Homeowners and renters living in small spaces struggle with the challenge of storing holiday decorations and other seasonal items. To say it's daunting is to put it lightly. Fortunately, there are lots of great organizational systems and storage solutions that make it easier to optimize your storage space.
Declutter and Prioritize
Before you pack away your holiday decorations, take the opportunity to declutter. "Evaluate your decor and lights and only keep precious items that hold sentimental value or are essential for your celebrations," recommends Gina Nuccitelli, Property owner and Manager of Doud Apartment Homes. "This step will help reduce the overall storage volume. It's also a great opportunity to donate or sell some holiday items you no longer wish to keep."
"Looking ahead, consider choosing small, space-saving holiday decorations that are equally festive. Miniature trees, compact ornaments, and slim wreaths can be just as charming and take up less room."
Use Clear Containers
"Transparent storage totes are a lifesaver when it comes to small spaces. Use clear bins for storing decorations and outdoor lights, as they allow you to see the contents without opening each container. Use bold labels so you know what's what." recommends Nuccitelli.
Use an Upright Bag for Your Faux Tree
It's always hard to store large pieces of holiday decor, but here's a tip: Use your vertical space. Store your artificial tree in the back of your closet using an upright tree bag. Bonus: It'll keep it dust-free from season to season.
Wrapping paper is another thing you can easily stand upright in the back of your closet. Save an old bucket or wastebasket to contain them. You can even lay the gift tags in the bottom of the basket so all the supplies stay together.
Wrap Holiday Lights Neatly
Prevent tangles when you're storing holiday string lights. "Light reels can be bulky. Wrap them around cardboard tubes or plastic cable organizers to prevent tangling," suggests Nuccitelli. "Secure the ends of the cords with rubber bands or zip ties." At that point, it's easier to store them in compact containers.
Make the Most of Under-Bed Storage
The space under your bed is a valuable storage area for delicate items because once they're safely tucked under the bed frame, nothing will damage them. Upcycle cardboard boxes into ornament storage boxes with cardboard dividers for delicate ornaments. Egg cartons work great, too, just wrap the ornaments in leftover tissue paper or thin bubble wrap for added protection.
Use storage boxes for artificial wreath storage. You can also invest in under-bed storage bins or containers for this purpose. Seasonal decorations never felt so out of the way.
Use Vacuum-Sealed Bags
Vacuum-sealed storage bags are excellent for compressing bulky items like inflatables or large decor. Squeeze out excess air to reduce the volume, making it easier to tuck them away in a closet or under the bed. Zip-lock bags also work to help keep things neat and organized.
Invest in Dual-Purpose Decor
Opt for holiday decor that can serve dual purposes. Nuccitelli recommends storage ottomans or benches that can be used year-round and provide hidden storage for seasonal items. Similarly, entrance tables and cabinets can also provide space for gift bags and smaller plastic totes; always look for furniture with a cabinet or shelf when shopping for small spaces.
Use Pillow Covers
Hidden in plain sight. "Pillow covers are an awesome way to change up your seasonal throw pillows," says Nuccitelli. "Look for covers that are washable to transform the look for holidays and seasons." Slip them right over the seasonal designs, and remove them next holiday season when you're ready to re-accessorize for the holiday.
Use Upper Closet and Cabinet Space
There may be more space than you realize in your guest room closet and the topmost shelves in your kitchen. After all, you never put anything up there that you need to reach regularly. Holiday decor doesn't have to be easily accessible so this is a great way to put those hard-to-reach spaces to work. It's the perfect spot for holiday storage.
Following these tips can help you make the most of your tight spaces and enjoy a beautifully decorated home during the holiday season. Creativity and organization are keys to managing holiday decor and lights in small living spaces.
