How to Store Christmas Decorations With Next Year In Mind
Easy, practical ideas for putting away Christmas decorations so everything is protected, organized, and ready to use again next year.
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Putting away Christmas decorations is not just about packing things up. It is about storing them thoughtfully so decorating feels easier and more enjoyable the next time around.
Once Christmas is over, it can feel overwhelming to organize all the decor, greenery, ornaments, ribbon, and lights that filled your home just weeks before. For years, I searched for a simple system that would help me clear the house of Christmas while keeping everything neat, protected, and easy to find again.
Those large blue storage bins may seem like the quickest solution, but they often lead to broken ornaments, crushed greenery, and lots of digging when it is time to decorate again. Storing Christmas decorations well takes a little more intention, but it makes a big difference.
The good news is there is a better way. With a few smart habits and simple organizing strategies, putting away Christmas with 2026 in mind can feel calm and manageable.
In this post, I am sharing practical ideas for storing Christmas decorations, from purging and cleaning to choosing the right containers, labeling, and organizing by category. These are the same methods I use year after year to keep Christmas decor in good condition and ready to enjoy again.
Let’s start at the beginning, before anything goes into a box.
Take Pictures Of This Year’s Christmas Decor
Before packing up a single ornament or garland, take pictures of this year’s Christmas decor. Trust me, it is worth the few extra minutes, especially when you are putting away Christmas with 2026 in mind.
If you want to recreate a favorite look or simply remember how you arranged things, photos save you from relying on memory for every little detail. They become a visual reminder of what you used, where you placed it, and what worked especially well.
As a blogger, I do this naturally, but even if you are not documenting your home regularly, this habit is incredibly helpful. Over the years, my photos have helped me see patterns, remember favorite arrangements, and notice what I did not use at all.
Before you put anything away, take photos of:
- Whole rooms to capture the overall look
- Trees, mantels, shelves, and tables
- Close ups of ornaments, ribbon, and wreaths
- Any vignette or area you loved and may want to repeat
Use your smartphone and create a simple digital album. Name it something like Christmas 2025 Decor, so it is easy to find when you begin planning for Christmas 2026. This small step can save hours of guessing and rearranging next year.
Later in this post, I will share a few more creative ways these pictures can help you organize, plan, and decorate more easily for Christmas 2026.
Purge, Purge, Purge
Putting away Christmas decorations is the perfect time to let go of what no longer serves your home. Before anything goes into a box, take a few minutes to decide what is worth keeping and what is ready to go. This one step makes decorating for Christmas 2026 so much easier.
Christmas Purging Pro Tip
Over the years, I have learned that storing less is just as important as storing well. If something is broken, worn, or no longer something you enjoy using, now is the time to part with it.
I keep two bags and one laundry basket nearby while packing up Christmas. It keeps the process simple and moving forward.
Here is my easy purging system:
- Trash bag
Anything broken, chipped, stained, or beyond repair goes straight in. No second-guessing. - Giveaway bag
Decor that is still in good condition but no longer fits your decorating style goes here. Someone else may enjoy it, and it frees up valuable storage space. - Laundry basket
This catches all the non-Christmas items that show up while decorating, books, trays, stray ornaments from other seasons, or anything that belongs back in another room.
As for decorations you did not use this year, you do not have to decide right now. Simply set them aside and put a reminder on your calendar to revisit them later. Giving yourself a specific date helps prevent unused decor from piling up year after year.
Purging as you go creates breathing room in your storage and makes unpacking next Christmas feel calm and organized. It is one of the kindest things you can do for your future self.
Clean And Repair Christmas Decorating Before Storing
Before Christmas decorations are packed away for another year, take a little time to clean and repair them. This step may feel small, but it makes a big difference when you open boxes again for Christmas 2026.
Decor that is stored dirty or damaged often looks worse the next year, and stains, dust, or loose pieces can become permanent if they sit too long. A little care now helps everything last longer and look better season after season.
Here are a few things worth doing before decorations go into storage:
- Wash or dry-clean fabric items like stockings, tree skirts, and table linens
- Wipe down ornaments, candlesticks, and decorative objects
- Check for loose hooks, missing hangers, or broken attachments
- Tighten screws or stands on tabletop trees and wreath hangers
If something needs a quick fix, do it now. Glue that loose ornament cap, replace a missing hook, or discard items that are beyond repair. It is much easier to handle these small tasks now than when you are decorating again next year.
Wrap and Protect Fragile Decor
Once items are clean, wrap anything delicate to protect it while in storage.
