How to Store Holiday Decorations

Taking down holiday decorations can feel like a mess waiting to happen. Lights tangle, ornaments break, and storage boxes overflow. Next year, the cycle repeats—unless everything gets packed the right way now. Good storage saves time and frustration. No more digging through piles of decorations or untangling endless strands of lights. A few smart tricks keep everything in perfect shape and easy to find when the holidays roll around again. Ready to store holiday decorations without the usual chaos? Follow this Hansen Bros. Moving & Storage Seattle guide to keep your ornaments safe and organized!

What to Keep and What to Toss

Before packing decorations, take a moment to go through everything. Storing broken or unused items takes up space and creates unnecessary clutter. Start by sorting through each box and deciding what stays and what goes.

Check for damaged items first. Broken ornaments, tangled lights with missing bulbs, and worn-out garlands are better off discarded or recycled. If an item has sentimental value but is too damaged to use, consider repurposing it into something new.

Unused decorations can be donated. Many charities, schools, and community centers accept holiday decorations in good condition. Instead of letting them collect dust in storage, they can bring joy to others. Once unnecessary items are removed, organizing what remains becomes much easier. Everything stored will be something worth keeping, making next year’s decorating process much smoother.

Choosing the Best Storage Containers

Not all storage containers are created equal. While it may seem easy to toss everything into any available box, the right storage solutions will keep decorations safe and organized:

• For fragile ornaments, use containers with individual compartments. Ornament storage boxes with dividers keep each piece protected from bumps and pressure. If a specialized box isn’t available, wrapping each ornament in tissue paper or bubble wrap and placing them in sturdy Seattle moving boxes works well.
• Artificial trees need proper storage too. Instead of struggling with their original flimsy boxes, use a tree storage bag. These bags are designed to protect branches and prevent dust buildup. If space allows, storing the tree in a designated closet or attic corner upright can prevent unnecessary bending.
• For holiday lights, avoid the tangled mess by using a simple wrapping method. Wrapping lights around a piece of cardboard, a plastic reel, or even an old clothes hanger keeps them neat and easy to unravel next season.

Stackable plastic bins with tight lids are ideal for general decorations. They protect against moisture, dust, and pests. Clear bins allow for easy identification, but if using opaque ones, label them clearly for quick access. In essence, if you properly store holiday decorations now, you’ll prevent frustration later.

Protecting Fragile Decorations

Delicate ornaments, figurines, and glass décor require extra care. Tossing them into a box without protection almost guarantees damage. Instead, take a few precautions to keep them in perfect condition. Start by wrapping each fragile item individually. Bubble wrap, tissue paper, and soft fabric like old socks or gloves work well for cushioning. Avoid wrapping in newspaper, as the ink can transfer onto decorations.

Egg cartons are a great option for small ornaments. Each compartment keeps the decorations separate and prevents movement. For larger breakable items, consider using divided storage boxes designed for glasses or stemware.

As expert Washington movers advise, avoid stacking heavy items on top of fragile ones. When filling storage bins, place the most delicate decorations on top or in separate boxes entirely. Clearly labeling boxes as “fragile” ensures they receive careful handling.

If possible, store fragile decorations in climate-controlled spaces. Extreme temperatures in attics, basements, or garages can cause materials to expand, crack, or become brittle over time. Keeping them in an interior closet or on a high shelf in a well-insulated area will help maintain their quality.

Store Holiday Lights Without the Tangled Mess

Dealing with tangled holiday lights is one of the biggest frustrations when decorating. A little extra effort during storage can save hours of detangling later. Before storing lights, test each strand to ensure they still work. Replace burnt-out bulbs and discard any strands with frayed wires. Storing faulty lights wastes space and creates unnecessary hassle next year.

A simple way to prevent tangling is by wrapping lights around a sturdy object. A piece of cardboard, a plastic reel, or even an old wrapping paper tube works well. Secure the ends with twist ties or rubber bands to keep everything in place.

For those with multiple sets of lights, storing each set separately prevents them from getting tangled together. Placing them in individual plastic bags or wrapping them in fabric keeps them organized.

Avoid stuffing lights into a small container where they can get compressed and tangled. A larger bin with ample space keeps them from knotting up. Labeling bins by light type or color as you store holiday decorations makes it easier to find the right set when decorating.

Practical Ways to Store Artificial Wreaths and Garlands

Artificial wreaths and garlands can lose their shape if not packed properly after your last-minute holiday relocation. Instead of cramming them into a box, using specialized storage options keeps them looking full and fresh.

Wreath storage bags or boxes prevent dust buildup and protect delicate decorations. Hanging wreaths in a closet or on hooks in a storage space is another great way to maintain their shape. If no specialized bag is available, wrapping them in plastic and hanging them on a hanger works well.

Garlands should be coiled loosely and stored in large bins or fabric bags. Avoid folding them tightly, as this can cause permanent creases or break delicate embellishments. If the garland contains small ornaments or decorations, wrapping it in tissue paper before storing adds an extra layer of protection. Keeping wreaths and garlands in a dry, temperature-controlled space ensures they remain in excellent condition for years to come.

The Best Way to Store Holiday Candles Without Damage

Candles add warmth to holiday décor, but improper storage can cause them to warp, crack, or even melt. Keeping them in good condition after holiday relocation to Seattle requires a few precautions.

Temperature fluctuations can ruin candles. Heat causes them to soften or melt, while extreme cold can make them brittle. A closet or cabinet in a climate-controlled room is the best option. Stacking candles without protection can cause them to fuse. Keep them separated using:

• Tissue paper or wax paper
• Individual plastic bags
• Bubble wrap for fragile or decorative candles

Laying candles flat increases the risk of warping. Storing them upright in a box or container keeps their shape intact. For extra protection, use a shoebox or small bin with dividers to prevent movement. Taking these simple steps ensures holiday candles stay in perfect condition for next year.

