5 Easy Tips for Storing Your Artificial Tree

Finding a place to store an artificial Christmas tree is a problem that plagues many of us.  In some cases, the issue is that your home is too small or doesn't have enough storage space.  In other cases, perhaps you simply have too much stuff.  Either way, one fact remains: artificial Christmas trees are bulky and awkward to store.  But the task doesn't have to be impossible.  We've got five simple tips that are sure to make the job of storing your artificial tree a little easier.

Tip #1 - Remove all decorations
If you're really cramped for storage space, then rule number one of storing your holiday tree should be to always remove all decorations.  Some families like to leave the lights or tinsel on to make decorating faster and easier next year, but the truth is that your tree will not compact the way it should if there are still decorations in the way.

Tip #2 - Compress and compact
Amazingly enough, many people still don't realize that their artificial tree is meant to be compacted.  If you own a tree that was manufactured in the last 10 to 15 years, chances are it has hinged branches.  This means that the branches are designed to fold upward against the center pole of the tree, so that each separate section compresses.  Some people even find it helpful to wrap each separate section in a sheet or pillowcase to help compact the branches even more.  Remember, every few inches you can squeeze will help when it comes time to put the tree in its storage container.

Tip #3 - Think outside the box
One of the worst ways to store your Christmas tree is in its original box.  Once it's been removed from the original box, it's nearly impossible to get it back in again.  Furthermore, cardboard boxes will wick up moisture and can attract insects.  There are numerous other storage containers and bags on the market today that are designed for artificial trees, and in many cases, they are designed to hold and compress the tree so that it take less space in storage than the original box would.

Tip #4 - Consider all possible storage locations
When deciding where to store your tree within the house, be sure to consider all possible locations.  Obvious places include closets and storage rooms, but other possibilities might include a dry attic, a storage space under the stairs, or even underneath a bed.  Be sure that you choose your storage container in conjunction with the location where the tree will be stored.  For example, if you want to fit the tree under your bed, then a storage container that measures three foot tall probably won't work; look for a long, slender container instead.

Tip #5 - Maybe it's time to downsize?
If all else fails and you're still having trouble storing your artificial Christmas tree, it may be time to reevaluate all your options.  If you live in a small home or apartment, then maybe that enormous Christmas tree is more than you really need.  Perhaps it's time to buy something new?  There's no better way to organize your storage than to downsize your possessions, especially if you are already cramped for space.