The Ultimate Guide to Packing and Storing Holiday Decorations

Columbia Self Storage
January 3rd, 2025

The holiday season is a magical time of year, but when the celebrations end, the task of packing away decorations can feel overwhelming. Properly organizing and storing your holiday items not only saves time next year but also protects your cherished decorations. Here are some tips to ensure your holiday décor stays safe and in great condition for seasons to come.

Sort and Declutter

Before you start packing, take inventory of your holiday decorations. Discard broken items or donate decorations you no longer use. This step helps you avoid storing unnecessary clutter and makes unpacking easier next year.

Invest in Proper Storage Containers

Specialized storage containers designed for holiday decorations can make a big difference:

Ornament Storage Boxes: These boxes have dividers to prevent fragile ornaments from touching each other.
Wreath Storage Bags: Protect wreaths from dust and damage with specially designed bags.
Clear Bins: Transparent bins make it easy to see what's inside without opening multiple boxes.

Label Everything

Clearly label each box with its contents, such as “Tree Ornaments,” “Outdoor Lights,” or “Gift Wrapping Supplies.” For even more efficiency, create an inventory list and store it in a notebook or on your phone.

Wrap Fragile Items Carefully

Fragile decorations require extra care. Use bubble wrap, tissue paper, or soft cloths to cushion delicate items. Avoid using newspaper, as the ink can transfer onto decorations.

Avoid Tangling Lights

Tangled holiday lights can be frustrating to untangle next year. Here’s how to avoid the hassle:

Use Light Reels: Wrap string lights around a dedicated light reel or a piece of sturdy cardboard.
Bundle by Strand: Secure each strand with twist ties or rubber bands to keep them from shifting.
Store in Bags: Place each bundled strand in a resealable bag to prevent them from getting mixed up.

Taking these steps now will save you time and effort when decorating next season.

Store Items by Category

Organize decorations by type, such as ornaments, lights, and tabletop displays. Alternatively, you can group items by room or holiday theme. Keeping related items together simplifies decorating next year.

Choose the Right Storage Location

Store your decorations in a cool, dry place. Avoid areas prone to temperature fluctuations, such as attics or garages. If space is an issue, consider renting a temperature-controlled storage unit for added protection.

Plan for Easy Access

Place frequently used decorations, like your tree topper or outdoor lights, in an accessible spot. Items you use less often can be stored in harder-to-reach areas.

Bonus Tip: Keep Holiday Wrapping Supplies Organized

Use a wrapping paper organizer or a tall storage bin to keep rolls of wrapping paper, bows, and ribbons tidy. Store scissors, tape, and gift tags in a caddy so everything is in one place when you’re ready to wrap.

Make Storage Stress-Free

Packing and storing holiday decorations doesn’t have to be a chore. By taking the time to organize and protect your decorations now, you’ll make the next holiday season more enjoyable and less stressful. If you need additional space for your holiday décor, consider renting a storage unit at Columbia Self Storage. Our clean, secure, and convenient units are perfect for keeping your decorations safe until next year. Contact us today to find the perfect storage solution for your needs!

Columbia Self Storage Blog