Keep your festive treasures looking their best year after year with these expert storage tips for wreaths, ornaments and figurines.
The first step in preserving your holiday decorations is selecting appropriate storage containers. Opt for sturdy, archival boxes with tight-fitting lids to shield your items from dust and light. Consider investing in storage solutions specifically designed for holiday decorations. For instance, ornament storage containers often come with divided compartments to keep each ornament safe and separate. Wreath storage boxes are available in various sizes and are designed to maintain the shape and condition of your wreaths.
Before packing away your decorations, take the time to clean them thoroughly. Dust off ornaments, wipe down figurines and shake out wreaths to remove debris. A small paintbrush is helpful for items with intricate designs or small pieces. This is essential to prevent damage and deterioration during storage.
Ensure that all items are completely dry before packing them away. Any remaining moisture can lead to mold and mildew growth, ruining your decorations. For added protection, consider wrapping delicate items in acid-free tissue paper.
Wreaths can be large and difficult to store without causing damage. To preserve their shape, use dedicated wreath storage boxes. If you don’t have one, you can hang wreaths in a closet or on a hook, covering them with a plastic bag to protect against dust.
Avoid placing heavy items on wreaths, which can flatten and damage them. If stacking wreaths, arrange them carefully to prevent crushing. Labeling your wreath storage will make finding the right one for each holiday season easier.
Ornaments are often fragile and require careful handling. To keep them separated and prevent breakage, use storage containers with individual compartments or dividers.
Wrap each ornament in acid-free tissue paper. Store heavier ornaments at the bottom of the container and lighter ones on top. Labeling each container with its contents will save time and reduce the risk of damage when it’s time to decorate again.
Holiday figurines, such as nativity scenes, nutcrackers and collectible Santas, often have sentimental value and need careful storage. Use sturdy boxes with ample padding to protect these delicate items. Wrap your figurines in acid-free tissue paper or inert foam. Keep figurines in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent fading and cracking over time.
To prevent damage, store items with sentimental or monetary value in a closet or under a bed to protect them from large temperature and humidity fluctuations and exposure to light.