Taking Down Christmas

It's so much fun putting up the Christmas decorations, but not as much fun taking them down. First tip I can give is, take your time and use strategy while putting your beloved decor away. The more careful you are, the better your chances of having a "Merry Christmas" next year! Some basic things you'll be reusing next year are ornaments, wreaths, Christmas lights, beads, and a nativity set. On a budget? Use these tips and you'll be able to cherish your decorations for years to come!

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You'll want to save your tissue paper from the presents you opened. It works great for wrapping your ornaments if you don't have a box like this one from Stack and Stacks.

Store your wreath in a box to make sure it doesn't get crushed. If you don't have a box, use bubble wrap and store it on top of everything so it doesn't have weight on it.

Cut up the bare wrapping paper tubes into about paper towel roll size. Wrap each strand of Christmas lights around them so they don't get tangled. Make sure to put individual rolls into freezer or grocery bags so they don't get mixed together.

Separate each strand of beads into plastic sandwich bags, and store in the empty shoe box your new boots came in!

A good idea with any Nativity set is to just keep the box and wrapping it came in. If you've already pitched it, use tissue paper or bubble wrap and store it in a sturdy box.

Clear plastic boxes, like this one from Organize it Online, make it easy for you to see what is inside and helps protect from moisture better than cardboard storage containers. When stacking, put the larger, heavier boxes on the bottom and the smaller, lightweight boxes on the top. I know it seems like a no brainer, but some of us need reminding occasionally.

Be aware of the climate you store your decorations in too. If you like in the desert, you might want to find room inside your house for the candles, wax objects, and precious pictures. Throw in several packets of silica (can be purchased at craft stores or online) throughout the box to avoid moisture damage in humid climates.

By organizing your decorations when you store them, it will make finding what you want much easier when it comes time to decorate for Christmas next year. You will feel like a pro. Happy un-decorating.