Shining Bright: A Guide on Properly Storing Christmas Lights
‘Tis the season to be jolly, and what better way to spread the holiday cheer than with a dazzling display of Christmas lights adorning your home? At Shine, we understand the importance of not only expertly installing holiday lights but also ensuring they’re stored properly for longevity and easy use in the years to come. We’ll guide you through the steps on how to properly store your Christmas lights, ensuring they sparkle just as brilliantly next holiday season.
Gather Your Christmas Storage Supplies:
Before you begin the storage process, gather the necessary supplies. You’ll need sturdy storage containers, twist ties or cable organizers, and labels. Investing in quality containers will protect your lights from dust, moisture, and potential damage during storage. Don’t have the right supplies? Or too busy to get them? Reach out to your local Shine team to set up a hassle-free plan for your holiday lighting experience!
Inspect and Untangle Christmas Light Strands:
Before packing away your lights, take the time to inspect each strand. Replace any burned-out or damaged bulbs and ensure all the lights are working correctly. Once you’ve done that, carefully untangle the strands to make the installation process smoother next year.
Wrap Them Right:
One of the keys to preventing tangles and damage is to wrap your Christmas lights correctly. Start at one end and wind the lights around your hand, creating a loop. Secure the loop with a twist tie or use a cable organizer to keep the lights in place. Avoid wrapping the lights too tightly, as this can lead to damage.
Label Your Strands:
To make the setup process easier next year, label each strand of lights before storing them. You can use masking tape or small adhesive labels to indicate where the lights were used, such as “Front Porch” or “Living Room Windows.” This simple step will save you time and frustration when it’s time to decorate again.
Invest in Storage Solutions:
Consider investing in specialized Christmas light storage solutions. These containers are designed to protect your lights from the elements and keep them organized. Some even come with built-in spools for easy winding and unwinding.
Store in a Cool, Dry Place:
Proper storage conditions are crucial for maintaining the integrity of your Christmas lights. Choose a cool, dry place to store them, such as a garage or a closet. Avoid areas prone to extreme temperatures, as excessive heat or cold can affect the performance of your lights. If you don’t have the capacity to store your lights, don’t hesitate to reach out to the Shine Holiday Lighting team near you to learn about our holiday lighting package that takes care of everything from design, to installation, to removal, and of course, storage!
Avoid Overloading Containers:
While it might be tempting to toss all your lights into a single container, resist the urge to overload. Storing too many lights in one container can lead to breakage and tangling. Instead, use multiple containers and organize them based on where the lights were used.
With the proper care and storage, your Christmas lights will shine bright for many holiday seasons to come. At Shine, we not only provide expert holiday light installation but also offer removal and storage of your lights, to ensure they are properly taken care of for the following season. The Shine Holiday Lighting Experts can help you maintain and enjoy your festive decorations year after year. So, as you bid adieu to this year’s holiday season, follow our guide and ensure that your lights are ready to illuminate the magic of the next one. Happy decorating!
