A Guide to Storing Holiday Lights, Ornaments, and Decorations Safely
Packing away holiday decorations doesn’t have to be a hassle. Whether it’s cherished ornaments, twinkling lights, or festive yard displays, proper storage is essential to preserving their quality and making next year’s decorating hassle-free. Follow these practical tips to keep your decorations safe, organized, and ready for the holidays.
1. Clean and Inspect Your Decorations
Before storing your decorations, take time to clean and inspect each item:
- Remove Dirt and Dust: Wipe down ornaments, garlands, and wreaths to prevent grime from settling over time.
- Inspect Lights and Electronics: Look for frayed wires, broken bulbs, or rusted connectors. Test all lights before packing them away.
- Dry Thoroughly: Moisture can lead to mold or rust, so make sure everything is completely dry.
Proper cleaning not only keeps your decorations looking their best but also extends their lifespan. For more detailed preparation tips, visit our Storage & Packing Tips page.
2. Use the Right Storage Containers
Investing in high-quality storage containers protects your decorations and keeps them organized:
- Clear Plastic Bins: Durable, stackable, and easy to identify without opening.
- Ornament Boxes: Protect fragile ornaments with boxes designed with dividers or compartments.
- Protective Wrapping: Use bubble wrap, tissue paper, or reusable fabric to cushion breakables.
For delicate or valuable decorations, consider a climate-controlled storage unit to shield them from temperature and humidity changes.
3. Tame the Tangle of Holiday Lights
Holiday lights are notorious for getting tangled, but a little preparation can save you headaches next year:
- Wrap Around Reels or Cardboard: Prevent tangling by neatly coiling lights around reels, sturdy cardboard, or even empty paper towel rolls.
- Label Your Light Sets: Keep track of different types of lights (indoor, outdoor, or specialty) by labeling storage bins or bags.
- Store Separately from Other Electronics: Remove batteries from any light-up decorations to prevent corrosion.
Check out our Personal Storage options if you need a safe, accessible place to keep all your holiday lights and electronics.
4. Protect Fabrics and Soft Items
Fabrics like tree skirts, stockings, and festive tablecloths require special care to avoid damage:
- Wash Before Storing: Clean all fabric items to remove dirt and stains that could set over time.
- Vacuum-Sealed Bags: Save space and protect from pests with vacuum-sealed storage.
- Garment Bags: Hang larger items like costumes or oversized linens in garment bags to prevent wrinkles.
5. Organize Outdoor Decorations
Larger items like inflatables, yard displays, and outdoor lights need extra care:
- Deflate and Fold Inflatables Properly: Ensure they’re clean and dry before storing in a labeled bin or bag.
- Disassemble Yard Displays: Take apart larger items to save space and prevent damage.
- Store Cables Separately: Coil extension cords and cables, labeling them for easy reassembly next season.
If your outdoor décor is extensive, consider consulting businesses in your area that offer professional decoration services for advice or assistance with setup and takedown.
6. Label and Categorize for Next Year
A little organization now will save you time and stress later:
- Label by Category: Separate bins into categories like “Tree Ornaments,” “Lights,” and “Outdoor Décor.”
- Color-Code Bins: Assign specific colors to holiday items (e.g., red and green for Christmas) to quickly identify what’s inside.
- Use Shelving for Easy Access: Store frequently used items in the front and less-used décor in the back of your storage unit.
7. Consider Seasonal Storage Solutions
If your decorations are taking over your home, consider renting a self-storage unit to keep everything organized and out of the way:
- Seasonal Storage: Keep decorations safe without cluttering your home.
- Climate-Controlled Units: Ideal for fragile or temperature-sensitive items.
- Security Features: Protect valuable items with gated access, surveillance cameras, and other security features offered at MyPlace Self Storage.
Need to store large amounts of décor for personal or business use? Explore our Business Storage solutions for spacious and secure options.
Protect Your Decorations with MyPlace Self Storage Storing holiday decorations properly helps preserve their quality and saves you time next season. With a self-storage unit from MyPlace Self Storage, you can enjoy the peace of mind that comes from knowing your belongings are safe, secure, and organized.
Find your nearest MyPlace Self Storage location today to make storing your decorations easy and stress-free!