How to Store Ornaments Without Losing Your Holiday Sanity

Let’s be honest—taking down Christmas decorations is like cleaning up after a great party. The fun is over, glitter is everywhere, and somehow, an ornament has lost its head. But storing your custom ornaments doesn’t have to feel like wrapping spaghetti in bubble wrap. With a little planning and the right storage containers, you can keep your holiday treasures safe, neat, and ready to shine next year.

Let’s unwrap the best way to store ornaments—from glass balls to glittery snowmen—with tips so smart, even your future self will say, “Wow, who was I?!”

Ornament Storage Basics – Start With the Right Stuff

Choose the Best Ornament Storage Container

Let’s start with the MVP: your ornament storage container. You’ve got options. Some people swear by clear plastic bins with adjustable dividers, others repurpose original boxes (yep, the ones your ornaments came in). If you’re fancy, you might even use special boxes with removable trays designed to cradle each ornament like a newborn.

For easy access and visibility, clear storage bins are a great idea. You can see what’s inside without opening five boxes labeled “Misc. Sparkle Stuff.”

Cardboard Dividers & Adjustable Options

For maximum protection, consider using cardboard dividers or adjustable dividers. These help separate fragile ornaments from the not-so-fragile candy cane you accidentally bit into last year.

Bubble Wrap vs. Paper Towel Showdown

When wrapping glass ornaments, go gentle. Use acid-free tissue paper, soft paper towel, or bubble wrap—but please, no napkins from last week’s lunch. These wrapping MVPs prevent scratches, chips, and full-on ornament heartbreak.

Storing Ornaments by Type of Ornament

Delicate Ornaments Deserve Special Treatment

Got Hallmark Keepsake Ornaments or vintage glass balls passed down from Grandma? Store each one separately using mini boxes or wrap them in acid-free tissue and tuck into a Christmas Ornament Storage Box with removable trays.

Store Smaller Ornaments Together

Smaller ornaments can be grouped in egg cartons, cupcake containers (yes, really), or layered into smaller bins inside a large bin.

Organizing Other Holiday Decorations

What About Christmas Lights and Tree Stuff?

Tangled Christmas lights are basically holiday punishment. Wrap them around a piece of cardboard, a plastic hanger, or a dedicated spool. Place them in their own storage bins, far away from anything fragile.

Need to store your artificial tree? Get a proper tree bag—not the duffel bag you used for soccer in high school. A climate controlled area like your basement or closet is the best option.

Creative Ways to Store Ornaments (AKA Ornament Storage Hacks)

Use Ornament Organizer Bags

A good ornament organizer (or Ornament Storage Bag) has sturdy handles, removable trays, and compartments for ornaments of different sizes. Think of it as a spa day for your decor.

Clear Plastic Bins Are Your Best Friend

Still wondering the best way to store? You can’t go wrong with clear plastic bins from Home Depot or your favorite local store. Add labels like “glass,” “soft,” “oddly shaped Santa,” and thank yourself later.

Storing Decorations in Tight Spaces

Maximize Your Storage Space

If your storage area is more like a closet stuffed with holiday dreams, consider going vertical. Stack Christmas Storage Boxes or tuck ornament boxes under your bed. You can even rent a storage unit if you’re all-in on the Best Christmas vibes year-round.

Tips to Avoid Broken Ornaments and Regrets

Never Store Ornaments in a Plastic Bag

Just… don’t. Even if it’s tempting. A plastic bag gives zero protection. Think of it as giving your ornaments a one-way ticket to Brokenville.

Keep Them in a Safe Place

A safe place means away from heat, water, pets, and kids with curious hands. Aim for a climate controlled area, like a closet, attic (as long as it doesn’t roast), or extra pantry.

Bonus Round – Extra Storage Tips for the Organized Overachiever

Store by Color or Theme

Want to level up? Group ornaments by color, style, or tree theme. Label each Christmas Ornament Storage Box accordingly. Boom. You’re now a storage wizard.

Document What You Stored (Yes, Seriously)

Keep a short note or even take a picture of what’s inside each bin. Tape it to the outside or save it digitally with a note like, “Bin #3 – Glass & Vintage, NOT KID-FRIENDLY!”

Make Use of Gift Wrap Storage

Got a Gift Wrap Storage bin? Use it to store ribbons, garlands, and even tinsel. Just don’t mix it with your ornaments unless chaos is your thing.

FAQ: The Best Christmas Ornament Storage Ideas

What’s the best way to store ornaments?

Use sturdy, sectioned containers with padding like bubble wrap, tissue paper, or removable trays. Keep them in a climate controlled area and label everything.

Can I just use the original boxes?

Absolutely. Original boxes are designed for that ornament’s shape. Just add extra padding if the box is old or flimsy.

What if I broke ornaments last year?

Let’s avoid that this time. Invest in storage containers made for Christmas decorations—especially for glass ornaments and delicate ornaments.

Where should I store everything?

If possible, store decorations in a storage unit, closet, or garage that stays dry and temperate. Avoid cramming everything into the crawl space or attic with no airflow.

One Last Ornament Storage Hack Before You Go

Don’t forget: your future self will love you for taking the time to pack things right. Whether you’ve got hand-painted heirlooms or just really love the Christmas tree decoration your cat knocked off last year, proper storage means they’ll be back in action for the holiday season ahead.

Also, never store personal information, like your email address, with your decorations. (You’d be surprised.)

And yes—we promise—this is the last tip: write yourself a little note for next year. Something like, “Don’t forget: Bin #2 has glitter… lots of glitter.”

Want help making custom holiday decorations, ornaments, or festive swag for your company? The Monterey Company can turn your brightest ideas into keepsakes worth saving (and yes, we’ll even suggest the best ornament storage hack to go with them). 🎄