HOW TO STORE CHRISTMAS LIGHTS, TREES, AND ORNAMENTS
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As the holiday season comes to an end, it’s time to pack up your Christmas and seasonal décor for another year. Proper storage is essential for keeping everything organized and in good condition, whether looking for a way to store Christmas lights without tangles, protecting your Christmas tree and wreaths, or neatly organizing ornaments and gift supplies.
Living in a small townhouse has taught me to be smart about storage, and I’ll be sharing the practical methods and products I use to make the most of our limited space. With the right strategies, you can make the process efficient and ensure your holiday decorations stay in great shape for years to come.
How to Store Gift Wrapping Supplies and Wrapping Paper
Storing wrapping paper can be a challenge, especially if you want to keep rolls from getting crushed or unraveling. If you're working with a small space like I am, a hanging gift wrapping organizer is a great solution.
I use this dual-sided organizer in my own closet to keep everything neatly contained and easy to access year-round. It holds wrapping paper rolls up to 30 inches long and has clear compartments for ribbons, cards, bows, and other gift-wrapping supplies. I loved it so much, I got two! By hanging it on inside a closet, you can maximize vertical space while keeping all your wrapping essentials organized and protected for next season.
How to Store Christmas Lights
Properly storing Christmas lights for next year is the key to avoiding a tangled mess the next time you're decorating for the holidays. I started using Christmas light storage wheels, and they’ve been a game changer for keeping my lights organized. You basically wrap one end of the lights by using the handy rotating handle and it makes packing up your light strands a breeze.
This set comes with four reels that neatly wind up your string lights, preventing knots and damage during storage. The reels fit perfectly into a sturdy storage bin or container, making it easy to stack and store in a closet or garage. Not only does this system save time when decorating next year, but it also helps extend the life of my strand lights by keeping them protected and untangled.
How to Store Artificial Christmas Trees
After years of trying to squeeze our Christmas tree back into its original box—which finally broke—I switched to a Christmas Tree Storage Bag, and it’s been a huge improvement. This bag is designed to hold artificial trees up to 7.5 feet tall (it also comes in a larger sized for larger trees) and protects them from dust, moisture, and damage.
What I love most is that it actually takes up less space than the bulky, worn-out box we used before. The durable handles make it easy to carry, and the zippered closure keeps everything secure during storage. It’s a simple, space-saving solution that keeps our tree in great shape and makes packing it away so much easier.
By the way, if Christmas trees aren't your thing, check out my faux olive tree that I decorated for Christmas.
How to store Christmas Ornaments
For years, I stored my Christmas ornaments loose in a bin, wrapped in tissue paper, paper towels, and even ziplock bags, hoping every year that none of them had broken. They also constantly got tangled, so switching to a Christmas ornaments organizer was long overdue. It has 24 individual compartments with adjustable dividers that have slits, which keeps each ornament separated and protected from damage. The sturdy structure and flip-top lid make it easy to stack and store, while the compact cube design saves space.
How to Store a Christmas Wreath
Storing my Christmas wreath used to be tricky—I’d try to fit it into a random box or bin, only to find it flattened or dusty next Christmas. Now, I use a wreath storage bag, which is specifically designed to keep wreaths up to 24 inches round protected and in perfect shape. The zippered closure keeps dust and moisture out, while the sturdy handles make it easy to carry and store. I simply hang or stack the bag in my storage closet, and my wreath stays clean, intact, and ready to hang for next season. It’s a simple solution that keeps my holiday décor looking fresh year after year.
More Lowe's Finds
As always, I didn't stop there. I've rounded up the best affordable Lowe's hidden gems that I found while I was digging around on the website. I found the Amazon Fire TV stick (on sale!), wicker barstools, a metal farmhouse bed, an arched sideboard cabinet, a rustic metal vanity light, a coastal scalloped rug, a cloud sofa, gold pendant lights, and so much more.
Wrapping Up My Holiday Storage Tips
Storing your holiday decor doesn’t have to be stressful or time-consuming. With the right tools—like dedicated storage bags, bins, Christmas light holders, and organizers—you can keep your Christmas lights, ornaments, wreaths, and Christmas tree safe and organized.
Living in a small townhouse has taught me the importance of maximizing space and choosing storage solutions that are both practical and efficient. By investing in a few simple products, you’ll not only make the post-holiday clean-up easier but also save yourself time and frustration when the next holiday season rolls around.
Thanks for finding it with me.
Still want more? Check out the most stunning fluted bathroom vanity that I also found at Lowe's.
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Holiday Light Storage FAQs
1. What is the best way to store Christmas lights?
When it comes to finding the best ways to store your Christmas lights, there are several effective methods. One popular way to store Christmas lights is by using a Christmas light wheel like I did above or wrapping the lights around a piece of cardboard. This method keeps your Christmas lights organized and prevents tangling for next year. Alternatively, using a storage bin or bin with dividers can also help keep your lights neat and tangle-free.
2. How can I keep my Christmas lights from tangling?
To avoid the dreaded tangled mess that often occurs with holiday lights and twinkle lights, wind your lights to keep them safe. Using a reel or a clothes hanger can be very effective; simply wrap your lights around it securely. Another effective way to keep your lights together and untangled is to wrap the lights around a hanger or use a hook, keeping both ends of the light string accessible. This can significantly reduce the time spent untangling your lights when it's time to decorate again.
3. What materials should I use for storing holiday lights?
When storing holiday lights, it's essential to choose suitable materials that protect the lights and prevent damage. Use sturdy storage bins, a storage wheel, or boxes to keep the lights safe from moisture and dust. Avoid using plastic bags, as they can trap moisture and potentially damage the bulbs. If you're storing outdoor Christmas lights, ensure the storage solution is weather-resistant.
4. Can I store my Christmas lights in the closet?
Yes, you can definitely store your Christmas lights in the closet. In fact, a closet or attic can be an ideal location because it keeps the lights out of sight and protects the cord from environmental elements. Even better, use a light storage reel and then put them in a bin so you can easily access them next year.
