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Clever Hacks for Christmas Storage

The holiday season, a time of joy, laughter, and cherished traditions, inevitably comes to an end. As we bid farewell to twinkling lights, festive decorations, and heartwarming gatherings, the task of packing away these holiday treasures often looms large. But fear not, for with a little planning and organization, you can streamline the Christmas storage process and ensure your holiday cheer is ready to shine again next year. Whether you're celebrating the season in the bustling metropolis of New York City or the vibrant streets of New Orleans, these clever holiday storage hacks will help you save space and time and protect your decorations.

“Invest in a dedicated shelving unit for your holiday storage area; easy access to each bin without unstacking is important! This makes it easy to pack away those stragglers that you miss the first time through or decorations that tend to linger through the winter months (Snowmen don’t have to melt away because the December holidays are over!). Whether you prefer clear bins for easy visibility of contents or the clean look of matching bins, make sure to label each box clearly so you can quickly find what you need.” – Katie McAllister, Susquehanna Closet & Garage Design, York, PA

Ornament organization

To safeguard delicate ornaments, consider using egg cartons. Each ornament can be nestled in a separate cup, providing ample protection. For larger ornaments, plastic apple containers offer a sturdy and convenient Christmas storage solution.

To accommodate unique shapes and sizes, such as handmade ornaments or vintage treasures, glue plastic cups to a piece of cardboard that fits inside a storage bin. Fill the cups with your ornaments and secure the lid. This method ensures that each ornament has its designated space, minimizing the risk of damage.

‘On all of my trips I get a new ornament, something I started very young. I love my ornament organizer box. It keeps them all separate, safe, and not chipping. A few paper towels keep each padded as well. I’ve used an old feather pillow to protect and keep my Tiffany Santa safe in storage too.

Adding QR codes to all of your boxes is a game changer. It’s always helpful to pull up the code to see the photos you’ve added of what decor is in the box.” – Ryen Toft | Pro Organizer owner & founder, Simply Luxe Organizing

“Why not give those divided liquor boxes from your neighborhood store a new life by using them to organize your delicate ornaments? Just wrap each ornament in a bit of tissue paper and stack them neatly in the boxes. You'll find that liquor boxes are sturdier than regular cardboard boxes, making them perfect for safe, vertical storage. This not only optimizes your space but also keeps your decorations organized and well-protected!” – Jocelyn Kenner with See Your Way Clear, LLC

Once you’ve finished baking those delicious holiday cookies, don’t toss out the festive tins just yet! These sturdy containers can be repurposed to protect your delicate ornaments and small decor items.

“Set aside any small, sturdy gift boxes and holiday cookie tins you receive throughout the season. Come January 1, these festive tins (along with some leftover holiday tissue paper) will handily stow away your delicate ornaments and small decor. Stack these small boxes neatly inside your holiday storage bins like snug little packing cubes!” – Emily Daily and JoJo Heinke from Spruced

Christmas storage tips for tangle-free lights

Nothing can dampen the holiday spirit quite like a tangled mess of Christmas lights. To prevent this annual frustration, cut a piece of cardboard into a rectangle and make small incisions along both sides. Wrap your lights around the cardboard, inserting the strands into the incisions to keep them organized and tangle-free.

For a more professional approach, consider investing in a Christmas light reel. These handy tools come with a convenient storage bag and can easily wrap and store your lights, ensuring they're ready to illuminate your home next year.

“Carefully separating your delicate ornaments and toppers. Wrap each piece individually in high-quality bubble wrap to ensure optimal protection. Remember, a skimpy wrap can lead to costly replacements. Untangle each set and wrap them around designated holders. This simple step will save you significant frustration and time when next year’s holiday season arrives.” – Organized Life By Michelle

"To keep holiday string lights tangle-free and ready to use next year, wrap them around sturdy cardboard or a reel before storing. Place them in labeled bins for easy identification. This simple step saves time and frustration when it's time to decorate again." – Melanie McConnell owner, of Mello Spaces

Wrapping paper wonderland

To keep your wrapping paper rolls from unraveling, cut a toilet paper roll along its length and wrap it around the paper roll. Secure it with a rubber band. This simple trick will save you time and frustration when it's time to wrap gifts.

Once your rolls are secured, store them in a garment bag. This will keep them organized, protected, and out of the way.

