily replacing it with softer, seasonal artwork.

Forever Ago Kids’ Doodles

It’s great that you love to keep sentimental items, but if your child’s finger painting from preschool is still on the wall and they’re now in high school, it’s probably time to give it a rest (or, at least, rotate it out). A fresh touch can be added to your walls without overwhelming them with a curated display of current pieces.

Old Calendars

Household Things Every Boomer Should Get Rid Of — Image Credit: Claudio Elias/Wikimedia Commons

You have probably been there: It’s November, but the calendar on the wall still reads April. This is your sign to take it down. Festive hanging can be used for the space or leave it blank for a more cleaner and modern look.

Faded Tapestries

Tapestries add texture to a room but if it’s a little worse for wear, it might plummet the whole vibe. Think of replacing it with a winter themed textile or a light weight cozy garland.

Heavy Metal Art

Actual heavy metal decor, like large iron sculptures or industrial type pieces, can seem out of place when you are celebrating Christmas. Something lighter and more cheerful sounds better than them, and it will make your space feel less harsh and more inviting.

Distracting Themes Artwork

Hanging Art Too High — Image Credit: SHVETS Production / Pexels

If you have a quirky or eccentric piece of art, it may not mesh so well with holiday cheer. Let’s save it for the new year and replace it with more neutral or festive art.

Decor That’s Out of Sync With the Season

Any autumn themed wall hangings are going to have to go. Yes, the pumpkin spice season was some magical stuff, but now it’s time for holly berries and snowflakes.

Outdated Technology Displays

Do you have an old DVD rack or wall mounted CD collection? It might be better to pack it up for the holidays unless it is intentionally retro. This allows space for holiday decor that provides a little nostalgia without feeling messy. ‘Editing is as important as adding to your decor,’ says design expert Emily Henderson.

Overcrowded Walls or Repetitive Patterns

Wall Art — Image credit: onlinefabricstore

If you have your wall crammed with too many similar looking pieces, it can seem chaotic. When you take away a few items, it allows your holiday decor pop and makes your look cleaner and more intentional.

Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.