by Aimee Coulter

Created on: December 11, 2008

Nothing is more disheartening than getting the Christmas decorations out of storage only to find a favorite ornament has been broken. More than likely, the broken ornament is either expensive, a favorite, or loaded with sentimental value. Crying over broken memories is no way to start the holiday. By taking extra time and care at the end of the season, a merry beginning to the next Christmas is more likely.

Location:

When storing seasonal items, the first consideration must be location. Where are the Christmas decorations to be stored: attic, garage, inside closet, outdoor shed? Will the storage location protect from heat and damp? Location is the main factor in determining the type of container needed.

Containers:

Storing Christmas decorations does not have to be expensive. Many things can be used as storage containers. Using boxes, buckets and barrels already available around the house helps cut back on the expense of storing Christmas decorations. Save the larger boxes from Christmas presents as they can be recycled into storage boxes. Used wrapping and tissue paper are perfect for packing away fragile ornaments.

Cardboard boxes are an ideal option for inside and attic storage locations where dampness is not a factor. If you must purchase them, cardboard containers are relatively inexpensive. A variety of sizes make packing odd sized decorative items easy. Compartmentalizing boxes can be done by cutting two cardboard strips both the length and width of your box. Avoid placing too many items into one box as it will have to be lifted up onto a shelf or carried up to the attic.

Although plastic tubs with lids will work for storing items anywhere, they are ideal for outdoor storage locations such as garages and sheds. These sealed containers protect Christmas decorations not only from dampness, but also prevent spiders and mice from using them as homes during the off season. Plastic tubs are more costly than cardboard, but should be considered an investment as they will not have to be replaced for many years, if ever.

Metal containers are another option for both indoor and outdoor storage locations. Candy and popcorn tins are usually in abundance at the end of the holidays. They are perfect for layering ornaments and tissue paper. Large, metal barrels are perfect for storing outdoor lights and yard art. When fitted with lids, they protect from both weather and mice.

Keep in mind that no container will protect your Christmas decorations from heat. Candles are especially susceptible to high temperatures. Items of this nature should be stored in an indoor location to keep them from melting and becoming disfigured.

Organization and Ease of Access:

When putting away Christmas decorations, store like with like. Placing all breakable ornaments in one box keeps them safe and easy to find. Utilize fabric decorations as padding to prevent breakage.

Wind lights up on empty paper towel rolls or cardboard to keep them from tangling. Then pack all of the spools together. Place wreaths and greenery in large trash bags to keep the dust off. Pack them in a container and use them to cushion breakable tabletop items placed on top.

After like items have been packed together, organize them into larger containers for storage. Place them into the container in the reverse order of how they will be removed the following year. Decorating next year will be much easier when the lights for the tree are on top of the ornaments. The extra time and effort spent putting away Christmas decorations this year will lead to an easier start of the Christmas season next year.

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