“When storing holiday decorations, consider using color-coordinated bins (like red/green for winter holidays or orange/black for Halloween) to easily identify your items. If new bins aren’t an option, large labels work just as well—be sure to also number your totes (e.g., 1/3, 2/3, 3/3) so you know you have everything together for setup and takedown.” –Kasey Fragoso Owner of  Sweet Sanctuary Services

 “Store gift wrap, bags, cards, ribbons, and other small items in an under-bed container for easy access. Protect delicate ornaments by storing them individually in a padded box with slots. Use sturdy, stackable boxes like Sterilite plastic bins to store larger items such as Christmas trees, wreaths, and lights. Create separate boxes for specific categories, such as one for lights with cord winders, tinsel, and nutcrackers, and another for smaller items like menorahs, kinaras, candles, and stockings.” – Caroline Warren with The Clutter Whisperers/CW Organizing Solutions

Sentimental storage

Holiday cards are more than just paper; they're a tangible reminder of the season's joy and the love shared with friends and family. To preserve these precious memories, punch holes in your cards and bind them into a book. Displaying this heartfelt collection will bring a smile to your face year after year.

“If you need to rightsize your holiday decor, take photos and create a memory book of the items you're releasing. This helps keep cherished memories alive and allows you to share them with others. One of our clients made a book for her grandson about the history of the family Christmas tree stand and included photos from four generations.” – Whitney Zeigler founder of Big Rock Organizing

“Before you take down your holiday decor, snap a quick photo of each area. Print it off & tape it to the bin or digitally save it in a holiday folder to make next year's decorating a breeze!” – Julia Scott owner of Efficiently Neat

“When storing fragile decorations or family heirlooms, never use newspapers. It can stain or rub off on your items. Preserve your fragile items by wrapping them in acid-free tissue and storing them in appropriately sized storage bins.” – Janelle Azar owner of A Meaningful Space

Ribbon organization

If you're a fan of adding the perfect bow to your gifts, you know how frustrating it can be to untangle a tangled mess of ribbon. To keep your ribbons organized and ready to use, create a DIY storage box. Divide the box into compartments using cardboard or fabric dividers. Roll up each ribbon and place it in a separate compartment. This will keep your ribbons neat, tidy, and easily accessible.

“To extend the life of your Christmas ribbons and bows, neatly roll the ribbons and fill the bows with packing paper to help them maintain their shape. For sprays and picks, wrap them in packing paper to prevent tangling and keep them looking their best for next  season." – Naomi Kealy founder  and CEO of Charming Spaces

Make more space for the new year

Declutter your holiday decor and spread the joy! Donate gently used items to local charities or thrift stores.

“As you begin to dismantle and put away your holiday decorations, look at what you had decided not to use this season. If you find that, year after year, you skip over certain décor items, consider removing them from your collection. You’ll be saving room by only storing those items that truly bring you holiday cheer. And those unused items can now bring joy to a new home.” – WOW! Organized! LLC

Christmas tree storage

Storing a Christmas tree in a small space can be a challenge, but with a bit of creativity, it's entirely possible. Consider these space-saving tips:

Under-bed storage: If you have a bed with storage space underneath, this can be a great place to store your disassembled tree.

“When taking down the tree, I like having two containers and a large storage bag. The artificial tree should go in the tree bag and be stored in a temperature-controlled space. Ornament boxes are great for those fragile items; they usually have dividers, but if they don't, you can't go wrong adding in a little bubble wrap or using some of your leftover tissue paper to cushion the items. In the other container, I like to put the lights, extension cords, tree toppers, and tree skirts and label that box "Tree Items. It will make it much easier next year to recreate the tree setup.” – Erin Steele with Joyful Tidying, LLC

Compact storage bags: Invest in a high-quality, compact storage bag designed for Christmas trees. These bags can significantly reduce the storage footprint of your tree.

“Simplify your holiday setup by opting for a real Christmas tree, eliminating the need for long-term artificial tree storage. For hassle-free outdoor lighting, consider using projector lights to create stunning holiday displays without the tedious task of untangling and stringing traditional lights.” – Michelle Conneay owner of Foster Organizing, LLC

Label, label, label your Christmas storage

Labeling your holiday decorations is a simple yet powerful way to streamline your holiday setup and teardown. Clear labels on storage bins and boxes can save you precious time and frustration. By knowing exactly what's inside each container, you'll be able to quickly find specific items, avoid unnecessary unpacking, and ensure that everything is stored safely and efficiently.