- Use tissue paper for ornaments and smaller decorative pieces
- Use bubble wrap for fragile or sentimental items
- Keep heavier decor separate from breakable pieces
- Fill boxes so items do not shift around while stored
Taking the extra time to clean, repair, and protect your Christmas decorations keeps everything ready to use and enjoyable when it is time to decorate again. It also prevents unpleasant surprises when boxes are opened months later.
Choose The Right Storage Container For Christmas Decor
Choose the Right Storage Containers for Christmas Decor
Those big blue bins make it tempting to toss everything in quickly and call it done. They are fine for sturdy items, but they are not always the best choice for most Christmas decorations, especially for anything delicate, made of fabric, or sentimental.
Over time, cramming decorations into oversized bins can lead to broken ornaments, bent greenery, and crushed ribbon. Storing Christmas decorations with next year in mind means choosing containers that actually protect what you love.
Why Smaller Containers Work Better
A better approach is using smaller, clear containers whenever possible. They are easier to lift, stack, and sort through when decorating again.
The Best Storage Containers to Use
- Shoebox-size clear boxes
These are my favorites for ornaments, ribbon, small trees, and seasonal accents. I would much rather have several smaller boxes than one large bin. - Specialty storage boxes
Ornament boxes, wreath containers, and tree storage bags are designed to protect specific items and are worth using for pieces you use every year. - Clear plastic bins
Being able to see what is inside without opening the lid saves time and frustration.
Once a box is packed, label it clearly and, if you like, take a quick picture of the contents. This simple step makes it much easier to find specific decorations when you start decorating for Christmas 2026.
When Big Bins Still Make Sense
So what should big bins be used for? Reserve them for sturdy or oversized items, such as tree stands, outdoor decor, or unbreakable greenery.
Choosing the right storage containers helps protect your Christmas decorations and keeps everything easier to find and enjoy next year.
Pro Tip
Start collecting smaller boxes now and add to your stash each year. Gradually swapping out your big bins for more efficient storage will make a world of difference when it comes to preserving your holiday decor and keeping everything organized.
Store Christmas Decorations By Category
One of the easiest ways to make decorating simpler next year is to store Christmas decorations by category. When similar items are grouped together, you spend far less time digging through boxes and far more time enjoying the decorating process.
This approach also helps you see what you truly have. It prevents buying duplicates and makes it clear which categories you reach for year after year.
Group Like Items and Like Colors Together
As you put decorations away, sort them into logical groups. Think about how you decorate rather than how you purchased items.
Here are some categories that work especially well:
- Red ornaments are stored together
- Small Christmas accents like bells, figurines, and tabletop trees
- Evergreen snippets and small greenery pieces
- Small wreaths are used on doors, cabinets, or furniture
- Christmas napkins, runners, and table linens
- Organics such as berries, faux fruit, and pinecones
- Ribbon grouped by color or style
Keeping like items together makes it easy to pull exactly what you need without opening multiple boxes.
Store the Items You Use Most Where They Are Easy to Reach
Not all Christmas decorations are used equally. Store your most-used categories in spots that are easy to access. Less frequently used items can go on higher shelves or deeper storage areas.
This small adjustment saves time and effort and makes decorating feel more relaxed.
Let Categories Guide Your Labeling
Once decorations are grouped, labeling becomes simple. Labels should clearly reflect the category, such as red ornaments, evergreen pieces, or Christmas ribbon. This makes it easy to know what is inside a box without opening it.
Storing Christmas decorations by category keeps everything organized, protected, and easy to find. It is one of the most practical steps you can take when putting away Christmas with 2026 in mind.
Where To Store Decorations In Your Home
Knowing where to store Christmas decorations is just as important as knowing how to store them. The right location helps protect your decor and keeps everything easier to access when you begin decorating for Christmas 2026.
Different types of decorations do better in different areas of the home, so a little planning goes a long way.
Basement Storage
Basements are a popular choice for Christmas storage, but moisture can be an issue.
- Store decorations in clear plastic containers, never cardboard
- Keep boxes off the floor on shelves or pallets
- Avoid storing fabric items directly against concrete walls
A dry, temperature-stable basement is one of the best places for most Christmas decor.
Attic Storage
Attics offer lots of space, but heat and cold can be hard on decorations.
- Avoid storing candles, glue-based decor, and anything with adhesive
- Ornaments and ribbon can become brittle with extreme temperature changes
- Use attic space for sturdy items that are not affected by heat
If you use attic storage, keep boxes clearly labeled and easy to reach.
Garage Storage
Garages work well for certain decorations but should be used carefully.
- Store outdoor decorations and unbreakable items here
- Keep bins tightly sealed to prevent pests
- Avoid placing decor near chemicals or lawn equipment
Garages are best for items that can handle temperature swings.
Closet Storage
Closets are ideal for items that need a bit more care.
