How To Store Your Fake Christmas Tree To Make Decorating Even Easier Next Year
Putting away the Christmas tree always feels like the very last chore of the season. By then, some of the festive cheer is gone and patience is thinner. It’s tempting to just stuff the tree back into a box and forget about it. But taking a little extra care now can make next year’s decorating faster and more fun. Think of this as a small gift to your future self when December rolls around again in twelve months.
Fluff And Clean The Branches Before Storing
Before packing the tree away, take a few minutes to shake out loose needles and dust. Wipe branches gently with a dry cloth or soft duster. This prevents dirt from settling in and saves you from having to clean it again next year. It also helps branches hold their shape better in storage. Clean branches mean less work overall and less mess when you pull the tree out again.
Wrap Sections To Protect Shape And Needles
Tree branches bend and tangle easily when stored loosely. Wrapping each section with plastic wrap, an old sheet, or stretch wrap keeps everything contained and protected. This prevents branches from getting crushed and makes the tree easier to put back together later. When branches keep their shape, fluffing goes much faster too. It’s one extra step now that saves time and frustration next December.
Use A Tree Storage Bag Instead Of The Original Box
Those original cardboard boxes that the tree came in rarely survive more than a season or two. A tree storage bag with handles is a much better choice. It’s sturdier, easier to carry, and protects the tree from moisture and pests. Clear bags also let you see what’s inside without opening them. Investing in a proper storage bag keeps your tree cleaner and makes moving it much easier year after year.
Label Everything Clearly For Easy Setup
If your tree comes in multiple sections, labeling them saves you a ton of guesswork later. A simple piece of tape marked top, middle, or bottom makes assembly quicker. You can also label the storage bag with the tree size or room it belongs in. When everything is clearly marked, decorating becomes a smooth routine instead of a puzzle you have to solve again every year.
Store Lights On The Tree When Possible
If your tree is pre-lit or you use the same lights every year, consider leaving them on the tree. Gently wrap them around the branches before putting them in storage. This prevents tangles and saves a huge amount of time next year. If you remove lights, store them in labeled bags or reels. Either way, organized lights make decorating far more enjoyable and less tangled.
Choose The Right Storage Spot In Your Home
Where you store your tree matters more than you think. Avoid damp basements or hot attics if you can. Moisture can cause damage and heat can warp branches. A cool, dry area like a closet or garage shelf works best. Keeping the tree off the floor also helps protect it from dust and pests. A good storage spot keeps the tree looking new for longer.
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Storing your fake Christmas tree the right way doesn’t take much extra time, but it pays off in a big way. Next year, setup will be faster, cleaner, and far less stressful. When decorating feels easy, the season starts on a happier note for everyone. Sometimes the best holiday prep happens the year before.
Bliss Donahue-Power
