As the temperature begins to drop and the leaves start to change colors, many of us are getting ready for a new season – but what do you do with all those decorations from last year? Storing seasonal decorations can often be a challenge; it’s hard to know where everything should go or how best to pack them away. Let’s learn how to better store your various holiday decorations so that switching between seasons is more enjoyable and efficient!
Choosing the Right Storage Unit for Seasonal Decorations
If you don’t have enough room at home to store all your seasonal decorations, it’s time to consider renting out a storage unit!
Seasonal decorations can quickly eat up space, and a storage unit can help you free up room for your everyday stuff. And storage units are not as expensive as you might think.
When you’re ready to get a storage unit, keep these essential factors in mind:
- Size: Ensure that the unit is spacious enough to comfortably accommodate your decorations, allowing them room to breathe.
- Climate Control: If your decorations include delicate items such as candles, paper ornaments, or textiles, opt for a unit with climate control to safeguard them against extreme temperatures and humidity.
- Security: Prioritize a storage facility with robust security measures, including cameras, secure access, and well-lit areas. Your peace of mind is important.
- Location: Select a storage unit that is conveniently located near your home, making it easy for you to access your decorations whenever needed.
Pro Tip: Some storage companies provide pickup and delivery storage services, where they will collect your decorations from your place and safely store them for you. When you require your festive gear, they will promptly return it to you. It’s incredibly convenient!
Tips for Storing Seasonal Decorations
To preserve the pristine appearance of your seasonal decorations year after year, it’s crucial to store them properly. Here are some essential tips to ensure your festive items remain in excellent condition:
Dusting and Cleaning
Before packing your decorations away, give them a thorough dusting. They may have accumulated dust or grime during the season. A quick wipe-down or gentle cleaning can work wonders, guaranteeing that your items stay clean and fresh for future use.
Repair Any Damages
Inspect your decorations for any signs of damage, regardless of how small. It’s easier to fix them now than to discover a problem when you’re ready to decorate next season. Secure loose parts with glue, replace broken bulbs, or mend any tears. A little tender loving care can go a long way.
Sorting and Organizing
Effective organization is key when it comes to your decorations. Sort them by season to make it effortless to find what you need when the time comes. You can also group items by theme or color for added convenience. Clear containers or labels make identification a breeze.
Selecting the Right Storage Containers
Not all storage containers are created equal. For fragile or valuable items, consider investing in sturdy, airtight plastic bins with secure lids. Specialized storage solutions such as ornament boxes or wreath holders can provide added protection for your specific items. Ensure that your chosen containers are clean and dry before packing your decorations.
Wrapping and Protecting Delicate Items
Delicate decorations, such as glass ornaments or fragile figurines, require extra care. Individually wrap them in tissue paper, bubble wrap, or soft cloths. Gently layer them in the storage container to prevent breakage. For string lights, use cord winders or wrap them around pieces of cardboard to avoid tangling.
Document and Take Photos
This is especially useful if you have a large collection of seasonal decorations to store. Take photos of the contents of each box or create a digital album with pictures of your decorations. If you can’t remember what’s in each container, these visual references will save you time and simplify the process of finding specific items without having to open every single box.
Best Practices for Storing Specific Seasonal Decorations
Each type of seasonal decoration comes with its own unique requirements for storage. Let’s get over those requirements!
Christmas Decorations
Ornament Storage
- Keep ornaments separate by using divided ornament boxes or egg cartons.
- Wrap delicate glass ornaments in tissue paper or bubble wrap.
Tree Storage
- Disassemble your artificial tree and store it in a tree bag or box.
- Ensure the tree stand is clean and dry before storing it.
String Lights
- Prevent tangling by wrapping string lights around cardboard.
- Protect them from damage by storing them in a container or bag.
Halloween Decorations
Costume Storage
- Thoroughly clean and dry costumes before storing them.
- Prevent wrinkles and damage by using garment bags.
Pumpkin Decor
- Remove batteries from electronic pumpkins to prevent corrosion.
- Store plastic or foam pumpkins in a cool, dry place to prevent warping.
Easter Decorations
Egg Storage
- Place decorated eggs in egg cartons or specialized egg storage containers.
- Avoid stacking heavy items on delicate egg decorations.
Bunny Figurines
- Wrap ceramic or fragile bunny figurines in bubble wrap.
- Store them in a sturdy, labeled container to prevent breakage.
Summer Decorations
Beach and Outdoor Gear
- Clean and dry beach toys, umbrellas, and outdoor decorations.
- Use waterproof containers to protect them from water damage.
Patio Furniture Cushions
- Clean cushions and let them air dry before storing them.
- Save space by using vacuum storage bags.
How Do You Store Decorative Flowers for Months?
There are several methods you can use to keep your decoration flowers vibrant and beautiful for an extended period.
The first method is drying. This involves hanging the flowers upside down in a dark, dry place. This not only helps retain their color but also prevents any mold from forming. Another popular method is using silica gel. This involves burying your flowers in a container filled with silica gel crystals, which are readily available online or at craft stores. The silica gel effectively draws out the moisture from the flowers, thus preserving them in their original shape and color.
For flowers that are naturally flat, like pansies or violets, pressing is an ideal preservation method. You simply place the flowers between two sheets of parchment paper inside a heavy book and leave them to dry for 2-3 weeks.
Wax preservation is another option that involves dipping the flowers in melted paraffin wax. Once they dry, the wax forms a protective coating that keeps the flowers looking fresh and vibrant.
After your flowers are dried and preserved, the next step is storage. Choose a sturdy, breathable box and line the bottom with tissue paper or newspaper to absorb any residual moisture. Arrange the flowers carefully to avoid crushing them and place more tissue paper on top before closing the box.
Final Thoughts
To sum it up, effectively storing your seasonal decorations enables you to fully experience the joy of holidays and special occasions without any stress. By decluttering, organizing, and choosing a good storage company, you’ll be prepared to infuse your home with festive charm for years to come.
