How to Wrap Christmas Lights for Storage: 10 Smart Tips to Keep Them Tangle-Free
Christmas is magical, but post-holiday clean-up? Not so much. Nothing’s worse than pulling out your Christmas lights next year only to find a tangled mess. Here’s the smart guide on how to wrap Christmas lights for storage to keep them organized and stress-free.
To wrap Christmas lights for storage, first unplug and untangle them, then use a cardboard, spool, or coat hanger to neatly wrap each strand. Store each wrapped set in a zip-top bag or box to avoid tangling and keep bulbs protected.
Want to keep your Christmas lights like new year after year? Read on for the best tips on storing holiday lights the right way.
1 Use Cardboard for a Simple Solution
One of the simplest ways to wrap Christmas lights for storage is with a piece of cardboard. Cut a piece that’s about a foot long, then carefully wrap the lights around it, ensuring they lie flat without crossing over each other. This method keeps the lights orderly and prevents the wires from bending awkwardly, which can reduce their lifespan.
2 Try a Light Spool for Hassle-Free Wrapping
If you’re looking for a more professional storage solution, consider a light spool, often available at hardware stores. These spools are built specifically for holiday lights and make it super easy to wrap and unwrap your strands without tangling. Just attach one end of the lights to the spool, then start turning!
3 Secure with Twist Ties or Zip Ties
To make sure your lights stay wrapped neatly, secure each end with twist ties or zip ties. This method is especially helpful if you don’t have a spool or cardboard handy. Tightly fastened ties prevent loose ends from causing tangles, and you can also color-code them for different types of lights, like indoor and outdoor strands.
4 Repurpose a Clothes Hanger
If you have spare hangers lying around, these can work as light organizers too. Loop one end of the light strand around the hook, then continue to wrap the strand around the body of the hanger. This method keeps lights from tangling and is easy to hang in a closet or storage space.
5 Use a Plastic Bin with Dividers
A plastic bin with dividers is a great solution if you want to store multiple strands together. After wrapping your lights on cardboard or spools, place each wrapped set into a divided bin. This way, they stay separate, and the plastic provides protection against accidental pressure or weathering in storage areas like the garage.
6 Keep Lights in Zip-Top Bags
For a budget-friendly hack, store each wrapped light set in a large zip-top bag. This keeps dust, moisture, and any other holiday decorations from tangling with your lights. It also makes it easy to label each bag with its color or length for quick decorating next year.
7 Wrap Lights Around a PVC Pipe
A PVC pipe is a sturdy option for wrapping long strands of lights. Cut a section of pipe to the length that works for you, then wrap the lights around it, securing the ends with tape or twist ties. The pipe keeps lights secure and prevents bending, which can weaken wiring over time.
8 Label Your Lights for Easy Sorting
While wrapping is important, labeling each set of lights can be a huge help. Attach a small label to the storage bag or directly onto the wrapped lights, identifying them as “outdoor,” “tree lights,” or “railing lights.” This makes next year’s decorating faster since you’ll know exactly where each set goes.
9 Store Lights in Original Packaging
If you still have the original packaging for your lights, this can be a perfect storage solution. Many lights come in fitted boxes or with plastic wrapping trays that keep them in place and protected. Simply return the lights to their boxes, and store them in a cool, dry spot.
10 Place Lights in a Storage Reel
If you’re a Christmas enthusiast with many strands of lights, invest in a storage reel. This reel is specifically made for holiday lights, and its design allows you to wrap, store, and even carry your lights with ease. Storage reels are ideal for keeping lights tangle-free and can be used for other holiday items like garlands or ribbon.
Conclusion
Using these tips on how to wrap Christmas lights for storage, you’ll keep your holiday lights organized, tangle-free, and ready for the next festive season. Whether you go with a DIY solution or a specialty product, the right storage approach will keep your lights shining bright for years to come. Happy un-decorating!
