The time to store holiday decorations comes around soon enough every year – Photo Courtesy: David Davies
Every year when the holiday season arrives, most of us are catapulted into that familiar festive mood. When the cold weather starts settling, the days get shorter, and lights – along with other seasonal decorations – will soon be filling our houses. And then there are plenty of decorations that come light bulb-free, opting for glitter, fabrics, or some other form of seasonal cheer. Whether in candle form, Christmas lights, or just decorations those come with a switch, our homes will be lit from the inside out.
Seasonal Decorations Are For a Short Duration
The thing about seasonal decorations, however, is that they are, well, seasonal. There’s a set expiration date, but one that’s renewable each year. No one wants to display snowmen year-round, or support red and green tablecloths during summer heat. Instead, these items are meant only to be showcased a small portion of the year – and rightfully so.
But what do we do with these items the rest of the year? And where do our “regular” decorations hide while the snow is falling? Rather than just packing them away or hiding them where no visitors will ever venture, why not set up a specific plan; One that is easy to follow and keeps decorations safe to see another year.
A Few Easy Tips to Store Your Decorations:
Cartons and Boxes
Keep ornaments in an egg carton or Styrofoam-lined box to keep them from breaking. This will help with movement, but also eliminate the need for dusting each year. This is also a good idea for other breakable items.
Keeping out Critters and Dirt
Place Christmas lights and garland in trash bags or sealed boxes to keep out critters and dirt (Especially when storing in a musty basement or garage). Plastic bags can also be put inside a box to help with stacking.
Label All Boxes
No matter our intentions for next year, it’s always hard to remember what items are in each box. Use a descriptive label, or even tape a list of each box’s contents to the lid. (This works well with plastic tubs as well.)
Find a System
Whether you prefer putting room décor together (the living room stuff goes with the other living room stuff, and so on) or like items together, find a system that works for you.
Make Room
When storing, no amount of scrounging or constantly moving boxes is worth it. Find a permanent home for boxes that aren’t being used, and switch them out as necessary. This might be a basement, a storage room, or even a rented storage unit.
When putting these steps into place, the most important aspect of all is finding a system that works best for you. Once finding the most effective steps, you can be well on your way to finding a safe home for all your seasonal decorations.
Post provided by St.Patrick’s Guild, your stop for holiday decorations.
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