Your artificial Christmas tree is an investment that should last a decade or more, but improper storage is one of the quickest ways to damage it. Crushed branches, faded needles, rusty hinges, and musty odours can all result from careless end-of-season storage. With the right approach, your tree will emerge each November looking as good as the day you bought it.
This guide covers everything you need to know about storing your artificial Christmas tree properly, from pre-storage cleaning to choosing the right storage location and container.
Preparing Your Tree for Storage
Proper storage begins before you even pack the tree away. These steps ensure your tree goes into storage in the best possible condition.
Step 1: Remove All Decorations
Take off every ornament, light string (if not pre-lit), garland, and decoration. Check deep within the branches for forgotten items. Leaving decorations on can cause branch damage and attract pests.
Step 2: Clean Thoroughly
- Vacuum all branches using a soft brush attachment on the lowest setting.
- Wipe any dusty or sticky areas with a lightly dampened cloth.
- Address any stains or marks before storing.
- If your tree has been near a fireplace or candles, check for soot deposits.
Step 3: Dry Completely
Warning
Never store a damp tree. Moisture trapped in storage leads to mould, mildew, rust on wire components, and musty odours that can be impossible to remove. Allow at least 24 hours for any cleaned areas to dry completely.
Step 4: Inspect for Damage
Check for any damage that needs addressing before next season:
- Bent or broken branches
- Missing sections or loose components
- Faulty lights on pre-lit trees
- Rust spots on metal parts
Choosing Storage Containers
The container you use significantly impacts how well your tree is protected during the off-season.
Tree Storage Bags
Purpose-made fabric or semi-rigid bags are the most popular option for many families.
- Pros: Affordable, lightweight, easy to store, protect from dust and pests.
- Cons: Offer limited protection from crushing, may compress branches.
- Best for: Trees stored in protected, low-traffic areas.
Rolling Tree Bags
Upright bags on wheels that store trees vertically without disassembly.
- Pros: No disassembly required, easy transport, maintains branch shape.
- Cons: Expensive, require tall storage space, bulky.
- Best for: Large premium trees you want to maintain in perfect condition.
Hard-Sided Cases
Rigid plastic or hard-shell containers that offer maximum protection.
- Pros: Best protection from crushing, pests, and moisture; stackable.
- Cons: Most expensive option, take up more storage space.
- Best for: Premium trees, or storage in garages or sheds where conditions are variable.
Original Packaging
- Pros: Free, designed for the tree, often compact.
- Cons: Cardboard deteriorates over time, offers limited protection from moisture and pests.
- Best for: Short-term storage or budget-conscious families with climate-controlled storage.
Pro Tip
Whatever container you use, add silica gel packets or cedar blocks to absorb moisture and deter pests. Never use mothballs, as the chemical smell can transfer to your tree.
Ideal Storage Locations
Where you store your tree matters as much as how you store it.
Best Options
- Climate-controlled storage units: Ideal but expensive.
- Interior closets: Protected from temperature extremes and humidity.
- Spare rooms: If space permits, a dedicated corner works well.
- Finished basements: Generally suitable if humidity is controlled.
Acceptable Options
- Attached garages: Use robust containers to protect from temperature swings.
- Attics: Can work if well-insulated and ventilated, but Australian summer attic temperatures can be extreme.
Locations to Avoid
- Damp basements: Humidity promotes mould and rust.
- Unconditioned sheds: Temperature extremes and pest exposure.
- Outdoor areas: Never store your tree outside, even in a container.
Key Takeaway
The biggest enemies of stored Christmas trees are moisture, extreme heat, direct sunlight, and pests. Protect against all four for optimal results.
Storage Techniques by Tree Type
Hinged Trees (Most Common)
- Collapse branches up against the central pole section by section.
- Separate tree into its component sections.
- Wrap each section individually in old sheets or fabric (not plastic) to prevent scratching.
- Place in your chosen container with the heaviest sections at the bottom.
Hook-In Branch Trees
- Remove branches in reverse order of assembly.
- Group branches by section and secure with twist ties or rubber bands.
- Store the pole sections separately.
- Keep hook labels visible for easy reassembly.
Pre-Lit Trees
Take extra care with pre-lit trees to protect the integrated wiring:
- Never wrap branches tightly, as this can damage light wires.
- Avoid stacking heavy items on top of pre-lit sections.
- Test lights before storing and note any issues.
- Keep spare bulbs with the tree for next year.
Storing Accessories
Don't forget about tree-related accessories:
- Tree stand: Clean, dry, and store with the tree or separately.
- Tree skirt: Wash or dry clean, fold carefully, store protected from pests.
- Tree topper: Store in a rigid container to prevent crushing.
- Light strings (if separate): Wind around cardboard or purpose-made reels to prevent tangling.
Annual Maintenance Reminders
Create a routine for optimal tree longevity:
- Clean before storing every year.
- Inspect container condition annually and replace if deteriorating.
- Check storage location for signs of moisture or pest intrusion.
- Test pre-lit trees when setting up each year.
- Rotate storage position if in a location with uneven conditions.
Proper storage takes a little extra time at the end of each Christmas season, but the payoff is a tree that looks fresh and full year after year. Invest in good storage practices now, and your tree will reward you with many seasons of beautiful festive displays.
For more care tips, read our complete guide on How to Maintain Your Artificial Christmas Tree.