 "Pack away all your decorations in clear bins using white tissue paper so there is no color transference. Use a label maker and be as specific as possible with what you are placing inside the bin; that way there's no question about what's inside. If you don't have a label maker, you can write on a notecard and attach it to the outside, which works just as well. You can even take a photo of the decorations on display and add it to the exterior of the box as a visual reminder." – Ashley Ingraham Watts with Home Perspective LLC

“Use sheet protectors for your labels. Labels get dirty and damaged over time, especially when stored in basements, attics, or garages. Slide your labels into plastic sheet protectors before attaching them to your bins. Not only will this keep them clean and readable, but it also makes it super simple to switch labels out if you decide to reorganize or change your decorating style in the future.” – Pam Miller-Fitzgibbons with Organizer AZ 911

Assuming you have the space for a multi-level rack that can hold large plastic bins, this would be the best starting point. The rack can be in a closet, an attic, a basement, or a garage. Each bin can hold decorations for a specific holiday, and if you have a lot of decorations, you can use multiple bins. If you don't have a label maker (always a great gift! ), use masking tape and a permanent marker to label the outside of each bin so you know precisely what is inside. You can even create an inventory of items that are in each box and have that inside. – Lauren Saltman owner of Living Simplified

Wreaths, swag garlands, etc

To ensure your wreaths and garlands remain in pristine condition for the next holiday season, proper storage is key. Start by gently removing any ornaments or decorations. For wreaths, consider using a dedicated wreath storage bag, which will help maintain its shape and protect it from dust and damage. For garlands, wrap them around a piece of cardboard to prevent tangling. Store both items in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture.

“Store wreaths or swag garlands in labeled garment bags in the back of your closet. They'll stay dust-free and prevent shedding while keeping their shape until the next holiday season. This simple solution protects your investment and makes decorating a breeze next year.” – Cathay Borg with In and Out Organizing   

“For large, oversized decorations, using specialized storage bags like wreath storage bags is a great solution. Measuring the item beforehand ensures a proper fit, keeping the decorations secure. Garment bags and plastic cushion storage bags are also effective alternatives for other large items, offering flexibility and protection for various shapes and sizes. This method helps preserve the quality and longevity of your decorations.” – Open at Home

Making a list and checking it twice...

Natalie Ron, founder of Swoon Spaces, a renowned home organization service operating in New York, Los Angeles, and Austin, TX, emphasizes the importance of creating a detailed inventory of your holiday decorations. By keeping a checklist of items and their holiday storage locations, you can effortlessly locate everything when the season arrives. This simple yet effective strategy ensures a stress-free setup and teardown, allowing you to fully enjoy the festive spirit.

More holiday storage ideas

“The ultimate tip for storing your holiday decorations is by category: outdoor decorations together, shelf decor together, lights together, etc. If you have room-specific decorations, you can even store decorations by which area of your home they belong in. This makes packing things up and unpacking for next season a breeze!” –Bianca Grimmel Professional Organizer

 “I like to wrap ornaments in faux snow! And place them in clear totes. That way you do not have to worry about the varying sizes of the ornament fitting into the small square space in ornament organizers, and you can get more bang for your buck by using ox space! Also, use Christmas light storage reels to easily wrap your light strands without the tangled mess!” –  Caroline Overstreet owner & professional organizer with Overstreet Organizing

“Rather than storing like-with-like, consider storing items how you display them, i.e., all mantle decor together, all tree decor together, all entryway decor together, etc. You can even take a picture of each set-up and include that in the bin so you can easily decorate the same the next year!”--Organize with Brittany

“When storing holiday decorations, group similar items together and label each bin clearly. Use smaller containers for fragile ornaments and wrap them in tissue or bubble wrap to prevent damage.”-- Missy Feldman with No Mess with Missy, LLC

A stress-free holiday season

By implementing these clever Christmas storage hacks, you can transform the task of packing away holiday decorations into a breeze. With a little planning and organization, you'll be ready to deck the halls with cheer year after year.Clever Hacks for Christmas Storage

The holiday season, a time of joy, laughter, and cherished traditions, inevitably comes to an end. As we bid farewell to twinkling lights, festive decorations, and heartwarming gatherings, the task of packing away these holiday treasures often looms large. But fear not, for with a little planning and organization, you can streamline the Christmas storage process and ensure your holiday cheer is ready to shine again next year. Whether you're celebrating the season in the bustling metropolis of New York City or the vibrant streets of New Orleans, these clever holiday storage hacks will help you save space and time and protect your decorations.

