How to Store Your Artificial Christmas Tree to Extend Its Life and Simplify This Year’s Decorating

Artificial Christmas trees are increasingly becoming a popular choice over real ones, and for good reason. They’re easier to transport, eliminating the need for a potentially stressful (and precarious) car ride to get them home. They also save money since you won’t have to purchase a new tree each year. Additionally, they come in a variety of styles—from the classic green tree to fun, non-traditional options like pink or metallic varieties, catering to every holiday aesthetic.

However, in order to make your artificial tree last for many seasons to come, proper storage is key. While it might seem like a straightforward task, it actually requires a bit of effort and consideration. Here’s what the experts suggest when it comes to storing your tree for the long haul.

Remove the Ornaments
Brianna Porpora, designer and holiday curator at Jade House Design, recommends that you start by taking off any delicate or breakable ornaments and packing them away separately. But don’t just toss your ornaments into any old box. Kelly Lambert, senior merchant at Grandin Road, suggests you dust each ornament with a dry cloth before packing it up. “To keep ornaments protected while storing until next year, gently place back into the carton they arrived in or store them in an ornament-specific storage option,” she advises. “It is always best to wrap each ornament in tissue paper for extra protection. If you choose to leave the hooks attached, wrap the ornament with the hook outside of the tissue to avoid scratching the surface of the ornaments.”

And, of course, be sure to dispose of any broken ornaments that you no longer wish to use for the upcoming holiday season.

Dust the Tree
Before storing your tree, it’s a good idea to give it a quick cleaning. Lambert recommends gently dusting your tree with a microfiber cloth or feather duster. A microfiber cloth is ideal, but any soft cloth will work.

Gently Fluff and Style the Branches
If you didn’t fluff your tree’s branches when you first set it up, now is the time to do so. Fluffing the branches helps the tree achieve a fuller and more realistic look, ensuring they don’t stay stuck in the squished shape they had when the tree was originally packaged. “Once you’ve done this, every year that follows is much easier when it comes to the setup,” Lambert explains. “Some shaping will be needed each year but not as much as the initial shaping.”

How to Store Your Artificial Christmas Tree to Extend Its Life and Simplify Next Year’s Decorating
One of the best ways to ensure your tree is protected year after year is by investing in a storage solution specifically designed for artificial trees. Instead of shoving your tree back into its original box, consider using a rolling storage bag or an upright stand that allows you to keep your tree assembled and ready to go for the next season. There are options available for every tree size and storage space.

Store Everything Together
To avoid the hassle of searching for parts, it’s a good idea to keep everything related to your tree in one place. “Keep all pieces together for your tree—all of the sections, the lights, and the stand so you’re not hunting when you go to set it up again the next year,” advises Lambert.

Find a Good Spot to Store Your Tree
The ideal storage location for your tree is a cool, dry area—such as a closet or attic. Avoid storing it in a basement, as damp conditions can damage your tree over time. “Trees should be stored upright in a cool, dry area and, if possible, elevated in case the basement floods,” advises Porpora.

If you absolutely have to store your tree in a basement, try elevating it on boxes or plastic totes to protect it from potential water damage.

How to Store Your Artificial Christmas Tree to Extend Its Life and Simplify Next Year’s Decorating
Taking these extra steps to properly store your tree will help ensure that it’s in great shape for years to come—and make your holiday decorating much easier next year.