- Store fabric items like stockings and tree skirts
- Use garment bags for wreaths or garland
- Keep frequently used decor within easy reach
Closets offer stable temperatures and are perfect for more delicate pieces.
Choosing the right storage location helps preserve your decorations and makes setting up next Christmas feel organized instead of overwhelming.
How To Store Ornaments Safely
Christmas ornaments are often the most delicate and sentimental decorations we own, so storing them carefully matters. A little extra attention now helps prevent broken pieces and makes decorating for Christmas 2026 much more enjoyable.
Over the years, I have collected ornaments in just about every color and style. To keep them easy to find, I store ornaments by color and then by shape or style.
Organize Ornaments by Color and Style
Grouping ornaments this way makes decorating faster and keeps everything cohesive.
Some examples of categories that work well:
- Round red ornaments
- Handblown red ornaments
- Silver balls
- Mercury glass ornaments
- Snowball ornaments
- Gold balls
- Long or specialty-shaped ornaments
Once you see how easy this system is, it becomes second nature.
How to Pack Ornaments So They Do Not Break
Proper packing is just as important as organizing.
- Wrap delicate ornaments in tissue paper
- Place ornaments in clear boxes so contents are visible
- Fill boxes about three-quarters full to prevent shifting
- Add a layer of bubble wrap on top for extra protection
This method keeps ornaments from moving during storage and reduces the risk of damage.
Creative Ornament Storage Ideas
If you want additional options, these work especially well:
- Egg cartons for small, fragile ornaments
- Original ornament boxes for sentimental or heirloom pieces
- Divided wine boxes for larger ornaments
For ornaments with special meaning, consider labeling the box with the year or a short note. Opening those boxes next year becomes a sweet reminder of past Christmases.
Storing ornaments with care protects both their beauty and the memories attached to them.
Storing Artificial Christmas Trees
Storing an artificial Christmas tree properly helps it keep its shape and makes setting it up much easier next year. A little care now goes a long way, especially if you want your tree to look just as good for Christmas 2026.
Before storing your tree, make sure all ornaments, ribbon, and lights are removed, and branches are gently fluffed back into place.
Use the Storage Bag That Came With Your Tree
If your artificial tree came with a storage bag, use it. These bags are designed to protect the tree from dust and damage and often have handles that make moving and storing easier.
Trees that come with storage bags are usually higher quality, and using that bag helps extend the tree’s life. We have used the same tree and storage bag for years, and it has held up beautifully.
Consider Buying a Tree Storage Bag
If your tree did not come with a bag, purchasing one is a smart option.
- Protects the tree from dust and pests
- Keeps branches from being bent or crushed
- Makes storage and transport easier
Choose a bag that fits your tree comfortably without forcing branches inward.
When a Simple Cover Works Fine
Not every tree needs a storage bag. We cover our smaller tabletop and flocked trees with an old cotton sheet and store them in the basement. If your trees do not come with a bag, keep them intact and cover them.
This option works well if the tree is lightweight and does not require additional support.
Where to Store Artificial Trees
Artificial trees do best in dry, temperature-stable areas.
- Store them off the floor
- Avoid damp basements or hot attics when possible
- Keep them away from heavy items that could fall or press against them
Storing artificial Christmas trees with care keeps them ready to use and enjoyable for many seasons to come.
How To Store Christmas Wreaths Without Crushing Them
Christmas wreaths can be tricky to store, especially once they are fluffed, styled, and decorated just the way you like them. The goal is to keep their shape intact so they are ready to hang again when Christmas 2026 arrives.
The best storage method depends on the space you have, but several reliable options work well.
Hanging Wreaths in Storage Areas
If you have a basement or storage space, hanging wreaths is one of the best ways to keep them looking good. This is how I hang my wreaths.
- Hang wreaths on nails or sturdy hooks
- Cover each wreath with an old cotton sheet or fabric
- Secure the bottom loosely to keep dust away
Hanging keeps wreaths from being flattened and makes them easy to see at a glance.
Boxing Wreaths the Right Way
If hanging is not an option, wreath boxes work very well.
- Use cardboard or plastic wreath boxes designed for storage
- Add tissue paper or bubble wrap around decorated areas
- Store wreaths flat and avoid stacking heavy items on top
Clear plastic wreath containers are especially helpful since you can see what is inside without opening them.
Alternative Wreath Storage Ideas
If space is limited, these ideas can be great solutions:
- Store smaller wreaths in shallow under-bed bins
- Place wreaths in garment bags and hang them in a closet
- Stack undecorated wreaths in a large tote with padding between each one
- Hang wreaths on hangers on a rolling clothes rack
Choose the option that preserves the wreath’s shape and keeps embellishments from bending or being crushed.