How to Store Wrapping Paper, Gift Bags, and Ribbons Efficiently

Holiday gift wrap supplies can take up unnecessary space if not stored properly. Wrapping paper rolls, gift bags, and ribbons needs a system to stay neat and accessible. Leaving rolls lying around leads to crushed or torn edges. Instead, store them upright in:

• A tall plastic bin with a lid
• A garment bag hung in a closet
• An under-bed storage box with dividers

Folding and stacking gift bags prevents creases and makes them easier to reuse. To store holiday decorations properly, place them in a large plastic storage bag or file them in a magazine holder. Tissue paper stays wrinkle-free when stored in a flat bin or accordion file. Tangled ribbons and squashed bows are frustrating. Keep them organized with:

• A plastic ribbon dispenser
• A hanging shoe organizer
• A divided craft box

Creating a dedicated gift wrap station saves time and eliminates clutter for future holidays. Without such an area, wrapping paper, ribbons, and gift bags can become scattered, leading to wasted time searching for materials and unnecessary clutter.

A Dedicated Holiday Storage Space Makes Life Easier

A well-organized storage system prevents the last-minute holiday rush of searching for decorations. Instead of scattering items throughout the house, designate a specific space for everything. Select a spot that is dry, temperature-controlled, and easily accessible. Ideal places include:

• A closet with shelving
• A spare room or storage cabinet
• A section of the basement (if it’s moisture-free)
• Under-bed storage for small items

Stacking bins on the floor can lead to crushed decorations and clutter. Installing shelves allows for easy access and better organization. Label each bin to avoid unnecessary digging. When stacking bins, place the heaviest ones at the bottom to prevent crushing fragile decorations. Keep lighter or frequently used items on top for easy access. A dedicated storage space streamlines holiday decorating and packing, making each season smoother.

Why Labeling Makes Everything Easier

Nothing slows down decorating more than searching through unmarked boxes. A simple labeling system eliminates guesswork and saves time. Use clear, bold labels on every storage bin. Writing down specific contents, such as “Red and Gold Ornaments” or “Outdoor Decorations,” makes it easier to find exactly what’s needed.

Color-coding bins by holiday or decoration type adds another level of organization. Using red bins for Christmas, orange for Halloween, and blue for general winter décor creates a visual system that simplifies storage. For even better organization, keeping a master list of stored items helps track everything. A simple notebook or digital document listing each bin’s contents ensures nothing gets forgotten or lost.

How to Protect Decorations from Moisture, Dust, and Pests

Improper storage exposes decorations to dust, moisture, and pests. Keeping them clean and damage-free requires a few preventative measures. Plastic bins with sealed lids protect against moisture and dust. If using cardboard boxes, line them with plastic bags to add an extra layer of protection.

Humidity can cause decorations to develop mold or odors. Placing silica gel packets inside storage bins absorbs excess moisture and keeps items fresh. Garages, basements, and attics can attract pests. Avoid storing decorations in areas prone to infestations. If necessary, take extra precautions by:

• Storing fabric decorations in vacuum-sealed bags
• Using peppermint or cedar sachets to deter rodents
• Avoiding edible decorations like popcorn garlands or gingerbread ornaments in storage bins

Taking these precautions prevents unpleasant surprises when unpacking next year. Why? Properly wrapping fragile ornaments keeps them intact and ready to use. Store holiday decorations in airtight bins to protect them from dust, moisture, and pests. Organizing lights and garlands neatly saves time and frustration when setting up. Finally, a well-labeled system ensures everything is easy to find, making holiday decorating simple and stress-free.

How to Plan for an Easy Unpacking Process Next Year

A little planning now makes setting up decorations easier next year. Instead of rushing through the packing process, take a few extra steps to ensure an easy unpacking experience. Before taking decorations down, snap a few pictures of how everything was arranged. Next year, use these photos as a reference for quick setup. Instead of guessing what’s inside each bin, use clear labels. Helpful labeling methods include:

• Large print labels with decoration categories
• Color-coded tape for different rooms or themes
• Numbered bins with a master list of contents

Think about which items are used first when decorating. Store frequently used decorations in bins that will be unpacked first. Less essential items can go toward the back of the storage area. A little extra effort now ensures next year’s decorating process is quick and stress-free.

Keep the Holiday Spirit Without the Clutter

Packing up to store holiday decorations truly doesn’t have to be frustrating. A few smart storage solutions keep everything organized, protected, and easy to find next year. Holiday items remain in great condition by decluttering first, choosing the right storage containers, and keeping fragile decorations safe.

Setting up a dedicated storage space and labeling everything eliminates the struggle of unpacking. With a little planning, next year’s decorating will be as simple as pulling out labeled bins and getting started—without the usual chaos.

Why Choose Us

History

Hansen Bros. Moving & Storage is locally owned and operated by the same family for four generations, since 1890. We have a well-established reputation for service quality and reliability with a high percentage of repeat household and commercial clients.

Professionalism

We’re a certified ProMover by the American Moving and Storage Association with A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau, voted “Best in Western Washington” in 2009 and from 2011 to 2016 by KING5. Our company is fully licensed and insured and member of WMC and AMSA.

Value

Hansen Bros. Moving & Storage provide free, no-obligation in-home estimate and competitive rates, including low minimum rates for shipments moving under 300 miles. We’ve set a refund policy for unused packing materials and three Puget Sound locations to help clients save on travel fee costs.