The holidays bring joy, excitement, and a sense of magic as we fill our homes with lights and cheerful decorations. Let’s be honest: when the celebrations are over, storing holiday decorations becomes one of the most dreaded tasks of the season. You’re left wrestling with tangled lights, struggling to find space for bulky inflatables, and praying fragile pieces survive another year. It’s the ultimate buzzkill, and for Floridians, humidity makes the job even worse because your decorations are at constant risk of mold, rust, or damage if not stored properly.
This guide is for you, the hardworking South Floridian who just wants to enjoy the holidays without dreading the aftermath. We get it; this part of the holidays is exhausting, messy, and downright annoying. That’s why we’re here to help with tips to help you work smarter, not harder, making the process less frustrating. With expert advice and solutions from Our Family Moving & Storage, you’ll learn how to tackle the dreaded task of post-holiday cleanup like a pro!
Keep or Pitch?
Before you even think about storing holiday decorations, take a moment to evaluate what’s worth keeping. Every year, there will be items that should be tossed. Broken ornaments (even the power of glue can’t save them), sun-bleached inflatables, and tangled lights with only half-functioning bulbs will take up space meant to go to better-kept or newer decorations. If it’s damaged beyond repair or hasn’t been used in years, it’s time to let it go.
For those decorations you no longer want but are still in good condition, consider donating them. Local charities or thrift stores are often happy to take festive items off your hands (heck, some of them even have whole shelves of Christmas-themed mugs!). Decluttering not only makes storage easier but also gives you a better start for next year’s holiday season.
Recommended Ways to Store Holiday Decorations
Let’s face it: South Florida will always have humidity, which can wreak havoc on holiday decorations. We recommend storing items in a dry space to protect them. Fabric decorations, foam props, and metal pieces are particularly vulnerable to moisture; it’s best to avoid placing them in places prone to extreme heat or dampness.
Use the Right Boxes and Containers
The right storage containers make a big difference in keeping your decorations safe and your sanity intact. Reuse the original packaging (if it’s still in good condition) for items like lights, animatronics, or wreaths. For items with damaged packaging, it’s best to use stackable storage bins, which are durable, space-efficient, and resistant to pests and moisture. Artificial wreaths and garlands should also be placed in dedicated storage bins or garment bags to maintain their shape and stay dust-free. Everyone knows that storing Christmas tree ornaments can feel like defusing a bomb: one wrong move and something delicate is bound to break. Fragile items like glass figurines, ceramic pumpkins, or snow globes should be wrapped in bubble wrap, foam, or tissue paper for added protection. After the Christmas holiday, when it’s time to take the tree down, use boxes for ornaments with dividers to safely store small, delicate items and prevent an avalanche of glass and ceramic from raining down around your tree or wherever you store them.
Storing that Tree
Speaking of taking down the trees, some people prefer the convenience of an artificial tree to avoid tracking sap and pine needles through the house. Artificial trees offer a mess-free, reusable option, but they still need proper care, too. When storing an artificial Christmas tree, disassemble and store it in its original packaging; these boxes are often designed to fit the tree perfectly. If the original box is no longer usable, you should buy a dedicated tree storage bag or a large, sturdy container. Store the tree in a cool, dry space to prevent damage to its materials or shape.
Packing the Inflatables
Inflatables are a fun and festive part of many holiday lawn displays. Start by making sure they are completely deflated and dry to prevent mold or mildew from forming during storage. Fold them neatly; avoid sharp creases that could weaken seams or damage internal wiring. For larger inflatables, such as Halloween ghosts or Christmas Santas, use durable bins or storage bags to protect them from punctures or tears. Store them in a cool, dry space, away from direct sunlight, to keep the materials intact and ready for next year’s festivities.
Maximizing Storage Space
Maximizing your storage space at home can make a world of difference when it comes to organizing and storing holiday decorations. Use existing storage spaces like closets, attics, or sheds to keep your items tucked away yet accessible. Assign specific areas for each holiday, such as separate shelves or bins for Halloween and Christmas decorations, so you’re not hunting through everything when the seasons change–no one wants to find a ghost haunting your Christmas wreath! Consider investing in shelving units or vertical storage solutions to take advantage of unused overhead space.
If your living space lacks decent storage space, don’t let that stop you from decorating to your heart’s content. Getting a storage unit may be the way to go. Our storage units in Fort Lauderdale are a great solution for those with limited space. Climate-controlled units protect your holiday decorations from South Florida’s humidity and temperature fluctuations. We have secure, convenient options that will keep your decorations in perfect condition until it’s time to bring them out again!
We’re A Call Away!
Storing holiday decorations may not be the most glamorous part of the season, but taking the time to do it right can save you from stress and frustration next year. From decluttering unused items to investing in durable containers and climate-controlled storage units, proper storage ensures your decorations stay organized, protected, and ready to go when the holidays roll around again.
If your needs go beyond storage, like moving you and your decorations to a new home, our trusted South Florida movers are here to help. We make all moves less stressful; our goal is to get you and your most delicate holiday items to your new place safe and sound! We can move you across town or the state; no matter where you’re moving, you can rely on us to handle every job with care and professionalism!
Don’t let the hassle of post-holiday cleanup or moving get you down. Contact us today to learn how our expert storage and moving solutions can make your life easier. Looking for more tips and tricks? Be sure to read our blog for helpful advice on everything from storage solutions to making your next move a success.
We look forward to helping you protect the memories that matter most. Happy holidays, and see you next year!
Related Readings:
