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After the holidays, many people face the dreaded task of packing up Christmas decorations, and storing lights can be one of the most challenging aspects. Tangled wires, broken bulbs, and misplaced strands can turn next year’s decorating into a time-consuming headache. However, with the right approach, one can store one’s Christmas lights efficiently and protect them from damage, making the next holiday season much easier. And for those who don’t want too remember – the professionals are here to help.
This comprehensive guide provides the best tips and strategies to help one store one’s Christmas lights safely and keep them in excellent condition.
Why Proper Storage Matters
Proper storage ensures one’s Christmas lights remain untangled, functional, and easy to find when the holidays roll around again. Without care, lights can become damaged or tangled, leading to wasted time or the need for replacements. Organized storage protects one’s investment and ensures decorating remains a joyous experience.
Preparing Christmas Lights for Storage
1. Inspect One’s Lights
Before storing one’s Christmas lights, take time to inspect them for damage:
• Check for frayed wires or exposed cords that could pose a fire hazard.
• Test each strand to identify burned-out bulbs or malfunctioning sections.
• Look for bent or broken sockets that could make the lights unsafe to use.
Replace or repair any damaged lights before storing them to avoid surprises next year.
2. Clean One’s Lights
If one’s lights were displayed outdoors, they may have accumulated dirt, debris, or moisture. Wipe them down with a soft, dry cloth to remove dust and grime. For stubborn dirt, use a damp cloth and let the strands dry completely before storing them.
Best Ways to Store Christmas Lights
1. Use a Storage Reel
A storage reel is one of the most efficient ways to keep Christmas lights tangle-free. These reels work like a spool, allowing one to wind the lights neatly:
• Begin by attaching the plug end of the lights to the reel.
• Wind the strand slowly, ensuring it lies flat and doesn’t overlap.
• Store the reel in a bin or on a shelf to keep the lights protected.
Storage reels are available at most hardware stores and come in various sizes to accommodate different light lengths.
2. Wrap Lights Around Cardboard
If one doesn’t have a storage reel, a simple piece of cardboard can work just as well:
• Cut a piece of sturdy cardboard to the desired size.
• Cut small notches on the edges to hold the ends of the light strands in place.
• Wrap the lights around the cardboard in a single layer, keeping them flat and untangled.
This DIY solution is cost-effective and keeps lights organized.
3. Use Plastic Storage Containers
Plastic storage containers are ideal for keeping one’s lights safe from dust, moisture, and pests:
• Choose clear bins so one can easily see the contents.
• Coil each strand of lights neatly and secure it with a twist tie or zip tie.
• Label the bins with descriptions like “Tree Lights” or “Outdoor Lights” to save time during setup.
4. Hang Lights on a Clothes Hanger
For a creative and space-saving option, try using clothes hangers:
• Secure one end of the light strand to the hook of the hanger.
• Wrap the lights around the hanger, ensuring they stay flat and untangled.
• Hang the hanger in a closet or storage area to keep the lights in good condition.
This method works well for smaller spaces and keeps lights accessible.
5. Invest in a Christmas Light Storage Box
Some retailers sell specialized storage boxes designed specifically for Christmas lights. These boxes often include dividers, spools, or compartments to keep lights organized and protected. While they may cost more upfront, they provide a long-lasting solution for managing one’s holiday lights.
Tips for Storing Different Types of Christmas Lights
1. LED Lights
LED lights are durable and energy-efficient but can still be damaged by improper storage. Ensure they’re completely dry before storing to prevent corrosion. Use a storage reel or cardboard to avoid tangling, and keep them in a cool, dry place.
2. Outdoor Lights
Outdoor lights are more robust but may have dirt or moisture from exposure to the elements. Clean them thoroughly and store them in a weatherproof bin to protect them from humidity and pests.
3. Icicle Lights
Icicle lights are prone to tangling due to their design. Wrap them loosely around a reel, cardboard, or wide piece of plastic, ensuring the “icicle” strands hang freely without bunching.
4. Net Lights
Net lights can be folded like a blanket and stored flat in a container. To prevent them from snagging, place them in a plastic bag or between sheets of tissue paper before storage.
Organizing Christmas Lights for Easy Setup
Proper organization can save hours of frustration during next year’s decorating:
1. Label Everything
Label each strand or storage bin with details about its location or purpose, such as “Front Porch” or “Tree Lights.” This eliminates guesswork and speeds up setup.
2. Store Accessories Together
Keep light clips, extension cords, and timers stored with the corresponding lights. Use small bags or boxes to organize these accessories and prevent them from getting lost.
3. Group Lights by Type or Location
Organize lights based on where they’re used, such as indoor, outdoor, or tree lights. This ensures one can easily access the right set when needed.
Common Storage Mistakes to Avoid
1. Throwing Lights into a Box
Simply tossing lights into a box may seem quick, but it leads to tangles and damage. Taking time to wrap and secure each strand will save frustration later.
2. Storing Lights in Extreme Temperatures
Avoid storing lights in attics, garages, or sheds where temperatures can become extremely hot or cold. Prolonged exposure to extreme conditions can degrade the wires and bulbs.
3. Ignoring Moisture
Even small amounts of moisture can lead to corrosion or mold growth. Ensure all lights are completely dry before storing them.
4. Skipping Repairs
Storing broken lights will only create problems next year. Address any issues before packing them away.
Where to Store Christmas Lights
Choose a storage location that is:
• Cool and dry: Avoid areas with high humidity or temperature fluctuations.
• Accessible: Store lights where one can easily retrieve them when it’s time to decorate.
• Pest-free: Use sealed containers to protect one’s lights from rodents and insects.
Ideal locations include closets, under-bed storage, or a dedicated holiday storage area.
Benefits of Proper Light Storage
Taking the time to store one’s Christmas lights properly offers numerous benefits:
• Saves time: Organized lights are quicker and easier to set up.
• Prevents damage: Proper storage protects bulbs and wires from wear and tear.
• Reduces frustration: No more untangling messy strands or searching for missing lights.
• Increases lifespan: Well-maintained lights last longer, saving money on replacements.
Storing Christmas lights doesn’t have to be a hassle. With the right methods—such as using reels, cardboard, or storage boxes—one can keep one’s lights untangled, organized, and ready for next year. By inspecting, cleaning, and labeling one’s lights, one will save time and effort when the holiday season returns.
Investing a little time now in proper storage will ensure one’s lights shine brightly for many holidays to come, turning an annual chore into a stress-free tradition. Never forget – the professionals are here to help!