The holidays may be over, but the work isn’t quite done yet! Properly storing your Christmas decorations is essential to ensure they stay in top condition for next year. Follow these tips to take down and pack your holiday décor like a professional:

1. Organize & Categorize

First things first: Before you even think about packing, take the time to organize and categorize your decorations. This simple step will save you time and headaches next year.

• Sort by type: Separate ornaments, lights, garlands, wreaths, and other décor items.
• Purge broken or unwanted items: Donate or discard any decorations that are broken, damaged, or no longer spark joy.
• Create an inventory: Make a list of your decorations and their storage locations to make unpacking a breeze next December.

2. Safe Storage Solutions

Next, choose the right storage solutions to protect your decorations:

• Ornaments: Wrap fragile ornaments individually in tissue paper or bubble wrap. Store them in sturdy ornament boxes with dividers to prevent breakage.
• Lights: Prevent tangles by wrapping lights around cardboard tubes or using specialized light storage reels.
• Wreaths and Garlands: Store wreaths and garlands in breathable bags or boxes to prevent moisture buildup and damage.
• Artificial Trees: Disassemble your artificial tree and store it in its original box or a sturdy storage bag.

3. Proper Packing Techniques

Now it’s time to pack those decorations like a pro:

• Label everything: Clearly label each box or container with its contents.
• Use sturdy boxes: Choose boxes strong enough to hold the weight of your decorations.
• Fill empty spaces: Use packing peanuts, bubble wrap, or crumpled paper to fill empty spaces and prevent items from shifting.
• Stack carefully: Stack heavier boxes on the bottom and lighter boxes on top.

4. Strategic Storage Location

Where you store your decorations matters!

• Choose a cool, dry place: Avoid attics, garages, or basements with extreme temperatures or moisture.
• Keep decorations off the floor: Store boxes on shelves or pallets to prevent damage from moisture or pests.

5. Consider Professional Help

Feeling overwhelmed? If you have a large collection of decorations or limited storage space, consider hiring a professional Christmas decorating company (like us!) to handle the takedown and storage for you. This saves time and hassle while ensuring your decorations are properly cared for.

Bonus Tip for Arizona Residents:

Protect from the heat! Arizona’s hot climate can be tough on decorations. Consider storing them in a climate-controlled environment to prevent damage from heat and dryness.

By following these tips, you can ensure your Christmas decorations stay in pristine condition and are ready to bring joy and sparkle to your home or business next holiday season.