by Linda G. Hull

Created on: December 17, 2008   Last Updated: November 30, 2011

Christmas is my favorite time of year, and I love all the decorations that we’ve accumulated through the years.  It is amazing to me so many have survived our many moves and sometimes haphazard storage solutions.  Whatever was handy was my motto!  Big mistake!  I learned my lesson when an heirloom wreath was vandalized by mice. 

My mother’s nut and pine cone wreath was particularly special after her death.  I remember the love, time, energy, and yes, sweat she put into it.  It was her very first and her last.  Imagine my horror when I opened the plastic garbage bag only to discover every nut had been torn open leaving gaping holes all over the wreath.  Fortunately a little creativity salvaged the mess.  I simply added a tiny mouse amidst the pine cones after removing the worst of the nut shells. 

I always thought it was so convenient to use plastic bags and cardboard boxes to hold my collectible ornaments and Christmas treasures.  Being short of money after the holidays, I didn’t see the need in purchasing red and green plastic storage bins, or those fancy divider boxes made especially for ornaments. 

After my horrible experience with insect and mice invasions, I realized it was better to spend a little extra for effective Christmas storage solutions.  Cardboard boxes just aren’t good enough I discovered after our basement flooded.  Mold and moisture ruined cardboard boxes that didn’t even get wet. 

Experience has taught me the best storage solution is plastic storage boxes in a variety of sizes and shapes.  I prefer the sturdy Sterilite version with stackable lids and easy grip handles.  These are sturdy enough to protect against breakage. Since they all look alike, be sure to label your storage containers with a permanent marker.  Even placing an inventory sheet on top helps identify the contents more easily.

Collectible ornaments are best stored in their original boxes.  Before storing, ornaments should be lightly dusted and ornament hooks removed to prevent scratching.  Ornaments without a box should be packed in an acid-free ornament box separated by dividers.  The Ultimate Christmas Storage shop carries acid-free cardboard boxes and archival supplies.  One of the most useful items is a vinyl storage bag that will hold their ornament boxes.

Beautiful silk flower Christmas arrangements provide a real challenge. 

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