Storing wreaths with care saves time next year and keeps them looking just as pretty as the day you took them down.
How To Store Christmas Garland To Keep Its Shape
Garland can be one of the most frustrating Christmas decorations to store. It tangles easily, gets crushed, and can lose its shape if it is not handled with care. A few simple steps make all the difference and keep garland ready to use for Christmas 2026.
Christmas Garland Storing Tip
The key to storing garland well is to avoid tight bends and heavy pressure. Giving garland room to rest helps it keep its shape and fullness for next Christmas.
Hang Garland When You Can
If you have the space, hanging garland is one of the best storage options. This is how I store garland.
- Use long nails or sturdy hooks in a basement, storage room, or closet
- Drape garland loosely so it keeps its natural shape
- Cover it with an old sheet or fabric to keep dust away
You can also drape garland over one or more sturdy cloths hangers on a rolling rack.
This works especially well for faux evergreen garland and anything with wired branches.
Store Garland in Boxes the Right Way
When hanging is not possible, boxing garland carefully is the next best option.
- Coil garland loosely, never tightly
- Line the box with tissue paper or packing paper
- Place lighter garland on top of heavier pieces
- Use clear plastic bins so you can see what is inside
Avoid forcing garland into a box that is too small. That is when bending and flattening happen.
Christmas Lights Storage That Prevents Tangles
Christmas lights can quickly become the most frustrating decorations to unpack if they are not stored well. Tangled strands waste time and often break bulbs or wires. A little care now makes decorating for Christmas 2026 much smoother.
Before storing lights, take a few minutes to check each strand.
- Plug lights in and discard any that no longer work
- Coil lights gently instead of wrapping tightly
- Keep different types of lights stored separately
Easy Ways to Store Christmas Lights
Several simple methods work well. Choose what fits your storage space and the number of lights you have.
- Wrap lights around cardboard, reels, or light spools
- Coil lights loosely and place them in labeled zipper bags
- Store lights by location, such as tree, mantel, porch, or windows
- Use clear bins so you can see what is inside
Keeping lights sorted by where they are used saves time and prevents pulling out more than you need.
Lights Storing Tip
Avoid tight wrapping and sharp bends when storing Christmas lights. Giving them room helps prevent tangles and extends their life.
Storing lights carefully now means fewer headaches and faster decorating next Christmas.
Outdoor Christmas Decoration Storage
Outdoor Christmas decorations take a bit more wear and tear than indoor decor, so storing them well helps them last longer and look better year after year.
Before packing anything away, make sure outdoor decorations are completely dry. Even a little moisture can cause rust, mildew, or damage while items sit in storage.
Smart Ways to Store Outdoor Christmas Decor
- Wipe down decorations and allow them to dry fully
- Coil extension cords neatly and secure them with soft ties
- Store cords, stakes, and hardware together in labeled bags
- Use sturdy plastic bins with tight-fitting lids
- Keep outdoor decor stored separately from indoor decorations
Group outdoor items by location, such as front porch, yard, or entryway. This makes setting up next Christmas quicker and far less frustrating.
Outdoor Christmas Decoration Storage Tip
Store outdoor Christmas decorations off the floor in a garage or storage area to protect them from moisture and pests.
Good storage now means outdoor decorations are ready to go when it is time to decorate again.
Labeling Christmas Decorations
Labeling is one of the simplest steps you can take when putting away Christmas decorations, and it makes a huge difference next year. Clear labels remove guesswork and save time when you are ready to decorate for Christmas 2026.
When boxes are labeled well, you do not need to open several containers to find what you need. Everything is easy to spot and easy to return to storage when the season is over.
What to Put on Your Labels
Good labels are specific, not general. Instead of writing “Christmas Decor,” include details that help you recognize the contents quickly.
Here are a few examples that work well:
- Red ornaments
- Evergreen pieces and snippets
- Christmas ribbon, red and white
- Stockings and tree skirt
- Small tabletop trees
- Outdoor porch decor
If you decorate by color or by room, include that on the label as well.
Where Labels Matter Most
Some categories benefit from labeling more than others.
- Ornaments stored by color or style
- Ribbon and bows
- Wreaths and garland
- Linens and fabric decor
- Boxes that look similar in size and shape
Placing labels on the front and top of a box makes them easy to read, no matter how they are stacked.
Common Christmas Storage Mistakes To Avoid
Even with the best intentions, a few small mistakes can make storing Christmas decorations harder than it needs to be. Avoiding these common issues helps protect your decor and makes decorating next year much easier.
