How to Store Christmas Decor Like a Pro (and Reclaim Your Space)By Elevated Mess | Los Angeles Home Organizing Experts

Dec 30

When the holidays are over, many Los Angeles homes are left with overflowing bins, tangled lights, and fragile ornaments stuffed wherever there’s room. Sound familiar? Storing Christmas décor the right way not only protects your favorite pieces—it also makes next year’s setup faster, easier, and way less stressful.

At Elevated Mess, we help LA homeowners create organized, functional homes year-round. Here’s our professional guide to storing Christmas decorations efficiently, even if you’re short on space.

Why Proper Christmas Decor Storage Matters

Before tossing everything back into the garage, consider this:

🎄 Prevents broken ornaments and damaged décor
🎄 Saves time when decorating next year
🎄 Maximizes storage in small Los Angeles homes and apartments
🎄 Reduces clutter and visual stress

Smart storage is about systems, not just bins.

Step 1: Sort and Declutter Before You Store

Before packing anything away, do a quick edit.

Ask yourself:

Did I use this decoration this year?
Is it broken, outdated, or no longer my style?
Do I realistically see myself using it again?

💡 Pro Organizer Tip: Donate gently used décor to local LA charities or neighborhood Buy Nothing groups before storage season ends.

Step 2: Use the Right Storage Containers

Avoid flimsy boxes or random bags. Invest in storage that protects and stacks well.

Best Containers for Christmas Decor:

Clear, labeled bins (easy visibility)
Hard-sided ornament cases for fragile items
Wreath storage bags to maintain shape
Document holders or cardboard dividers for wrapping paper

For Los Angeles garages, choose sealed, weather-resistant bins to protect against heat, dust, and pests.

Step 3: Store by Category (Not by Room)

Organize décor by type, not where it was used.

Examples:

Ornaments
Tree décor
Outdoor lights
Stockings & textiles
Holiday tableware

This makes it easier to decorate efficiently next year—especially if you switch things up.

Step 4: Tangle-Free Storage for Lights & Garland

Holiday lights can quickly become a nightmare.

Try these organizer-approved methods:

Wrap lights around cardboard, plastic reels, or hangers
Use zip ties or reusable Velcro straps
Store each strand in a labeled gallon zip bag

Garlands should be loosely coiled or stored in long bins to avoid crushing.

Step 5: Label Everything Clearly

Labels are non-negotiable.

Include:

Contents
Room used in
Fragile (if applicable)

✨ Bonus: Use color-coded labels or tape for different holidays.

Step 6: Choose the Best Storage Location in Your Home

In Los Angeles homes, storage space is precious.

Best places for Christmas décor:

Garage overhead racks
High closet shelves
Under-bed storage bins
Top of hall closets

Store holiday décor together and out of everyday zones so it doesn’t compete with daily essentials.

Small Space Christmas Storage Tips (LA-Approved)

Living in an apartment or bungalow?

Use slim under-bed bins
Opt for collapsible décor
Store ornaments inside your artificial tree bag
Go vertical with shelving or wall-mounted racks

Want Help Getting Organized After the Holidays?

If post-holiday clutter feels overwhelming, you don’t have to do it alone.

Elevated Mess is a professional home organizing business based in Los Angeles, specializing in:

Garage organization
Closet systems
Seasonal décor storage
Whole-home organizing solutions

We create custom, elevated systems that actually work for your lifestyle.

👉 Contact Elevated Mess today to schedule your post-holiday organizing session and start the new year clutter-free.

Maddy Hayes