"Tangled holiday lights can be a nightmare," says Gina Nuccitelli, Property owner and Manager of Doud Apartment Homes. "Whether you have a small storage space or plenty of room to put string lights at the end of the holiday season, make sure you take the time to do it right."
Storing holiday decorations properly can help prevent tangling and damage, making it easier to get in the holiday spirit the following year. Choose the storage solution method that suits your preferences and the available storage space.
Make a DIY Spool Using a Piece of Cardboard
Create a spool by cutting a small slit into the sides of a rectangular piece of sturdy cardboard. Secure one end of the lights in the slit and wrap the lights around the cardboard. Once you've wrapped the entire light string, you can keep it organized in a storage container.
Upcycle Paper Tubes or PVC Pipes
Use cardboard tubes, such as an empty wrapping paper tube, or use plastic PVC pipes. Wind the string of lights around the tube and secure the ends.
Use Zip Ties, Cable Ties, or Twist Ties
Bundle the lights together and secure them with strong, convenient ties. This method helps prevent tangling or unraveling while in their storage location, and keeps the lights organized.
Invest in Cord Reels or Spools
Invest in plastic light reels or spools specifically designed for string lights. These often come with built-in handles for easy winding and unwinding. Alternatively, repurpose a hose reel to store strings of lights. Wind the lights around the reel, securing the ends in the process.
Reuse Plastic Bags
Neatly place each strand of lights in an individual plastic bag, then store them in a larger storage box. This prevents tangling between strands and protects the lights from dust and moisture.
Binder Clips or Clothespins
Use binder clips or clothespins to secure the ends of each light strand. Hang the strands on a hanger or a string in a closet.
Tension Rods
Hang tension rods in a storage bin or box and drape the lights over the rods. Limited on space? You can also hang the tension rod in the back of a closet. Coil the light strands, place them on the rod, and they'll stay put until next year. This is especially good for icicle lights which are quick to tangle when confined in a cardboard box.
