Post-Holiday Cleanup: Organizing and Storing Your Decorations

The holiday season has come and gone, leaving memories to cherish and decorations to pack away. While the prospect of post-holiday cleanup may seem daunting, a little organization can make next year's setup a breeze. With the right strategies, you can safely store your decorations and reclaim your living spaces without stress. Here's how to tackle your post-holiday cleanup like a pro.

Sort Before You Store

Before you start packing, take time to sort through your decorations. Are there items you didn't use this year? Are there broken ornaments or burned-out lights that need to be discarded? Create three piles: keep, donate, and toss. This will help reduce clutter and ensure you only store items you truly love and use.

Invest in Proper Storage Solutions

Protecting your decorations is key to keeping them in great shape for years to come. Here are some storage tips:

• Ornaments: Use specially designed ornament storage boxes with individual compartments, or repurpose egg cartons and plastic cups for a budget-friendly option.
• Lights: Avoid tangled messes by wrapping lights around cardboard pieces or using a spool organizer.
• Wreaths: Store wreaths in dedicated storage bags or large plastic bins to prevent them from losing their shape.
• Garlands: Coil garlands carefully and secure them with twist ties or zip ties before placing them in a bin.

Label Everything

Labeling is a small step that saves big time. Clearly mark each box or bin with its contents, such as "Tree Ornaments," "Outdoor Lights," or "Kitchen Decor." If you're feeling extra organized, create a detailed inventory list and keep it handy for next year's decorating.

Store Decorations in a Safe Location

Choose a storage area that is dry, cool, and free from pests. Attics, basements, or closets are popular options. If you're using a garage or shed, ensure your decorations are in durable, waterproof containers to protect them from moisture. 

Make Cleanup a Team Effort

Involve the whole family in post-holiday cleanup. Assign tasks to different members, like sorting, wrapping, or labeling, to make the process quicker and more enjoyable. You can even play some music or turn it into a game to keep spirits high.

Plan for Next Year

As you pack, take note of items you might need to replace or add for next year. Did you run out of hooks for ornaments? Could you use another strand of lights? Create a shopping list now so you're ready when sales roll around.

Keep Cleaning Supplies Handy

Holiday cleanup isn't just about the decorations. Vacuum up stray pine needles, wipe down surfaces, and refresh your space with a deep clean to truly reset your home for the new year.

By following these steps, you can wrap up the holiday season with ease and look forward to a stress-free decorating experience next year.

For all your home-care needs, from storage solutions to cleaning supplies, visit Baker's Ace Hardware in Monroe, MI. We're here to help you keep your home in tip-top shape all year round!