“Invest in a dedicated shelving unit for your holiday storage area; easy access to each bin without unstacking is important! This makes it easy to pack away those stragglers that you miss the first time through or decorations that tend to linger through the winter months (Snowmen don’t have to melt away because the December holidays are over!). Whether you prefer clear bins for easy visibility of contents or the clean look of matching bins, make sure to label each box clearly so you can quickly find what you need.” – Katie McAllister, Susquehanna Closet & Garage Design, York, PA

Ornament organization

To safeguard delicate ornaments, consider using egg cartons. Each ornament can be nestled in a separate cup, providing ample protection. For larger ornaments, plastic apple containers offer a sturdy and convenient Christmas storage solution.

To accommodate unique shapes and sizes, such as handmade ornaments or vintage treasures, glue plastic cups to a piece of cardboard that fits inside a storage bin. Fill the cups with your ornaments and secure the lid. This method ensures that each ornament has its designated space, minimizing the risk of damage.

‘On all of my trips I get a new ornament, something I started very young. I love my ornament organizer box. It keeps them all separate, safe, and not chipping. A few paper towels keep each padded as well. I’ve used an old feather pillow to protect and keep my Tiffany Santa safe in storage too.

Adding QR codes to all of your boxes is a game changer. It’s always helpful to pull up the code to see the photos you’ve added of what decor is in the box.” – Ryen Toft | Pro Organizer owner & founder, Simply Luxe Organizing

“Why not give those divided liquor boxes from your neighborhood store a new life by using them to organize your delicate ornaments? Just wrap each ornament in a bit of tissue paper and stack them neatly in the boxes. You'll find that liquor boxes are sturdier than regular cardboard boxes, making them perfect for safe, vertical storage. This not only optimizes your space but also keeps your decorations organized and well-protected!” – Jocelyn Kenner with See Your Way Clear, LLC

Once you’ve finished baking those delicious holiday cookies, don’t toss out the festive tins just yet! These sturdy containers can be repurposed to protect your delicate ornaments and small decor items.

“Set aside any small, sturdy gift boxes and holiday cookie tins you receive throughout the season. Come January 1, these festive tins (along with some leftover holiday tissue paper) will handily stow away your delicate ornaments and small decor. Stack these small boxes neatly inside your holiday storage bins like snug little packing cubes!” – Emily Daily and JoJo Heinke from Spruced

Christmas storage tips for tangle-free lights

Nothing can dampen the holiday spirit quite like a tangled mess of Christmas lights. To prevent this annual frustration, cut a piece of cardboard into a rectangle and make small incisions along both sides. Wrap your lights around the cardboard, inserting the strands into the incisions to keep them organized and tangle-free.

For a more professional approach, consider investing in a Christmas light reel. These handy tools come with a convenient storage bag and can easily wrap and store your lights, ensuring they're ready to illuminate your home next year.

“Carefully separating your delicate ornaments and toppers. Wrap each piece individually in high-quality bubble wrap to ensure optimal protection. Remember, a skimpy wrap can lead to costly replacements. Untangle each set and wrap them around designated holders. This simple step will save you significant frustration and time when next year’s holiday season arrives.” – Organized Life By Michelle

"To keep holiday string lights tangle-free and ready to use next year, wrap them around sturdy cardboard or a reel before storing. Place them in labeled bins for easy identification. This simple step saves time and frustration when it's time to decorate again." – Melanie McConnell owner, of Mello Spaces

Wrapping paper wonderland

To keep your wrapping paper rolls from unraveling, cut a toilet paper roll along its length and wrap it around the paper roll. Secure it with a rubber band. This simple trick will save you time and frustration when it's time to wrap gifts.

Once your rolls are secured, store them in a garment bag. This will keep them organized, protected, and out of the way.