- Storing decorations without cleaning them first
- Packing items while they are still damp or dusty
- Using cardboard boxes that attract moisture and pests
- Overfilling bins so decorations shift or get crushed
- Wrapping lights, garland, or ribbon too tightly
- Mixing heavy items with delicate decor in the same box
- Skipping labels and assuming you will remember what is inside
- Storing everything in one large bin instead of sorting by category
- Forgetting to toss broken or worn decorations before storing them
Taking a few extra minutes to avoid these mistakes saves time, space, and frustration when Christmas decorating begins again.
Labeling Christmas Decor Tip
If you like visual reminders, take a quick photo of what is inside each box before closing it. Pairing a photo with a clear label makes finding decorations next year even easier.
Labeling may feel like a small step, but it brings calm and order to Christmas decorating. It is one of those habits that pays off every single year.
Wrapping Paper, Gift Bags, and Ribbon Storage
Wrapping paper and gift wrap supplies can easily become messy if they are not stored thoughtfully. Taking a little time to organize these items now keeps them neat, usable, and ready when the next gift needs wrapping.
The goal is to keep wrapping supplies unwrinkled, clean, and easy to see.
How to Store Wrapping Paper
Wrapping paper stores best when it is kept straight and protected.
- Use tall bins or wrapping paper storage containers
- Store rolls upright or lay them flat in long, shallow bins
- Avoid bending or stuffing rolls into tight spaces
- Keep wrapping paper away from damp areas
Storing wrapping paper properly prevents creases and torn edges.
Storing Gift Bags and Tissue Paper
Gift bags and tissue paper are easy to organize with a simple system.
- Sort gift bags by size and stand them upright in bins
- Use file boxes or magazine holders for smaller bags
- Keep tissue paper folded flat and grouped by color
When bags and tissue are stored neatly, you can see what you have without digging.
Organizing Ribbon, Bows, and Gift Wrap Accessories
Ribbon and bows need a bit of care to stay usable.
- Roll ribbon loosely and store by color
- Keep bows in shallow boxes so they do not get crushed
- Store gift tags, tape, and scissors together in a small container
Keeping all gift wrap supplies together saves time and avoids last-minute searching.
Wrapping paper and gift wrap supplies may not be decorations, but organizing them well makes the entire Christmas season feel smoother and more enjoyable.
A Quick Checklist For Putting Away Christmas Decorations
When everything feels scattered at the end of the season, a simple checklist helps keep the process calm and organized. Use this as a final pass before closing the storage door and moving on to the new year.
Before decorations go into storage:
- Take pictures of this year’s Christmas decor
- Purge broken, worn, or unused decorations
- Clean fabric items, ornaments, and decorative pieces
- Repair loose hooks, broken attachments, or damaged stands
As you pack things away:
- Store decorations by category and color
- Use containers that fit the item instead of oversized bins
- Wrap fragile decor with tissue paper or bubble wrap
- Avoid tight bends on garland, ribbon, and lights
- Keep outdoor decorations separate from indoor decor
Before stacking boxes:
- Label every container clearly
- Store frequently used items where they are easy to reach
- Keep decorations off the floor in storage areas
- Make a note of anything to replace or buy for Christmas 2026
This checklist does not need to be done all at once. Work through it at a comfortable pace and adjust it to fit your home and storage space.
Putting away Christmas thoughtfully now means decorating next year starts with confidence instead of frustration.
Putting away Christmas decorations does not have to feel rushed or frustrating. When it is done thoughtfully, it becomes part of caring for your home and setting yourself up for an easier, more enjoyable season next time.
Storing Christmas with 2026 in mind means giving yourself the gift of calm. You know what you have, where it is, and that it is ready to be used again. Decorating next year becomes about enjoying the season, not searching for missing pieces or fixing what was damaged in storage.
Take your time, do what works best for your home, and remember that this does not have to be perfect. A simple, intentional system is more than enough.
Helpful Storage Supplies for Christmas Decor
Having the right storage supplies can make putting away Christmas decorations much easier and far less frustrating. These practical storage solutions help protect what you love, keep everything organized, and make decorating next year feel simpler from the start.
FAQs About Storing Christmas Decorations
The best way to store Christmas decorations is to sort them by category, clean them first, use appropriately sized containers, and label everything clearly. Storing decorations with next year in mind makes decorating easier and less stressful.
Both can work, but it depends on the item. Basements are better for most decor if they are dry and temperature-stable. Attics are best for sturdy items that are not affected by heat or cold. Fabric, candles, and delicate decorations should be stored in more climate-controlled spaces.
Wrap ornaments individually with tissue paper, store them in clear containers or divided boxes, and avoid overfilling bins. Group ornaments by color or style to make decorating easier next year
Wreaths store best when they are hung or placed in wreath boxes. Hanging wreaths keeps them from being crushed, while wreath containers protect decorated surfaces and keep dust away.
