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You may have just hauled out the holly, but before you blink, it’ll be time to put it all away again. It’s not something you probably want to think about while you’re still putting finishing touches on the tree and enjoying the dazzling light displays. But I encourage you to save this for when you’re ready to take down your holiday decor so you can guarantee it’s organized come next year.
Creating a system for your decor is just as important as doing so with the rest of the stuff in your home. It’s easy to think it’s not worth the time and effort since you don’t need it most of the year. But it is! Being organized with your decor storage saves time and space, protects your precious pieces, and makes putting up and taking down holiday decorations a breeze.
Follow this simple three step process for organizing and storing your holiday decor.
1. Declutter what no longer brings joy
As with any organizing project, the first step is to let go of the things you no longer need or want. Did you neglect to put some things out this year because you don’t love them? Is anything broken beyond repair? Now’s the time to donate, recycle, or toss them so they don’t linger around and take up unnecessary room.
2. Designate a spot for your holiday decor
Many people choose the garage, basement, or attic for storing their decor. However, if you have antique items, you might consider storing them in an area that’s temperature controlled. It’s also ideal to keep all decor items together (if possible) so they’re easy to find. If investing in a small storage unit to keep your decor safe appeals to you, that’s an option as well. Other ideas for decor storage include a closet under the staircase, an underused office or guest room closet, or even under a bed if you have a minimal amount and are short on space.
3. Determine the right storage solutions
Once you’ve decided where to keep your decor, realize that what you keep it in is just as important. The right organizers will safeguard your things so that they last for years to come. Here are some of the products I recommend to help keep your decor organized.
If you have the space, add a tall, metal shelving unit that will withstand the weight of your decor. The shelves are adjustable and caster wheels can be added so you can move it around if need be. Be sure to take measurements before choosing the size so you know it will fit your space.
I love these bins from The Container Store because they come in a variety of sizes (9 to be exact!) and their lids lock tight to keep out moisture and pests. Plus, they’re clear so you can easily see what’s inside each one.
Even with using clear totes, I would still recommend adding labels to each bin. You can use creative decal labels like above or just a basic label maker. Either one will make it easy to quickly identify what’s in each box.
Similar to storing glasses or mugs, these divided trays keep ornaments and other small decorative items in place and protected. As a bonus, they’re designed to fit into the weathertight totes!
Artificial Christmas trees are an investment so you want to keep them in good condition. A great way to do that is by storing it in a soft bag. This one has handles and wheels for easy transportation.
Faux wreaths and garlands should also be placed in either bags or a hard shelled storage box before being stored away.
Save yourself from having to detangle lights next year by winding them around a holder like this. If you have a lot of lights, you can contain them all into a box like this one.
