Once the holidays are over, it’s tempting to just shove your Christmas tree back in its box and deal with it next year. But a little extra care now can save you hours of frustration later, and help your tree last longer.
Whether you’ve got an artificial, flocked or pre-lit tree, it’s important to store your Christmas tree properly. Here are the best Christmas tree storage tips to help you pack, protect, and store your tree.
Give Your Tree a Quick Clean
Once you’ve taken down all tree decorations and lights, give your tree a little TLC. Cleaning it now prevents dust building up over the next year and keeps your tree lasting longer.
Use a microfibre cloth to do a quick wipe over the branches, and vacuum around the tree base. Make sure the tree is completely dry before packing it up to prevent mould.
Disassemble, Compress and Wrap
Most artificial trees come in two or three main sections. Detach each part carefully, avoiding pulling or forcing any connectors. Then, compress your tree so it can fit neatly into its storage container and protect its shape.
How to compress Christmas trees correctly:
- Start with the top section. Push the branches gently upward from the bottom to the centre pole.
- Wrap each section in plastic wrap or old sheets to prevent branches catching on each other.
- For flocked trees (the ones with fake snow), avoid anything that will stick. Large rubbish bags work best for this.
Christmas Tree Storage Options
Picking the right storage container for your Christmas tree will help it last longer and keep your space organised. Here are your main options:
Christmas Tree Storage Bags
The most popular choice. These heavy-duty bags are easy to carry, offer more room than the original box, and sometimes even have wheels for easy moving.
Christmas Tree Storage Boxes
Perfect if your tree needs extra protection, especially in garages or sheds where moisture, pests or temperature changes could be an issue.
Original Tree Box
Cost-free, but not always practical. The cardboard usually weakens over time and offers less protection. We’d only recommended it if you're storing the tree in a dry, stable spot indoors.
Vacuum Storage Bags
This saves space, but is only recommended for slim or small trees. Never force your tree into a box, as it can permanently damage branches.
Protect Electronics
If your Christmas tree has lights built in, avoid bending the light wires sharply when folding the branches. Wrap each section loosely in bubble wrap to protect the bulbs from being crushed. Keep extension cords and spare bulbs together in a clearly labelled zip bag so you can find them easily next year.
Where to store your Christmas tree
Where you store your tree is just as important as how you pack it. Ideally, you want your tree to be in a dry, climate-controlled spare room, wardrobe or under-stair storage. You can even use an indoor storage unit for ultimate convenience.
Avoid storing your tree in damp garages, outdoor sheds, or hot areas that can warp plastic. Trees last much longer in consistent conditions.
Store the Tree and Decorations Separately
If you use tree skirts, toppers, spare light bulbs, or themed decorations specifically for this tree, keep them stored nearby, but not directly with the tree.
Heavy ornaments or toppers can crush branches if stored in the same bag or box.
Bonus: 8 Helpful Christmas Storage Hacks
1. Turn old pool noodles into ornament protectors
Cut a noodle into small rings, slit one side, and slide fragile ornaments inside for cushioning.
2. Use egg cartons for tiny ornaments
Mini baubles fit perfectly, keeping them organised and safe.
3. Wrap lights around cardboard cut-outs
This is an easy way to avoid your wires getting tangled every year.
4. Use wine bottle boxes for tall or odd-shaped décor
The built-in dividers keep decorations from bumping into each other.
5. Protect ornaments using leftover wrapping from gifts
Wrap each item in saved gift wrapping to cushion it while reusing materials you already have.
6. Slide wreaths into large dry-cleaner bags
This keeps them dust-free and ready to hang again without bending the greenery.
7. Keep a “fix-it kit” with décor hooks, bulbs and tape
Store a small repair kit with your Christmas items so quick fixes are easy next season.
8. Take a quick photo of your décor layout
Snap your tree, lights and displays so next year’s set up is quick and easy.
Small hacks like these can cut your setup time in half next Christmas. With the right storage container, careful wrapping, and a good choice of location, you’ll protect your tree from damage, dust, and wear.
If space is tight at home or you’re decluttering after Christmas, a short-term local storage unit can keep your seasonal décor in perfect condition year after year.
