The Ultimate Guide to Storing Christmas Ornaments

As the Christmas season draws to a close, many of us face the bittersweet task of taking down our festive decorations. While packing away ornaments might not be as fun as adorning the tree, proper storage is essential for preserving their beauty and ensuring they’re ready to sparkle again next year. Here are some expert tips for organizing and storing your Christmas ornaments with care.

Sort and Declutter

Before diving into storage, take time to evaluate your ornament collection. Do you have broken pieces, duplicates, or items you no longer use? Decluttering now saves space and simplifies next year’s decorating. For ornaments in good condition that you no longer want, consider donating them to someone who might cherish them.

Invest in Quality Storage Solutions

Ornaments come in all shapes, sizes, and materials, so it’s important to have the right storage containers. Look for ornament storage boxes with individual compartments or dividers to protect delicate items. Many options are available with padded interiors, adjustable sections, and sturdy exteriors to safeguard fragile glass and intricately detailed ornaments, like those from Old World Christmas.

Repurpose Household Items

If specialty storage boxes aren’t an option, household items can work just as well. Egg cartons are great for small ornaments, while plastic cups placed in bins can cradle larger ones. Tissue paper, bubble wrap, or even clean socks can be used to wrap fragile ornaments. For extra protection, layer padding between stacked items.

Label and Categorize

Make next year’s decorating easier by labeling your storage containers. Group ornaments by theme, color, or type—whatever makes sense for your holiday style. For example, you might store all your Old World Christmas food-themed ornaments in one box and your elegant silver and gold ornaments in another. 

Protect Delicate Pieces

For particularly fragile ornaments, such as hand-painted glass or those with intricate details, extra care is essential. Wrap these items individually in acid-free tissue paper to prevent discoloration and scratches. Consider storing them in the Old World Christmas Storage Box.

Control Climate and Humidity

Ornaments are best stored in a cool, dry place. Avoid areas like attics or basements where temperature and humidity fluctuations can cause damage. Mold, mildew, and warping can ruin your precious decorations, so opt for climate-controlled spaces whenever possible.

Keep Hooks and Accessories Together

Don’t forget about ornament hooks, ribbons, and tree toppers. Store these small accessories in labeled zip-top bags or a designated compartment within your storage bins. Keeping everything together will save time and frustration when it’s time to decorate again.

Make It a Family Tradition

Turn ornament storage into a fun family activity. Share stories about your favorite ornaments, and involve everyone in carefully packing them away. This not only ensures the task gets done efficiently but also creates lasting memories.

By investing a little time and care into proper ornament storage, you can protect your treasured decorations for years to come. Whether it’s a whimsical pickle ornament, a sparkling glass star, or a cherished family heirloom, each piece deserves thoughtful preservation. With these tips, you’ll be ready to unwrap the magic of Christmas again next year, stress-free and with ornaments that look as beautiful as ever.

 

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Written by

Rachael Mitchell

Rachael Mitchell is a freelance writer based in Seattle, Washington, and has over 15 years of writing experience. She’d never be able to pick just one favorite ornament, but narrowed it down to the S’more and Tennis Ball. She always looks forward to s’mores in the summer with friends and family adding gourmet ingredients, and played 4 years of college tennis in the mid-west.

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