“When storing holiday decorations, consider using color-coordinated bins (like red/green for winter holidays or orange/black for Halloween) to easily identify your items. If new bins aren’t an option, large labels work just as well—be sure to also number your totes (e.g., 1/3, 2/3, 3/3) so you know you have everything together for setup and takedown.” –Kasey Fragoso Owner of  Sweet Sanctuary Services

 “Store gift wrap, bags, cards, ribbons, and other small items in an under-bed container for easy access. Protect delicate ornaments by storing them individually in a padded box with slots. Use sturdy, stackable boxes like Sterilite plastic bins to store larger items such as Christmas trees, wreaths, and lights. Create separate boxes for specific categories, such as one for lights with cord winders, tinsel, and nutcrackers, and another for smaller items like menorahs, kinaras, candles, and stockings.” – Caroline Warren with The Clutter Whisperers/CW Organizing Solutions

Sentimental storage

Holiday cards are more than just paper; they're a tangible reminder of the season's joy and the love shared with friends and family. To preserve these precious memories, punch holes in your cards and bind them into a book. Displaying this heartfelt collection will bring a smile to your face year after year.

“If you need to rightsize your holiday decor, take photos and create a memory book of the items you're releasing. This helps keep cherished memories alive and allows you to share them with others. One of our clients made a book for her grandson about the history of the family Christmas tree stand and included photos from four generations.” – Whitney Zeigler founder of Big Rock Organizing

“Before you take down your holiday decor, snap a quick photo of each area. Print it off & tape it to the bin or digitally save it in a holiday folder to make next year's decorating a breeze!” – Julia Scott owner of Efficiently Neat

“When storing fragile decorations or family heirlooms, never use newspapers. It can stain or rub off on your items. Preserve your fragile items by wrapping them in acid-free tissue and storing them in appropriately sized storage bins.” – Janelle Azar owner of A Meaningful Space

Ribbon organization

If you're a fan of adding the perfect bow to your gifts, you know how frustrating it can be to untangle a tangled mess of ribbon. To keep your ribbons organized and ready to use, create a DIY storage box. Divide the box into compartments using cardboard or fabric dividers. Roll up each ribbon and place it in a separate compartment. This will keep your ribbons neat, tidy, and easily accessible.

“To extend the life of your Christmas ribbons and bows, neatly roll the ribbons and fill the bows with packing paper to help them maintain their shape. For sprays and picks, wrap them in packing paper to prevent tangling and keep them looking their best for next  season." – Naomi Kealy founder  and CEO of Charming Spaces

Make more space for the new year

Declutter your holiday decor and spread the joy! Donate gently used items to local charities or thrift stores.

“As you begin to dismantle and put away your holiday decorations, look at what you had decided not to use this season. If you find that, year after year, you skip over certain décor items, consider removing them from your collection. You’ll be saving room by only storing those items that truly bring you holiday cheer. And those unused items can now bring joy to a new home.” – WOW! Organized! LLC

Christmas tree storage

Storing a Christmas tree in a small space can be a challenge, but with a bit of creativity, it's entirely possible. Consider these space-saving tips:

Under-bed storage: If you have a bed with storage space underneath, this can be a great place to store your disassembled tree.

“When taking down the tree, I like having two containers and a large storage bag. The artificial tree should go in the tree bag and be stored in a temperature-controlled space. Ornament boxes are great for those fragile items; they usually have dividers, but if they don't, you can't go wrong adding in a little bubble wrap or using some of your leftover tissue paper to cushion the items. In the other container, I like to put the lights, extension cords, tree toppers, and tree skirts and label that box "Tree Items. It will make it much easier next year to recreate the tree setup.” – Erin Steele with Joyful Tidying, LLC

Compact storage bags: Invest in a high-quality, compact storage bag designed for Christmas trees. These bags can significantly reduce the storage footprint of your tree.

“Simplify your holiday setup by opting for a real Christmas tree, eliminating the need for long-term artificial tree storage. For hassle-free outdoor lighting, consider using projector lights to create stunning holiday displays without the tedious task of untangling and stringing traditional lights.” – Michelle Conneay owner of Foster Organizing, LLC

Label, label, label your Christmas storage

Labeling your holiday decorations is a simple yet powerful way to streamline your holiday setup and teardown. Clear labels on storage bins and boxes can save you precious time and frustration. By knowing exactly what's inside each container, you'll be able to quickly find specific items, avoid unnecessary unpacking, and ensure that everything is stored safely and efficiently.

