The holidays have a way of making us see our homes differently.

Suddenly, every space is working overtime. The front door opens and closes constantly. Boots pile up. Coats get tossed over chairs. The kitchen becomes the heart of everything—food, conversation, late-night snacks, and early-morning coffee. Living rooms fill with people, laughter, wrapping paper, and memories.

This season reminds us that homes aren’t just places we live—they’re places where life happens.

At Mr. Clean Fix, we see it all year long, but especially during the holidays. Homes become gathering spaces, safe places, and sometimes chaotic places. And that’s okay. A lived-in home is a loved home.

Christmas has a way of highlighting what works well and what could use a little help. Drafty doors feel colder. Tight entryways feel tighter. Storage suddenly feels non-existent. But at the same time, warmth shows up in unexpected ways—in shared meals, in people squeezed onto couches, in the quiet moments once the house finally settles.

Your home doesn’t have to be perfect to be meaningful. It just has to support the way you live.

Thoughtful spaces make a difference—not because they’re trendy, but because they make room for connection. A welcoming entryway, a kitchen that flows, a living room that invites people to stay a little longer. These aren’t luxuries; they’re the backdrop to your traditions.

As the year comes to a close, we’re grateful. Grateful for the homes we’ve worked in, the families we’ve met, and the trust our clients place in us. We’re grateful for spaces that tell stories—especially this time of year.

From our family to yours, we hope your home is filled with warmth, comfort, and moments worth remembering this Christmas.

It’s officially December — 25 days until Christmas and 31 days until 2026.
The holiday countdown has begun, and so has the decorating frenzy.

Whether you’re going full-Clark-Griswold or keeping it simple with warm white string lights, outdoor electrical safety matters. A few smart choices now can save you from tripped breakers, damaged wiring, or fire hazards (and keep the magic glowing all month long).

Here’s how to deck the halls safely this season.

✨ 1. Choose the Right Lights for Outdoors

Indoor lights aren’t designed to handle moisture, wind, or freezing temperatures.

Look for:

• UL-rated outdoor or indoor/outdoor lights

• Waterproof extension cords

• Weatherproof connectors

If you’re unsure, check the tag near the plug — it’ll tell you.

🔌 2. Use GFCI Outlets Only

Any outdoor lighting plug should go into a GFCI outlet (the kind with a reset/test button).
These outlets cut power instantly if moisture or a short occurs — a must in winter weather.

If your exterior outlets aren’t GFCI, it’s time to upgrade.

🎅 3. Don’t Overload Your Circuits

Holiday cheer is great.
Holiday breaker trips? Not so much.

Keep these rules in mind:

• Use LED lights — lower power + brighter + safer

• Avoid running multiple large decorations on the same outlet

• If lights flicker or cords feel warm, unplug and redistribute

Remember: even LEDs add up when you’re decorating the whole house.

🌧️ 4. Weatherproof Every Connection

Rain, sleet, snow — December brings it all.
Protect your electrical setup by:

• Elevating plugs off the ground

• Using cord domes or weatherproof covers

• Keeping connections sheltered under eaves when possible

Moisture is the #1 cause of holiday electrical failures.

🪜 5. Ladder Safety: Don’t Become a Holiday Statistic

If you’re climbing on ladders to hang lights:

• Have someone hold the base

• Never lean too far to the sides

• Only use ladders rated for outdoor use

• Keep ladders away from icy ground

Every year, ERs fill with “just putting up the lights real quick” injuries.

Be smarter than that.

🌲 6. Secure Your Lights Against Wind

December winds love to yank lights off gutters.

Use:

• Plastic light clips (never metal staples)

• Zip ties

• Gutter-specific clips for a clean, safe look

A securely installed display survives storms—and looks better.

🔥 7. Inspect Older Decorations

If you reuse lights every year, check for:

• Brittle cords

• Cracked insulation

• Loose bulbs

• Damaged plugs

If something looks questionable, upgrade.
Holiday lights are cheap; electrical fires are not.

💡 8. Add Smart Timers for Safety & Convenience

Timers save energy and prevent overheating from lights staying on all night.

Bonus: they make your home look lived-in, even when you’re away visiting family.