Enjoy a stress-free season next year by avoiding these holiday storage slip-ups.
Kelsey Hansen
Decorating for Christmas is similar to preparing for a vacation.
Like packing, its exciting to decorate.
Credit:Kelsey Hansen
But when the tripor, in this case, when the holiday is overputting everything awayfeels daunting.
The key toavoiding tangled string lightsis to implement a solid organization system and steer clear of making criticalstorage mistakes.
Putting putting away Christmas decorations becomes a less daunting task when you have a solid plan.
Additionally, youll be able to rest knowing thatfragile or sentimental pieceswill stay intact for years to come.
Take note of these common holiday decor storage mistakes, along with practical tips on what to do instead.
The safer solution is to use durable, stackable totes with lids.
You may also want to look for containers created with compartments or dividers, such as anornament organizer.
Whatever containers you choose, remember that they should be made of a material designed for long-term storage.
The same applies to holiday decor.
For example, combining indoor andoutdoor decorationsin the same container can make your otherwise clean indoor items dirty.
Secure the ends ofChristmas lightswith cable ties before adding them to a protective container to protect the bulbs.
Being Careless with Fragile Items
Small light bulbs arent the only delicate decor item to consider when packing away.
Dropping them into a bin without cushioning is a surefire way to find them broken next year.
you could even use what you have, such as stockings or holiday-themed dish towels, for protection.
Use special organizers, such astree storage bagsor wreath boxes, to keep them in top condition.
To avoid that, wipe down any visibly dirty decorations with a clean, damp cloth.
Ensure everything is completely dry before storing to prevent mold and mildew growth.
The problem arises when these areas are subjected to fluctuating temperatures andhumidity levels, especially if theyre extreme.
These conditions can cause plastic to warp, colorful fabrics to fade, and mold and mildew to grow.
But if it hasnt been made clear by now, rushing through the process isnt doing you any favors.
The last step is to label each container or organizer, so its unmistakable next year.