 "Pack away all your decorations in clear bins using white tissue paper so there is no color transference. Use a label maker and be as specific as possible with what you are placing inside the bin; that way there's no question about what's inside. If you don't have a label maker, you can write on a notecard and attach it to the outside, which works just as well. You can even take a photo of the decorations on display and add it to the exterior of the box as a visual reminder." – Ashley Ingraham Watts with Home Perspective LLC

“Use sheet protectors for your labels. Labels get dirty and damaged over time, especially when stored in basements, attics, or garages. Slide your labels into plastic sheet protectors before attaching them to your bins. Not only will this keep them clean and readable, but it also makes it super simple to switch labels out if you decide to reorganize or change your decorating style in the future.” – Pam Miller-Fitzgibbons with Organizer AZ 911

Assuming you have the space for a multi-level rack that can hold large plastic bins, this would be the best starting point. The rack can be in a closet, an attic, a basement, or a garage. Each bin can hold decorations for a specific holiday, and if you have a lot of decorations, you can use multiple bins. If you don't have a label maker (always a great gift! ), use masking tape and a permanent marker to label the outside of each bin so you know precisely what is inside. You can even create an inventory of items that are in each box and have that inside. – Lauren Saltman owner of Living Simplified

Wreaths, swag garlands, etc

To ensure your wreaths and garlands remain in pristine condition for the next holiday season, proper storage is key. Start by gently removing any ornaments or decorations. For wreaths, consider using a dedicated wreath storage bag, which will help maintain its shape and protect it from dust and damage. For garlands, wrap them around a piece of cardboard to prevent tangling. Store both items in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture.

“Store wreaths or swag garlands in labeled garment bags in the back of your closet. They'll stay dust-free and prevent shedding while keeping their shape until the next holiday season. This simple solution protects your investment and makes decorating a breeze next year.” – Cathay Borg with In and Out Organizing   

“For large, oversized decorations, using specialized storage bags like wreath storage bags is a great solution. Measuring the item beforehand ensures a proper fit, keeping the decorations secure. Garment bags and plastic cushion storage bags are also effective alternatives for other large items, offering flexibility and protection for various shapes and sizes. This method helps preserve the quality and longevity of your decorations.” – Open at Home

Making a list and checking it twice...

Natalie Ron, founder of Swoon Spaces, a renowned home organization service operating in New York, Los Angeles, and Austin, TX, emphasizes the importance of creating a detailed inventory of your holiday decorations. By keeping a checklist of items and their holiday storage locations, you can effortlessly locate everything when the season arrives. This simple yet effective strategy ensures a stress-free setup and teardown, allowing you to fully enjoy the festive spirit.

More holiday storage ideas

“The ultimate tip for storing your holiday decorations is by category: outdoor decorations together, shelf decor together, lights together, etc. If you have room-specific decorations, you can even store decorations by which area of your home they belong in. This makes packing things up and unpacking for next season a breeze!” –Bianca Grimmel Professional Organizer

 “I like to wrap ornaments in faux snow! And place them in clear totes. That way you do not have to worry about the varying sizes of the ornament fitting into the small square space in ornament organizers, and you can get more bang for your buck by using ox space! Also, use Christmas light storage reels to easily wrap your light strands without the tangled mess!” –  Caroline Overstreet owner & professional organizer with Overstreet Organizing

“Rather than storing like-with-like, consider storing items how you display them, i.e., all mantle decor together, all tree decor together, all entryway decor together, etc. You can even take a picture of each set-up and include that in the bin so you can easily decorate the same the next year!”--Organize with Brittany

“When storing holiday decorations, group similar items together and label each bin clearly. Use smaller containers for fragile ornaments and wrap them in tissue or bubble wrap to prevent damage.”-- Missy Feldman with No Mess with Missy, LLC

A stress-free holiday season

By implementing these clever Christmas storage hacks, you can transform the task of packing away holiday decorations into a breeze. With a little planning and organization, you'll be ready to deck the halls with cheer year after year.