The Post-Holiday Pack-Up: How to Properly Store Your Seasonal Decorations

Self Storage Tips


Norm Kotoch
January 20th, 2026



The holidays have come and gone, and the last of the festive cheer has been packed away. For many, this annual ritual involves shoving tangled lights and fragile ornaments into old cardboard boxes and hoping for the best. But a little strategic planning during the pack-up can save you time, money, and heartache next year.Properly storing your decorations not only protects your investment but also frees up valuable space in your home. It’s also a massive head start if you're planning to sell or move in the spring. Here’s how to do it right.

1. Ditch the Cardboard, Go for Plastic

Cardboard boxes break down over time and are susceptible to moisture and pests. Invest in sturdy, clear plastic bins with latching lids. They are easy to stack, protect the contents from dust and dampness, and let you see what's inside at a glance.

2. Give Ornaments Their Own Space

Don't just wrap fragile ornaments in newspaper and toss them in a box. Use specially designed ornament storage boxes with cardboard dividers. This prevents your delicate, often sentimental, ornaments from scratching, chipping, or breaking during storage.

3. Protect Your Wreaths and Artificial Tree

Wreaths can be crushed if stored improperly. Use a hard-shell wreath box to maintain its shape. For your artificial tree, ditch the battered original box and invest in a zippered tree storage bag. This makes it easier to transport and protects it from dust and pests far more effectively.

4. Choose the Right Environment (This is Key!)

Where you store your decorations matters most. Attics and basements are the worst offenders, as their extreme heat, cold, and humidity can wreak havoc:

  • Heat can warp plastic items and degrade delicate fabrics.
  • Cold can make plastics brittle and cause cracking.
  • Humidity is the biggest enemy, leading to mold, mildew, and musty smells.

The ideal solution is a small, climate-controlled storage unit. It provides a stable, dry environment that guarantees your decorations will come out looking as good as they did when you put them away. Plus, it frees up precious closet and garage space for things you use year-round.

5. Get a Head Start on Your Spring Move

If you’re planning to sell your home this year, getting non-essential items out of the house is the first step to decluttering and staging. Holiday decorations are the perfect items to move into storage first. It's an easy win that clears a surprising amount of space and signals the start of your moving preparations.

Store Smarter, Not Harder

A little effort now ensures a joyful and stress-free start to your next holiday season.Ready to give your decorations a safe home? Contact Security Self-Storage VII at (440) 636-1655 to find a small, affordable unit that’s perfect for the job.

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