Best Way to Store Christmas Lights and Decorations

As the holiday season wraps up, one last task remains; packing up your Christmas decorations. We all know, all too well, taking it all down doesn’t have the same magic as putting it up. Stay strong and resist the temptation to simply throw it all back into the bins. Let’s be honest—nothing ruins next year’s holiday spirit faster than discovering a tangled mess of lights, broken bulbs, or holey/torn inflatables. With a little extra effort now, you can save yourself a lot of headaches later. Proper storage is the key to keeping your Christmas lights, neon signs, inflatables, and other décor in perfect condition. We’ve got the tips you need to make sure your holiday favorites are ready to shine bright next season.

How to Store Christmas String Lights

Prepare

Before storing, check each strand for damaged or burnt-out bulbs and replace them as needed.

Wrap

Wrapping string lights is the perfect way to keep them organized and tangle free. Here are some of our favorite wrapping tricks.

• Cardboard Wrap: Cut a piece of sturdy cardboard into a rectangle. Make small slits at each end to secure the plugs. Wrap the light strand around the cardboard, ensuring it's snug but not too tight to prevent wire damage.
• Paper Towel Roll: An oldy but goody, stick the light strand’s plug into the end of the cardboard roll and then start wrapping. We recommend this for shorter strands to ensure the lights stay tangle-free.
• Light Reels: Use a commercial light reel to wind the lights neatly, which simplifies both storage and future installation.

Store

Store lights in a cool, dry place to prevent moisture damage. Avoid areas with extreme temperatures, such as attics or unheated garages, as they can degrade the wires and bulbs.

How to Store LED Neon and Rope Light Signs

Prepare

Before storing your LED sign, unplug it and let it cool completely. Clean the surface with a soft, dry cloth to remove dust and fingerprints, being careful around fragile areas like the tubing.

Wrap

Neon signs are delicate, so proper wrapping is essential:

• strong>Bubble Wrap: Wrap the sign entirely in bubble wrap, paying extra attention to areas where the neon strip light connects to the frame.
• strong>Foam Padding: Add foam padding to the corners and other vulnerable parts for extra protection.

Store

Place the wrapped sign in a sturdy box, preferably its original packaging. Store it upright in a temperature-controlled space to avoid cracking or damage caused by temperature fluctuations. Avoid stacking heavy items on top of the box to prevent pressure on the sign.

How to Store Inflatables

Prepare

Clean the inflatable thoroughly with a mild soap solution to remove dirt and debris. Ensure it’s completely dry before storing to prevent mold or mildew.

Fold

Deflate the inflatable entirely, making sure to remove all air. Follow the original fold lines or create clean, flat folds to minimize stress on seams and fabric.

Store

Pack the inflatable in a durable storage bag or plastic bin. Place stakes, tethers, and the motor/fan in separate labeled bags to keep everything organized. Store in a cool, dry area away from sharp objects or heavy items.

How to Store LED Rope and LED Strip Lights

Prepare

Check your rope lights or strip lights for any damage or discoloration on the lights. Wipe the surface with a damp cloth and let it dry completely to avoid moisture damage.

Wrap

• Loose Coiling: Coil rope or strip lights loosely to avoid sharp bends that could damage internal wiring.
• Spools: Use a spool or create your own with a sturdy piece of plastic or cardboard to keep the coils uniform and tangle-free.

Store

Place the wrapped lights in a sealed plastic bag or container to protect them from dust and moisture. Keep them in a cool, temperature-stable environment to prevent the plastic casing from becoming brittle.