Smart & Stress-Free Ways to Store All Your Christmas Décor
(Indoor + Outdoor Tips That’ll Make Next Year Easier)
Packing away Christmas décor doesn’t have to feel like solving a puzzle with tangled lights and mystery bins. With a little strategy now, you’ll save time, space, and frustration next holiday season. Here’s a practical, room-by-room guide to storing everything—from fragile ornaments to outdoor inflatables—so it all comes out just as merry next year.
1. Start With a Clean, Intentional Reset
Before anything goes into storage:
Declutter first: If it didn’t get used this year or no longer fits your style, donate it.
Clean everything: Wipe down décor, wash tree skirts, and let outdoor items fully dry to prevent mold or rust.
Sort by category: Ornaments, lights, garlands, outdoor décor, etc. This makes packing (and unpacking) smoother.
2. Ornaments: Protect the Fragile Favorites
Use ornament storage boxes with dividers for glass or sentimental pieces.
No specialty box? Egg cartons, cardboard drink trays, or plastic cups inside bins work surprisingly well.
Wrap delicate ornaments in acid-free tissue paper—avoid newspaper, which can transfer ink.
Label boxes clearly: “Tree – Glass,” “Tree – Kids Ornaments,” etc.
3. Lights: Beat the Tangle Once and for All
Wrap lights around reels, cardboard, or even old hangers.
Store indoor and outdoor lights separately.
Label by location: “Front Porch,” “Tree Lights,” “Bushes.”
Toss burnt-out strands now so you’re not troubleshooting next December.
4. Tree Storage: Artificial or Real Accessories
Artificial trees: Use the original box if possible, or invest in a tree storage bag with wheels.
Tree skirts & collars: Fold fabric skirts with cedar sachets; wipe down metal collars before storing.
Tree toppers: Store in sturdy boxes labeled “Fragile – Tree Top.”
5. Wreaths, Garlands & Florals
Store wreaths in round containers or hang them in garment bags to keep their shape.
Coil garlands loosely—don’t compress them.
Keep greenery away from heat sources to prevent fading.
6. Outdoor Décor: Weather-Proofing Matters
Clean off dirt, snow residue, or pine needles before storing.
Fully dry inflatables and fabric items to avoid mildew.
Use heavy-duty, weather-resistant bins with tight lids.
Store stakes, extension cords, and hardware in a labeled zip bag inside the same bin.
7. Candles, Linens & Holiday Kitchen Items
Store candles upright in divided bins; avoid extreme heat areas.
Fold table runners, stockings, and linens with lavender or cedar to keep them fresh.
Group kitchen décor (holiday plates, mugs, serving trays) together so entertaining is easy next year.
8. Label Like a Pro (Your Future Self Will Thank You)
Label all sides and the top of bins.
Include location + contents: “Living Room – Mantel Décor.”
Consider a simple inventory note inside the bin for larger collections.
9. Choose the Right Storage Spot
Best places: closets, finished basements, temperature-controlled garages.
Avoid attics with extreme heat or damp crawl spaces.
Stack heavier bins on the bottom, lighter and fragile items on top.
10. One Bonus Tip: Create a “First Out” Box
Pack one small bin labeled “Holiday Essentials” with lights, stockings, and key décor. When next season arrives, you can decorate immediately—no digging required.
A Little Effort Now = A Happier Holiday Later
Organized storage means less stress, fewer broken ornaments, and more time enjoying the season next year. Put on one last holiday playlist, take it step by step, and future-you will be very grateful 🎄