Store lights loosely, not tightly wrapped. Use reels, cardboard, or zipper bags, and keep lights sorted by their use. Avoid sharp bends to help extend their life.
If decorations were not used, set them aside and decide later whether to keep or donate them. Decorations that are broken, worn, or no longer enjoyed are best passed along or discarded before storing.
More Organizing And Cleaning Ideas
f you enjoy organizing ideas like these, you may also like this post about keeping a tidy, attractive kitchen that is always organized and a pleasure to work in.
Happy Organizing, friends!
Great ideas for storage and organization. Your home is just so beautifully decorated for the holidays hope you keep everything for at least a little while after Christmas. I love everything but the white tree in your master bedroom is my absolute favorite thing. It is just stunning.
I am already doing most of these things so looks like I’m on the right track. I am lucky enough to have storage space to keep everything inside the house in an upstairs closet. The only hard part is hauling the tree up the stairs!
Pottery Barn has the prettiest white velvet coverlets. I had to get rid of mine…toooo hot all the time here in Houston, but it was the prettiest cover I have ever had. On sale, also.
Thanks for letting me know Beverlee!
Thanks for all the handy tips. This is the year for me to be better organized!!! I started early when decorating and purged as I went along. I also bought eight larger plastic (see through) bins and starting organizing the decorations I did not use, but still want to keep for future use. I will continue this when the Christmas decorations come down in January. All your posts are so helpful. Thank you!
I really appreciate the posts on organizing, purging and storing. I’m a firm believer in everything has a place and everything in it’s place. I always pick up new ideas though.
Thank you for everything you do to help us make our home a little bit prettier. Merry Christmas to you & yours! ~Joanna
All great ideas. I have been taking pictures of my seasonal and holiday decor for the past few years and find it so helpful when it comes time to decorate again. I also like your suggestion to use the clear plastic shoe boxes. I have lots of the big bins loaded with Christmas decor and it has gotten to the point that they are too heavy for me to haul up from the basement and back down again to put things away. Smaller boxes will be so much easier to handle. Now I just have to get the purging down!
I do very similar things. I store things by ROOM. I write n each bin/box/container what is in it too. I put it on a piece of paper and tap that to the outside of the container. That way I can grab the box for whatever room I am doing and start decorating. Wishing you, Bobby and your family and those 2 adorable grands a blessed Christmas. We’ll get together SOON!! XOXO
I used to store by room, and now store by color instead. I like shallow, locking, under-bed-bins so I don’t have to dig to the bottom for things. Plastic water bottles of various sizes with the top cut off make great storage for bottle brush trees and some other fragile items. Staple them together into 6-packs. I keep a running list of what I need to buy next year and try to get it done this year on sale. I keep a Pinterest board of this year’s decor and start one for next year’s inspirations.
Great tips Brita!
MERRY CHRISTMAS TO YOU AND FAMILY
This sounds dreary but so worth the effort for next year! I keep my label maker with me and label each box. Taking pictures and keeping a folder is a great idea! I’ll have to check into Evernote. I didn’t have time to decorate some places that I wanted to, but will work up a schedule for next year. I’m sure nobody noticed or cared but I did! I hope Santa was good to you and best wishes for a wonderful New Year!
Hi Cecilia, I forgot to mention my label maker. Thanks for the reminder.
MERRY & BRIGHT CHRISTMAS MY DEAR FRIEND!
Merry Christmas!
Great tips for organizing. I do wish I had your energy. But as always I am inspired to organize and make my home a haven. Thank you
Thanks for your ideas. I always enjoy reading your posts and seeing the beautiful photos. I do take pictures of decor every year and use those the next year. I start decorating the same way as the previous year and then change, if I wish. I also store items by room and tape a note to the box with what is stored in each box. It makes decorating so much easier and not overwhelming. Bring down a box, decorate, return box to attic and get another. I’ve been following your suggestion of getting really good faux greenery each year from gift shops. Merry Christmas!
MERRY CHRISTMA, NANCY! Thanks for the ideas!
For years now I have been buying 16 quart Steralite clear boxes at Big Lots. That way they are all the same and easily stack. Because I am older, I put labels on the ends and write with a Sharpie to be easier to read at a distance. I buy color dots or sticky notes of the season (like red for Christmas) to put on them. My big red or blue tubs get the same treatment. The next thing I do is put packets of desiccants in them to keep the musty smell out. Because I make wreaths to sell, finally, I put unmade wreaths in new plastic garbage cans with lids. Measure across the top first.
