At this time of year, with holiday decorations taking up lots of space, it’s especially important that we rid our homes of junk mail and catalogs.

There are a couple of steps we can take to proactively prevent pile-ups and save more trees: calling or emailing the senders; asking to opt out of future mailings, and continually tossing junk paper into recyclable bins as soon as it arrives in our mailboxes. Plus, immediately filing our bills and other important mail also helps prevent paper pyramids from accumulating.

Which reminds me: Why is it that so many people have unattractive wastebaskets in their living rooms and master bedrooms? Yes, Rubbermaid pails are ideal for kitchens where practicality and functionality rule, but do they belong elsewhere in otherwise lovely homes? I think not. Perhaps one could also make a convincing case for having something basic in the bathroom but let’s draw the line there. Puhleease.

There are so many spiffy wastebaskets available at all price points – from the $13.99 Neu Home Rose Wire Wastebasket at Sears to the $159.99 Comforthouse.com faux croc pail – that there is no reason not to have an attractive receptacle wherever it’s needed. Another fine option: the Organize.com waste can in Bamboo for $39.99. Come to think of it: Do you need a fresh (and clean!) holiday gift idea? How about giving someone on your list a stylish metal or wooden pail? Toss that around.

(Black leather wastebasket, top: $100 comforthouse.com)

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