Storing An Artificial Christmas Tree
While most people maintain the tradition of picking out that one special Christmas tree from a sea of real Christmas trees, more and more people are opting for artificial trees. Many artificial trees look just as good as a real tree and they’re just as fun to decorate, too. An artificial Christmas tree is also a good investment that can last for years when properly cared for.
Once the holidays are over and you’re ready to put the decorations away, before you pack away your artificial Christmas tree for the season, there are a few things you should do to get it ready for storage.
Note: The tree being used in the images below has hinged branches.
Prepare the Artificial Tree for Storage
Preparing your artificial Christmas tree for storage is a simple process that involves removing the decorations, compressing the branches and binding the tree. By the time you're done, you'll end up with your artificial Christmas tree in a bag or in a sturdy box, safely tucked away until next year.
Remove the Decorations
Remove all decorations from the tree, including ornaments, lights (if the lights are not permanently attached to the tree), ribbons and any other decorations.
Clean the Tree
Before storing the tree, make sure that it's clean. If you're not familiar with how it's done, our guide shows you how to clean your artificial Chrismas tree in a few simple steps.
Disassemble the Tree, if Necessary, and Compress the Branches
If your tree was put together in sections, disassemble it in sections, starting at the top of the tree. Working with each section, compress the branches inward, towards the center of the section, making it as flat and compact as you can. This makes the tree smaller and saves space. If you have a one-piece artificial tree, lay the tree down on its side and press the limbs inwards, pressing towards the center as you move around the tree.
Compressing the tree’s limbs also helps to maintain the tree’s shape.
Bind or Stretch Wrap the Tree [Optional]
For added security, try binding the tree branches with hook and loop fasteners. Wrap the fastener around each section to secure it and keep it flat. It’s a great space-saver and keeps the branches neatly in place.
Alternatively, you can wrap the tree in stretch wrap.
Putting the Tree Away for Storage
Choose your method of storage: a box or bag that’s designed specifically for Christmas tree storage. Typically, artificial Christmas trees come in cardboard boxes. These aren’t ideal for long term storage. Instead, choose a sturdier box or a Christmas tree bag that’s designed to last longer and protect your tree.
Christmas tree bags are available in a variety of materials, including nylon, polyester, canvas and plastic. Many bags are on wheels to make moving easier. To make trimming the tree even easier next Christmas, invest in an upright storage Christmas tree bag that allows you to store the tree intact and vertical. Decorating is as easy as unzipping the bag and setting the tree in place.
Christmas tree storage bags are available in different sizes to accommodate trees in various heights from 3 feet to 12 feet, and some even fitting trees up to 15 feet.
Dealing With Moisture
If moisture getting into the bag is a concern, try adding a product that will absorb moisture in the bag. You’ll likely need to replace it every few months if it is absorbing any moisture from the air, especially if the bag’s being stored in humid conditions.