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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.
1. Declutter Before You Store
Sort what you have before packing. Less stuff means less stress.
- Keep items used every holiday season or with sentimental value
- Donate or sell decorations you no longer enjoy
- Replace oversized pieces with smaller alternatives
"Evaluate your decor and lights and only keep precious items that hold sentimental value or are essential for your celebrations," says Gina Nuccitelli, property owner and manager of Doud Apartment Homes. Mini trees, slim wreaths, and compact ornaments feel festive and save space.
2. Use Clear Containers
Clear plastic bins save time and make storage easier.
- Store ornaments, string lights, and small decor in clear totes
- Label boldly for quick identification
- Group items by holiday or room
"Transparent storage totes are a lifesaver when it comes to small spaces," Nuccitelli says. "You can see inside without opening every box."
3. Store Tall Items Vertically
Use vertical space for large items.
Artificial trees fit in upright storage bags placed at the back of a closet. "It'll keep it dust-free from season to season," Nuccitelli adds. Wrapping paper can stand in a tall bin or old wastebasket, with gift tags at the bottom to keep supplies together.
4. Keep Holiday Lights Tangle-Free
Avoid knots and frustration.
- Wrap strands around cardboard tubes or cable organizers
- Secure ends with rubber bands or zip ties
- Store in compact bins
"Light reels can be bulky. Wrap them around cardboard tubes or plastic cable organizers to prevent tangling," suggests Nuccitelli. Neat lights take up less space and are easier to use.
5. Use Under-Bed Space
The area under your bed is perfect for items you don’t need daily.
- Store delicate ornaments in DIY ornament containers, like upcycled cardboard boxes turned into ornament storage boxes with cardboard dividers
- Wrap fragile pieces in tissue paper or thin bubble wrap
- Slide wreaths into flat storage boxes or bins
6. Compress Bulky Decorations
Inflatables and large decor take up space. Shrink them down.
Vacuum-sealed bags reduce volume so items fit under beds or on high shelves. Zip-top bags work for smaller decor and keep items together.
7. Choose Decor That Pulls Double Duty
Furniture can double as storage containers.
- Storage ottomans and benches hide seasonal items
- Cabinets and entry tables can hold gift bags and small bins
- Look for pieces with shelves or doors
8. Swap Pillow Covers
Hidden in plain sight. Seasonal pillows take space; covers are smarter.
"Look for covers that are washable to transform the look for holidays and seasons," says Nuccitelli. Slip them over pillows and store flat when not in use.
9. Use High Shelves You Rarely Reach
Top closet shelves or upper kitchen cabinets often go unused. Holiday decor doesn’t need daily access, so these spots work well for long-term storage.
How to Store Holiday String Lights
10. Keep a Simple Inventory
A quick list saves time and prevents duplicates.
- Note what you own for holiday decorating and where it’s stored
- Group items by holiday
- Update the list each year
Decorating is faster, and you avoid buying duplicates.
Seasonal decor doesn’t need to take over your home. Smart choices and thoughtful storage make even small spaces feel organized and easy to manage.
FAQ
How far in advance should I declutter seasonal decor?
Right after the season ends works best. Everything is still fresh in your mind, which makes it easier to decide what to keep or let go.
Are clear bins better than decorative storage bins?
Clear bins make it easier to see what’s inside without opening them. Decorative boxes look nice but can slow things down when you’re searching.
What’s the best way to protect fragile ornaments?
Use divided boxes, egg cartons, or small cups wrapped in tissue paper. Store them in a sturdy container that won’t shift when moved.
