Taking down the holidays is a lot less fun than putting them up, and how you pack decorations decides whether next year starts with tangled lights and broken ornaments or a few labeled boxes. This guide explains how to store Christmas decorations so they last: ornaments, lights, the tree, wreaths, garlands and fragile pieces, plus where to keep everything and how to label it.
Step 1: Sort Before You Pack
- Toss broken ornaments and lights that no longer work.
- Donate decorations you didn't use this year.
- Group what's left by category: ornaments, lights, tree, wreaths and garlands, tabletop decor, outdoor decor, linens, gift wrap.
- Make a note of anything to replace next year.
Storage Solutions by Item
| Item | Best storage |
|---|---|
| Glass and heirloom ornaments | Divided ornament boxes, each wrapped in acid-free tissue |
| Shatterproof ornaments | Plastic bins with dividers or egg cartons |
| String lights | Wound around cardboard or a light reel |
| Artificial tree | A tree storage bag or the original box |
| Wreaths | A wreath box or bag, hung or stored flat |
| Garland | Loosely coiled in a bin, or wrapped around a pool noodle |
| Tabletop decor and figurines | Wrapped individually in a sturdy bin |
| Holiday linens | Clean and folded in a drawer or fabric bin |
| Gift wrap | An upright wrapping paper bin or a hanging organizer |
How to Store Ornaments
- Remove hooks and keep them together in a small bag.
- Wrap fragile and sentimental ornaments in acid-free tissue paper.
- Store them in divided ornament boxes, one per compartment.
- Put heavier ornaments at the bottom and light ones on top.
- Keep children's handmade ornaments in their own labeled box.
Cardboard egg cartons and plastic cups glued into a shallow box make good budget dividers for small ornaments.
How to Store Christmas Lights
- Test each strand while it's still out and toss or label broken ones.
- Wind each strand around a piece of cardboard, a light reel or a hanger, starting with the plug end.
- Tape the plug end in place and label the length and where it was used ("Porch railing, 25 ft").
- Store reels upright in a bin so they don't tangle.
How to Store an Artificial Tree
- Clean off dust and debris before packing.
- Fold branches up and secure sections with soft straps.
- Use a heavy-duty tree bag; it's easier than forcing it back into the original box.
- Store it flat or upright where it won't be crushed.
Wreaths and Garlands
Wreaths keep their shape best in a round wreath box or hung on a hook inside a bag. Coil garland loosely; wrapping it around a pool noodle or cardboard tube stops tangles and crushing.
Where to Store Christmas Decorations
| Location | Good for | Watch out for |
|---|---|---|
| Closet or guest room cabinet | Fragile ornaments, linens, candles | Space; use shelves and bins |
| Under-stair storage | Bins and the tree | Label so you can reach the right box |
| Garage | Outdoor decor, the tree | Temperature swings, damp and pests |
| Attic | Sturdy, non-fragile items | Heat can melt candles and damage glass ornaments and adhesives |
| Basement | Sealed plastic bins | Moisture and mildew; keep bins off the floor |
A tall cabinet or spare wardrobe keeps holiday bins dust-free and easy to reach. The Tela Compact Wardrobe (77.1" H × 31.5" W × 23.6" D) has closed cabinet space with a 44 lbs shelf capacity and integrated drawers for linens and gift wrap. The Pantry Cabinet with Rolling Storage Cart (92.5" H × 47.2" W) combines cabinets, drawers, open shelving and a rolling cart, which is handy for wrapping supplies. See our under-stairs storage ideas and hidden storage ideas.
Label Everything
- Use clear bins so you can see what's inside.
- Label each bin by room and contents ("Living room: mantel garland, stockings").
- Color-code lids: red for indoor, green for outdoor, for example.
- Pack a "first box" with hooks, extension cords, scissors, a tree skirt and light clips, so setup starts fast next year.
Other Tips
- Pack candles separately in a cool place so they don't melt or warp.
- Wash table linens before storing so stains don't set.
- Photograph your mantel or tree setup before taking it down, for next year.
- Keep a small inventory list on your phone.
For next season, see our Christmas decorating ideas, Christmas tree decorating ideas and Christmas mantel decor.
FAQ
What is the best way to store Christmas ornaments?
Wrap fragile ornaments in acid-free tissue and store them in divided ornament boxes, heavier pieces at the bottom.
How do you store Christmas lights without tangling?
Wind each strand around cardboard or a light reel, tape the plug end, label it and store reels upright.
Is it okay to store Christmas decorations in the attic?
For sturdy items, yes. Heat can damage candles, glass ornaments and adhesives, so keep those in a closet or cabinet.
How do you store a wreath?
In a round wreath box or bag, hung on a hook or stored flat so it keeps its shape.