It’s almost time to decorate for the holidays. Maybe you feel a little trepidation as you pull out your decorations from storage, hoping you didn’t put them away too hastily last year thinking – I deal with it next year – as so many of us do. Especially when it comes to Christmas lights, which can get tangled, dirty or even break. There are many reasons to be careful when putting away and safely storing your Christmas lights, particularly when you have smart Christmas lights that offer incredible convenience and customization. They can last for years if treated correctly.
Taking down Christmas lights is not a task many of us look forward to. It signals the end of the holiday season and, let’s face it, it can be a lot of work. However, it’s important to approach this job with care and consideration. Here are some tips to ensure your indoor and outdoor Christmas lights remain in top condition.
Prevent Christmas lights from tangling
Keep your smart LED lights organized and tangle-free for the next year. It is essential not only for hassle-free decorating and organizing but also makes storage easier. Here are some effective storage methods.
Use a Christmas light storage reel: A light reel or a large spool can be used to wrap the lights neatly as you take them down. This keeps the strands organized and prevents tangling.
Wrap lights around cardboard: If you don’t have a spool, create one by wrapping lights around a piece of cardboard. Use a large square or rectangle of cardboard from some of the Christmas packages and presents you’ve received. Cut notches along the sides to secure the ends of the light strand, making it easy to unwind when needed.
Use twist ties or Velcro straps: As you take down your indoor lights, use twist ties or Velcro straps to secure them in small bundles, preventing tangles with other strands. Twinkly smart LED lights come with Velcro straps included.
Hang lights: You can also use hooks or hangers in your garage or storage area to hang light strands instead of folding them into a box.
Plan your installation and removal: When taking down Christmas lights, remove them in the reverse order of installation to minimize any tangling and ensure a smoother process in taking down your Christmas decorations.
The best ways to store Christmas lights
Improper handling can lead to frayed wires, broken bulbs, or tangled strands which can cause a lot of headaches. Here’s how to protect your lights while they are stored.
Unplug and disconnect: Always unplug your lights from the outlet and disconnect them from any smart devices or hubs before you start removing them.
Avoid crushing or overloading: Ensure the lights are not stored under any heavy items in that may place unnecessary pressure on them. Place them on top of other items or in a dedicated space to avoid damage and crushing.
Store separately from other decorations: If you have other decorations that might tangle with or damage the lights, consider storing them separately. It is important to care for the LEDs and wires, but Twinkly smart lights also feature controllers – located between the LEDs and the plugs - that need to be protected.
Clean the lights: Wipe down the lights with a soft cloth to remove dust and prevent buildup that could cause damage. However, do not use liquids or chemicals to clean them, a soft cloth will do the trick.
Check for damage before storage: Inspect the LED lights for any signs of wear and replace burnt-out bulbs or frayed wires to prevent issues next year.
How to organize Christmas lights for storage
Properly storing Christmas smart lights can save time and frustration for next season. Here are some organizational tips:
Use a Christmas light storage box: If possible, store the string or curtain lights in their original packaging. If you longer have the original packaging, use a sturdy storage bin or container.
Label storage containers: Clearly label any storage bins or boxes with their contents, making it easier to find your lights next year.
Ziploc bags or storage bins: Place lights in Ziploc bags or plastic storage bins. Group them by color or type to keep them organized.
Keep in a cool, dry place: Store lights in a cool, dry location away from extreme temperatures, humidity, or direct sunlight. Avoid damp areas like basements that can cause damage.
Keep the smart features safe: If your smart LED lights have additional components like controllers or smart hubs, ensure they are protected from moisture.
Easy Christmas light storage hacks
Removing lights involves ladders and heights, which can pose safety risks. Follow proper safety protocols, such as using stable ladders and avoiding wet conditions to prevent accidents and injuries. Careless removal can also damage your home, so take your time to avoid causing unnecessary wear and tear.
Environmental responsibility in Christmas light storage
Taking care when removing and storing lights contributes to a more sustainable approach. By ensuring your lights are well-maintained, you reduce waste and the need for frequent replacements, which benefits the environment in the long run.
It may be tempting to hastily pack away holiday lights after the festivities, but taking time to do it right will ensure that your decorations remain beautiful and functional for years. With these Christmas light storage ideas and easy storage hacks, you can transition out of the holiday spirit with peace of mind, knowing that your lights are well cared for until next year.
