Smart Ways to Store Christmas Lights: 1 Minute to Efficiently Organize Your Holiday Decor

Storing Christmas lights can feel like an annual battle against knots, tangles, and broken bulbs. Given how easily the wires and delicate bulbs become a jumbled mess, finding a smart storage strategy saves both time and frustration when the next holiday season rolls around. Here’s a rundown of the most effective ways to neatly store your holiday lights—and as a designer, I’ll also point out how a thoughtful approach can keep your storage space stylish and efficient.

1. Use Cardboard Organizers: Cut a piece of sturdy cardboard into a rectangle and notch the edges. Wind the lights around the board, tucking the ends in place. This separates each string and makes them easy to pull out next year. Plus, you can stack these boards vertically inside a storage box for compact organization.

2. Upcycle Everyday Items: An empty coffee can or plastic bottle can double as a reel for winding lights. Simply cut a slit for the plug end to secure, then wind carefully. This not only prevents tangles but allows the entire strand to be distributed in one continuous motion—much like how interior designers stage cords behind furniture for a seamless look.

3. Invest in Storage Reels or Spools: Commercially available light reels keep your lights tangle-free and are often stackable. Many also have handles for easy unwinding. Choose clear or color-coded reels for additional visual organization, channeling the type of “zoning” we use in room planning.

4. Ziplock Bags for Short Strands: For small or delicate string lights, coil them loosely and tuck them into a resealable bag. Label each bag for quick identification. Designers often recommend clear storage to reduce visual clutter, a principle that works for ornament and light storage alike.

5. Labeled Storage Bins: Once lights are coiled and secured, store them in bins labeled by location (e.g., “outdoor garland,” “tree lights”). Choose stackable bins in neutral colors to keep your storage closet streamlined. As with home designer-approved storage solutions, a tidy, well-labeled system makes retrieval and setup much easier.

The key is a system tailored to the space you have—just like designing a closet or utility room to fit your home’s floor plan. Proactive storage keeps your lights, and your entire decor storage area, looking as intentional as the rooms you style each year.

Tips 1:

Wrap each light strand around its own organizer to eliminate friction, which helps bulbs last longer. And always check for burned-out bulbs before packing away—replacing them now saves a headache next year.

FAQ

Q: What is the best way to prevent Christmas lights from tangling?

A: Wrapping each strand around a piece of notched cardboard or a spool prevents tangling and makes them easier to unravel next year.

Q: Can Christmas lights be stored outside in a shed or garage?

A: It’s best to store lights in a climate-controlled area; extreme heat or cold can damage wiring and bulbs over time.

Q: How do I safely store outdoor Christmas lights?

A: Ensure outdoor lights are completely dry before storing, and use sturdy airtight bins to protect from moisture and pests.

Q: Are there DIY options for Christmas light storage?

A: Absolutely—use recycled items like plastic bottles, cardboard, or coffee cans to create quick, affordable organizers.

Q: What should I do before storing Christmas lights?

A: Untangle, inspect for damage, test each strand, and replace burned-out bulbs before neatly coiling and storing.