As November rolls in, Barbados begins to buzz with anticipation for the Christmas season. While our island doesn’t experience falling leaves or chilly autumn air, this time of year is still the perfect moment for a “fall cleaning” reset before the festivities begin. Whether you’re a homeowner, holiday rental host, or simply getting ready for family gatherings, here’s how to prepare your home for a sparkling Christmas in paradise.

1. Declutter & Donate

• Go through closets, cupboards, and storage rooms.
• Donate clothes, books, and household items you no longer use — many charities in Barbados welcome them during the season of giving.
• Clearing out now makes space for holiday décor and visiting guests.

A quick reference for where to donate items in Barbados. Always call ahead to confirm opening hours and what items are currently being accepted.

Quick tips

• Ask first: Some groups only accept cash/gift cards or have specific wish lists.
• Condition matters: Clean, working, and safe items only.
• Transport: Many shops don’t collect—plan drop-offs.

 

Organization Location	Contact	What We Accept
Donation Nation (Future Centre Trust)	Little Edgehill, St. Thomas Tel: (246) 571-4521	Clothing, household goods, small furniture
Salvation Army Thrift Store	Reed Street, Bridgetown Tel: (246) 426-2353	Clothing, accessories, small items
St. Vincent de Paul Society	St. Patrick’s Church, Bay Street, Bridgetown Tel: (246) 426-3097	Clothing, household items
YMCA Thrift Shop	Pinfold Street, Bridgetown Tel: (246) 427-7034	Clothing, household items
Barbados Alliance to End Homelessness	Spry Street, Bridgetown Tel: (246) 548-4317	Men’s clothing, toiletries, bedding
Barbados Red Cross	Warrens, St. Michael Tel: (246) 417-1620	Humanitarian supplies, donations (call first)
Ocean Acres Animal Sanctuary	St. John Tel: (246) 262-4505	Pet food, linens, medical supplies, donations
Ark Animal Welfare Society	Salters, St. George Tel: (246) 435-4108	Pet food, supplies, donations
RSPCA Barbados	Spring Garden, St. Michael Tel: (246) 426-3077	Animal care supplies, donations
UWI Cave Hill – Sidney Martin Library	Cave Hill Campus, St. Michael Tel: (246) 417-4440	Books (call acquisitions first)
National Library Service	Coleridge Street, Bridgetown Tel: (246) 535-2900	Books, educational materials
Variety – The Children’s Charity	Hastings, Christ Church Tel: (246) 266-9250	Children’s supplies, donations

 

2. Deep Clean the Essentials

• Focus on high-use areas like the kitchen, bathrooms, and verandas.
• Wash curtains, upholstery, and slipcovers to refresh spaces.
• Don’t forget windows — sparkling glass lets in more of that beautiful Barbadian sunshine.

3. Outdoor Refresh

• Trim hedges, tidy gardens, and clean patios in preparation for entertaining.
• Pressure-wash driveways and walkways.
• Clean gutters and down pipes
• Check outdoor lighting so your home looks inviting for holiday evenings.

4. Check & Service Appliances

• Ensure ovens, stoves, and fridges are working efficiently before Christmas cooking starts.
• Service air-conditioning units and ceiling fans for comfort during holiday gatherings.
• Test smoke detectors and replace batteries where needed.

5. Holiday Rental Readiness

If you’re managing a holiday rental:

• Stock up on fresh linens, towels, and basic kitchen supplies.
• Add festive touches like poinsettias, scented candles, or subtle décor.
• Prepare a welcome basket with seasonal treats or local rum punch ingredients for December guests.

6. Plan Your Décor Early

• Take inventory of Christmas lights, decorations, and ornaments now so you can replace broken items before the rush.
• Consider eco-friendly décor — fresh flowers, shells, and greenery make beautiful island-style arrangements.

Final Thoughts

November is the ideal month in Barbados to give your home (or holiday rental) a seasonal reset. By decluttering, deep-cleaning, and preparing your space now, you’ll glide into December stress-free and ready to celebrate Christmas in true Caribbean style.

Looking to get your holiday rental property guest-ready? Our Coombes & Co. team can help with management, staging, and festive finishing touches.