Merry Christmas. Thank you for sharing your lovely home with us and your ideas.
Merry Christmas Yvonne,
I miss you on DTT. Love hearing your ideas. Wishing you happy holiday times with your family.
Great storage advice. I’m glad to know I do some of them. I do like to purge every year. And I take pictures every year of every seasons decor because I can’t remember squat. I keep them in my Dropbox.
Yvonne, these are such wonderful tips for putting away our Christmas decor. I hope your family had a wonderful celebration! I miss you being on Decorating Tips and Tricks!! It’s not quite the same.
Great post, as always! Check out Duck Pack & Track. I heard about it on Clutter Free Academy (also helpful and motivating!). It’s a game-changer!
Always good ideas. I have always done pix that Iprint of decorated rooms. Aside from fragile items and linens, I pack each room seperately with the pix of the room. Also, I always have a box titled “did mot use”. I go through that box the following year. What I dont use, gets donated that year.
I learned from my MIL to store ornaments & decorations in furniture drawers in the rooms where they’re used. This makes decorating & undecorating SO much easier & quicker too.
All great ideas for storing Christmas items for next year, BUT, what are you putting on your mantel now as surely it’s too early for Spring decorating.
Thx
I’m sharing that soon!
Great tips, I’ve been taking pictures of all my rooms/vignettes for many years. Boy, it sure helps the following year if you want to repeat something. I also created a word document and listed all my rooms and the decorations/placement for each room. When storing, I also use bins, labeled by room and contents since I usually repeat the decorations every year. I also label my bins and storage racks with numbers so they can be put on the racks in good order, almost like putting a puzzle together since I have so many things. It’s gonna be a little sad to take everything down!
Wow, great system, Barbara!
Excellent advice! Makes sense to do this as we’re putting everything away. I tend to just want to finish putting Christmas away after having it up for over a month LOL
Most of us feel like that! But once you put Christmas away how I explained you will be so happy and put Christmas away the right way every year!
Thanks for the packing away ideas.
You are welcome, Beth.
I, too, have a box for each room for quick decorating each year – but I like your storage ideas and see why that would work better for you and those who change the decor each year. I always look forward to what you are doing in your home (and your recipes!). You have so much creative talent and your home is always so beautiful. Looking forward to your blog in 2021! Happy New Year!
Thank you, Amma! Happy New Year!
Before Christmas, I take a picture of my book shelves so that they can be easily restored after the Christmas decor goes back to the attic. I don’t donate unwanted Christmas items until the following November — thrift shops don’t have space to hold onto Christmas decor all year. I actually like the big bins (labelled) so that we have fewer trips to the attic, but I organize them by what I need first: Christmas cards/stamps/pens; napkins, table cloths; cookie cutters & tins; a bin for all the outdoor lights, the village, etc. I don’t want everything brought down at the same time — it’s too overwhelming. I do make a list of what I’ll need next year and post it to my fall calendar.
Wow you are so organized Teresa. Thanks for all the great tips.
I so appreciate your organization tips for post Christmas work! I have already put to use many of them but have never thought of using zip ties. I like to use pant hangers for the large greenery items and cover them with plastic bags and tie at the bottom. Thank you again!
Great tip Kathie!
Such good ideas for putting Christmas away! I especially like the idea of taking pictures of all my vignettes and decorations. This will be so helpful and I do plan to accomplish this. It took me many hours to decorate and looking back at the pictures next year will be so helpful and shorten my time spent decorating. Another thing I do that helps is to put decorations from each specific room into a bin, and mark it. This takes extra care when packing, but it can be done.
Such good ideas for putting Christmas away! I especially like the idea of taking pictures of all my vignettes and decorations. This will be so helpful and I do plan to accomplish this. It took me many hours to decorate and looking back at the pictures next year will be so helpful and shorten my time spent decorating. Another thing I do that helps is to put decorations from each specific room into a bin, and mark it. This takes extra care when packing, but it can be done.
As a blogger, I have so many images to recall what I put where for Christmas! It is so helpful
When buying storage containers, I always tell people to keep in mind how heavy they will be when they are full. It is tempting to buy the biggest containers but, when full, you can’t lift them. Be sure to label everything you have in that container no matter how small the item is. NEVER wrap anything in newspaper. If you purchase cards for next year, do not put them in with your Christmas decorations. You may want to write your cards long before you start decorating to get that chore out of the way early. Keep a list of who you sent cards to and who sent them to you. I keep my tree in the box it came in, but I reinforced all the corners of the box because I plan to always store the tree in that box.
