Separate storage for holiday items
Devote containers to storing holiday decorations from different seasons. For example, use separate boxes or bins for Christmas and Halloween decorations. Clearly label each with the holiday and what types of items are contained within.
Bulb ornaments
These can be delicate. Try to store them in their original cartons or wrap them in wrapping paper or tissue paper before packing them into sturdy, new boxes or containers.
Tinsel and garland
Save the tinsel from the landfill. Collect as much as you can from the tree and store it in a plastic container for next year.
Use an empty wrapping paper tube to store garland: either gently wrap the garland around the tube or thread it through the tube multiple times.
Lights
Wrap your light strings around spools so they don’t get tangled. You can buy kits for light organization or reuse large spools from wire or yarn. Shipping tubes or even empty paper towel rolls will work too! Look around your house and use things you’ve already got before making a purchase.
Kitchen and serving items
You probably don’t use those Christmas tree cookie cutters or decorative plates and glasses any other time of year. Cut down on clutter in the kitchen by storing these with your decorations.
Re-gifting
Most of us have decorations that we’ve outgrown. Re-gifting is a wonderful way to find new homes for these items that no longer fit your décor. Store these decorations apart from those you will continue to use and label them clearly. Mark your calendar for late November and send them to friends and family so they can take on a second life and be a part of new traditions.
