If you're not one of those families who are accustomed to leaving the gifts under the tree for the day, have each person take their gifts to their room and put the presents in their places. Once breakfast is over, give the kitchen a quick clean. Pack up any leftovers and do the dishes. {relatedarticles}This will make room for lunch or dinner preparations. Throughout the day, do a spot check. If cups have piled up in the sink, transfer them to the dishwasher. If you're busy making preparations for Christmas dinner, recruit a family member to do the dishes while you're slaving over the hot stove. Draft another family member to stay on top of the garbage and empty cans as they get filled. By staying on top of things, you'll be less likely to be saddled with a grand mess the day after Christmas. Consider it the ultimate Christmas present... to yourself.