After every party comes the cleanup. Dishes need washing, trash has to be taken out and floors must be cleaned — the list feels endless. Even if the chores are postponed until the next day, they still wait. While party planning usually focuses on how much to spend, how tables will be set and what dishes will be served, the aftermath is often overlooked. 

But what about how much money can be saved and how much work can be avoided when hosting gatherings? Doing so can mean less to clean later— and more time and energy reclaimed.

Think about how many gift bags, ribbons and leftover food end up in the trash after get-togethers in your home. Hosting holiday parties is understandably exciting – we only want the best for our loved ones, after all. This season, however, preparations can be simpler. Skipping a few things that a party can do without can make a big difference. Show a lot of love for yourself by looking forward to having less to clean and throw away. Below are some tips for hosting a more waste-free party. You may thank yourself later when you see the savings, enjoy the extra time to rest and feel better about asking less from the environment.

• Say no to new décor. Chances are you already have items in your home that can double as centerpieces, such as small plants, old vases or even bowls filled with fruit or snacks. Is it really worth buying something new that will be used for only a few hours? Tablecloths do not need to match perfectly, and parties can be just as festive without garlands.

• Ask guests to bring food containers. Instead of buying new plastic containers, encourage your guests to bring food storage from home. If they forget, lend them some of yours. Most homeowners are surprisingly good at tracking borrowed containers. Another tip: if you have containers you can let go of, prepare these in advance. This saves time and makes it easier for guests to help themselves. Paper or reusable bags from home can also help guests carry everything neatly.

• Take only what you can consume. Guests will surely be excited to enjoy the food, especially if your signature dishes are on the table. Mention that there is more than enough food for seconds or thirds to encourage mindful portions. If guests ask for small servings to bring home, follow their lead. Like you, they do not want food to go to waste. Food scraps will be inevitable, but these can be composted or given to livestock owners for animal feed.

• Wash instead of throw away. Do away with plastic utensils, paper cups, paper plates, as well as tissue paper and paper towels. Single-use items add to waste without offering real savings. Washing dishes may be tiring, but at least it is easier on the budget. You will also have less trash to manage—especially in areas where garbage collection is not daily.

• Recycle whenever possible. Raffle numbers and names can be written on recycled paper. Set aside a box for empty cans and bottles. Do not hesitate to ask guests to help dispose of food and recyclables properly. It makes cleanup easier for your household, and may inspire them to host waste-free parties of their own.

• Come as you are. Costume themes and required color schemes can be fun, but they may force guests to spend extra. If they have to buy something just to comply, chances are it will not be worn again—adding to unnecessary waste. A relaxed dress code is often appreciated.

• Be mindful about gifts and gift wrappers. Prepare containers for used gift wrappers, tags, ribbons and plastic packaging such as bubble wrap. Paper can be recycled, while ribbons and bubble wrap can often be reused. Gifts you will not use can be regifted or sold online.