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| Label and protect your Christmas décor. |
The holidays seem to go by too fast! Now it’s time to un-trim the tree and un-deck the halls. Packing away Christmas is much less exciting than decorating for the season. Storage solutions and a little organization can make this unhappy chore easier and quicker. Proper storage helps ensure your favorite holiday items will last longer and makes it easier to unpack your decor next year.
Lights
Wind light strands on a spool or piece of cardboard for storage. Make sure to label the strands with where you used them and how long the strand is. Having that information will make next year’s decorating easier. Also, consider purchasing insulated bags for storing lights to protect them from dust and breakage.
The Tree
Taking down the tree is a messy job. Artificial trees are heavy and it’s time consuming to dismantle them. A real tree will probably be shedding needles everywhere by the end of December. You can make either job easier with a bit of ingenuity.
Consider a rolling case for artificial-tree storage. It makes it easier to get the tree back into basement, attic or garage. Some styles can accommodate a full-size tree without taking it apart. How nice is that?
Reduce the mess with a real tree by replacing the tree skirt with a large sheet or drop cloth before you start removing decorations. Once all lights and ornaments have been removed, use a turkey baster to remove any water still in the stand. Spread out the sheet and have someone help you lay the tree down—stand and all. Bundle the whole thing up and carry it outside. Remove the stand and carry the tree to the curb for pickup.
Storage
Add more years of life to your décor with a crush-proof wreath storage case and a divided ornament chest. If you are purchasing new containers this year, make sure they will work with your storage space. Look for containers that stack, hang or are slim enough to slide under a bed. Good-quality holiday storage containers really are worth the investment if you have room for them. It’s a good idea to label each container. You also may want to include photos or notes in the container of where and how décor was arranged.
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