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Before you set up your artificial Christmas tree, take 30 minutes to give it a proper cleaning. It deserves it!
Artificial trees often spend the majority of the year in storage. It's no surprise that one would emerge, ready to make its grand entrance, disguised as a dust magnet. Even when cautiously packed in a storage bag or container, it can become a nesting spot for spiders and other home pests.
One of the biggest reasons you should clean your artificial tree is to eliminate dust and reduce the likelihood of indoor allergies and dust mite allergies. Cleaning the faux branches of an artificial tree also helps to refresh and revitalize the needles and help it continue to be a shining centerpiece of your Christmas decor.
There are a few different cleaning processes you can try: dusting, shaking, leaf blowing, vacuuming, and spray bottle cleaning. After that, add artificial tree fragrance for extra effect.
How did my artificial tree get so musty in storage?
Musty odors develop when trees are stored in damp environments like basements or attics with poor ventilation. Are your storage spaces humid during the summer? That might be the cause.
Mold spores, mildew, and dust mites can grow on dust that settled into the branches. While running dehumidifiers in the space year-round is an option, also consider storing your tree in a breathable zippered storage bag rather than plastic when you pack it up after the holiday season.
How to Clean an Artificial Christmas Tree
Option 1: Dust the Tree
"The most gentle method of cleaning a faux tree involves a soft-bristled brush and a microfiber cloth," shares Aaron Christensen, the resident cleaning expert and VP of Growth at Homeaglow. "Not only will this help to clean the tree, but you can reshape branch tips and needles as you go."
Option 2: Shake the Branches
Give your tree branches a good shake at both the beginning and the end of the holiday season. Not only does it help reduce loose dust, but it'll help drop loose "leaves" or "needles." Be sure to use a dustpan and brush to pick up fallen plastics.
"If you're unable to take your tree outdoors, place each branch inside a garbage bag and shake it inside the bag," recommends Christensen.
Bonus advice: "For a deeper clean when shaking, you can pour two cups of salt into a garbage bag. Adding one section and piece of the tree at a time, give the bag a good shake. The salt will attract any dust caught in the tree and leave it looking fresher and brighter."
Option 3: Blast it With a Leaf Blower
Taking the tree outside and giving it a little air from your fall leaf blower may seem excessive (and yes, your neighbors will side-eye you), but it's an yet another way of removing dust and debris from the faux pine branches.
In case it needs to be said: Don't go full-throttle. Instead, start at the top and lightly puff air at each branch. Work top to bottom, rotating the tree as you go. (A blow dryer can also work wonders.)
Option 4: Use a Vacuum Cleaner
Before you use a handheld vacuum cleaner to clean an artificial Christmas tree, check the strength of the suction and the hold of the "leaves" on the tree. To do this:
- Cover the end of the nozzle with a piece of mesh. Use a strong rubber band to secure it to the end, or be prepared to hold it in place.
- Test the capped hose on an inconspicuous area of the tree. Make sure it doesn't cause any damage, both to the condition of the needles and to any frosted tree "artificial snow" that tops the needles and branches.
- Try other attachments. Alternatively, you can try a brush attachment on the end of the vacuum to agitate dust buildup from the artificial tree branches.
If it appears to cause damage, do not use the vacuum. If it seems fine, continue to use the vacuum to remove dust particles. It's quite effective for some trees, especially for the dust in crevices!
Option 5: Spray it With Soapy Water
This method should be tested in an inconspicuous area and shouldn't be used on pre-lit trees or other artificial trees with electrical mechanisms.
Create a gentle cleaning solution:
- Mix two cups of warm water and one teaspoon of mild dish soap in a spray bottle. Give the bottle a shake to combine the soap and water.
- Starting from the top, lightly spray the branches
- Leave the moisture on the branch for 30 seconds, then wipe with a clean dry cloth, dry microfiber cloth, or paper towel. (If any color runs during your trial, avoid moisture and use a different cleaning method instead.)
- Repeat. Continue to clean until you have sprayed and wiped down every individual branch, as well as the center "trunk" section.
- Clean the base. The fake tree stand also holds a lot of dust.
- Allow the tree to air dry.
And then... Add Fragrance
If your artificial tree had a faux pine scent when you purchased it, after years in the closet or attic, it likely has faded. Conquer musty odor by adding new artificial tree fragrance or pine-scented ornaments to your tree. It can make it smell just as good as real trees.
FAQ
How often should I clean my artificial Christmas tree?
Give your artificial tree two seasonal cleanings—once before setup and once before storage.
The pre-setup cleaning removes dust, allergens, and pests that accumulated during storage.
The post-holiday cleaning prevents dirt and debris from settling into the branches for months. And remember: fake trees stored in basements or garages need more attention than those in climate-controlled spaces. Set up a dehumidifier in your storage space if you think it'll help.
Can I wash my pre-lit artificial Christmas tree?
No. Avoid water-based cleaning methods on pre-lit trees. Moisture can damage the electrical wiring, corrode light sockets, make the lights malfunction, and create safety hazards. Use dry methods like dusting, vacuuming with a brush attachment, or the salt-in-a-bag technique.
If you must spot-clean a stain, use minimal moisture on a microfiber towel and keep it away from all wiring and light connections.
What's the best way to store artificial Christmas trees to minimize cleaning next year?
Wrap individual branches or sections in tissue paper or old bedsheets before placing them in the storage container. Only if possible should you stand the tree upright... it helps to prevent branches from becoming misshapen, but it isn't practical for many folks.
Remember: Airtight containers protect against dust but can trap moisture, so leave a small gap for air circulation.