Super great tips, Linda! Thanks and Merry Christmas!
aLways good to review your posts. While putting up garland on our staircase, discovered one strand lights out. I did buy a replacement, and lo and behold, while searching for something else, i found I had 2 boxes of new lights, about 12 strands! That mystery box is now labeled with its contents. For some years now, I’ve been using clear tubs for ornaments & such.
Just had a conversation this morning with my sister about putting Christmas items away. I told her to use her iPad and snap pictures of decor she used this year. Add them to a Christmas Decor album on her iPad. I have many albums to assist my memory of favorites of all kinds.
Smart, Sandy!
You mentioned making advent calendars for next year. What is your source for instructions or ideas for advent calendars?
Hi JC, I’ve not done that yet. Hopefully for 2022
I thought I knew how to store our decorations, boy was I wrong. Thank you I will be doing a lot better.
As always I enjoy reading your tips…I too take pictures of the decorations, room by room…I found that if I really love a Christmas vignette, i pack the entire set of pieces in it’s own storage box , labeled so if next year I want to replicate, I have the decorations ready….for that particular room or side table….
Your home is beautiful,,,,,Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
What a wonderful idea, Nancy! Thanks for sharing. Merry Christmas!
Great ideas! I would add that I take pictures of each vignette, put them away in the same box, and then print the photo on my color printer and lay it on top of the box so I know how to re-create it next year. I took your recommendation and did several table top trees this year And enjoyed them so much! I am going to not take the ornaments off and store them in a guest bedroom closet with a sheet over them. I know it’s lazy, but do you think there are any problems with doing this?
Great ideas! This year I kept things simpler. In preparation for our hopeful downsized move in 2024 I reorganized everything earlier this year. New container idea. My sons are not married and no grandkids yet. Decided to create a “Whimsical Container”that holds all our fun decorations related to younger family members. Not saying I won’t pull some things out here and there but at least it all will be in one place when the time comes to bring the joy of childhood excitement to our holidays. Thanks for all your great posts. Appreciate all the work you do.
Happy New Year????!
I love my label maker and not just for Christmas either! I recently reorganized all of our files. My hubs is always looking for certain papers, so I broke things down, different hanging and individual folders, he no longer has chaos as an excuse to look for something!
I put some things together in “Christmas Lite” boxes. If we’re spending the bulk of the season not at home, it’s still festive before we leave but not overwhelming to pack up in January. I might decorate a few surfaces but not bring out the dishes, coffee cups, linens, etc. This year I decorated surfaces with white pottery and faux greens…still seasonal but not overly Christmas. As my daughter develops her own Christmas traditions, I won’t be decorating in the style of “Pier One coughed up all their seasonal clearance sales for the last 20 years!” Much more subdued these last years!
You have helped me very much over the years I have followed your blog—Thank you so much!
I have a question. You said make a photo file for your Christmas pictures on your iPhone. Can you please tell me how to make a photo file and put photos in it or send me to a link that shows how to do it?
Thanks again, Melinda
I think it would be best if you looked that up on Google. You might even like to see a YouTube video.
All great ideas. I, too, use my phone to take pics and store and label bins too. I don’t do the same theme every year so the pics help me – I also do that for Easter and Thanksgiving. I post decor in instagram so I have a record there too. Love your blog and emails. Happy New Year!
Thank you so much Nora! Taking pic is so smart. Happy New Year to you too!
Yvonne, I always enjoy reading all your ideas for Christmas storage! You are such a great help and I have made a lot of changes because of your fabulous ideas! I always leave my Christmas decor out until January 5th. I decorate early — beginning of November — so that we can enjoy Christmas a little longer as this is our very favorite time of the year! And, I love to decorate.
I pray that you and Bobby will have a wonderful 2024! Yvonne, you are such a blessing and how I thank God for you! I am so happy that I subscribed to your post years ago!
I am happy too, Mary Ann! I love when I see your comments. You are a good friend I have never met. God bless you and yours in 2024.
So excited to read your ideas and thank you so much for helping us out, you are a blessing????
Thanks, Judy! Happy New Year.
These are great ideas and I thank you! I am downsizing for a move in the next few months so organization is key for every area of my home. I will not have either an attic or a basement, so what I keep needs to fit in the garage.
Congratulations on your move! Have you read my downsizing series? It’s a six part series that I think you might find helpful.https://stonegableblog.com/downsizing-a-home-our-story-part-1/
Thanks for all the awesome inspiration ‼️. Where did you buy the pine wheat in this post. Thanks Laura
I made it. Here’s a DIY post for the wreath. It’s so easy to make!https://stonegableblog.com/how-to-make-a-simple-and-natural-pinecone-wreath/
This is the best organizing Christmas decor ever! Thank you so very much for all your excellent ideas! Blessings!P
You are so welcome. God’s blessings to you, too!