The sparkle of Christmas lights is part of what makes the holiday season feel magical. But as the festivities wind down and decorations come down, one question looms: how to store Christmas lights in a way that avoids the dreaded tangle of wires and the frustration of broken bulbs next year?
Fortunately, organizing and protecting your lights doesn’t require fancy tools—just a little planning and a few smart storage strategies. Whether you have basic string lights or oversized vintage bulbs, this guide will walk you through how to store Christmas lights properly to make your next decorating season easy and stress-free.
Why Proper Storage Matters
Improperly stored lights can suffer from:
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Tangled cords
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Cracked bulbs
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Damaged wires
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Shortened lifespan
Taking time now to store your lights correctly protects your investment and saves you from unnecessary replacements or setup delays next season.
DIY Cardboard Wraps: Budget-Friendly and Effective
One of the easiest and most accessible ways to store your lights is by creating your own wrapping system using cardboard.
How to use cardboard for light storage:
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Cut sturdy cardboard into 8″ x 12″ rectangles (or to fit your storage bin).
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Snip a small slit at one end to hold the plug securely.
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Wrap the light strand around the board, keeping it snug but not overly tight.
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Secure the loose end in another slit or with painter’s tape.
Label each board with the strand’s intended use—like “roofline” or “tree”—so you can redeploy it efficiently next year.
Why this works:
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Prevents tangles
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Uses materials you already have
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Allows vertical stacking inside totes or bins
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Easy to label and organize
Light Reels and Winders: Tools for the Tidy
For those who want a more structured approach, light reels and winders offer a storage upgrade. These are designed specifically for winding long strands of lights and minimizing wear on wires and bulbs.
Benefits of light reels:
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Reduce strain on wires
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Prevent bulb breakage
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Stack easily in storage bins
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Faster setup and teardown
Some light reels are built into hard plastic storage containers, keeping everything protected and in one place. Reels with handles are especially handy for long exterior strands.
Plastic Bags for Bulb Protection
If you’re using larger decorative bulbs—like C9s or globe lights—you’ll want added protection from moisture, dust, and impact.
Pro tips:
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Wrap the light strand around cardboard or a reel first
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Slide it into a gallon-size or clear zip-top plastic bag
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Label the bag with contents and location used
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Seal it to block out dust and dampness
This technique is particularly effective for LED lights, vintage-style bulbs, or strands with unique shapes or finishes.
Label Everything for Faster Decorating
Clear labeling may be the biggest time-saver when it’s time to decorate again.
Helpful labeling tips:
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Use masking tape, mailing labels, or printed tags
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Indicate where each strand was used (e.g., “banister,” “tree,” “garage trim”)
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Add length, bulb type, or any important notes
When everything has a clear label, there’s no guessing game next year—and you’re far less likely to repurchase strands you already own but couldn’t find.
Tubs with Dividers: Structured, Stackable Storage
Skip the chaos of shoving lights into one bin. Instead, choose large plastic tubs with dividers or custom inserts that separate and protect individual strands.
How to set it up:
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Line the tub with DIY dividers (made from foam board or cardboard)
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Place one wrapped strand per section
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Add silica gel packs to keep moisture away
Choose clear bins for easy viewing, or color-code your containers (e.g., red = tree lights, green = outdoor sets). Snap-on lids help keep everything clean and dry.
Hanging Storage: Ideal for Long or Delicate Strands
If you’ve got extra closet or garage space, hanging your light strands is a smart way to preserve shape and function—especially for icicle or curtain-style lights.
How to hang lights in storage:
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Coil each strand gently and secure with twist ties or Velcro straps
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Use hangers, wall hooks, or a pegboard system to suspend them
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Label each loop or section for future reference
This keeps the strands straight, detangled, and easy to retrieve—no digging required.
Extra Tips for Post-Holiday Prep
Test Before You Store:
Plug in each strand before wrapping to check for dead bulbs or wiring issues. Discard broken sets or tag them for repair.
Create a Light Map:
Take photos or draw a quick diagram of where each light strand was used. Include strand lengths and any special mounting tricks. Store this map in your bin for next year.
Choose the Right Location:
Whenever possible, store your lights indoors or in climate-controlled spaces. Avoid damp basements or hot garages that can degrade plastic and wiring.
Keep the Sparkle Year After Year
Knowing how to store Christmas lights correctly turns cleanup from a chore into an investment in next year’s holiday joy. Whether you DIY with cardboard, go pro with reels, or hang everything in a closet, the key is consistency, protection, and clear labeling.
Ready to take your storage strategy even further? Be sure to read our full breakdown in Best Christmas Tree Storage Bags: Reviews and Buyer’s Guide for tips on how to pack away your entire holiday setup with care.
Invest in the Best Artificial Christmas Trees for Your Home
Finding the best artificial Christmas trees means balancing looks, ease of use, and durability. Whether you’re drawn to a realistic pine with lifelike needles or a show-stopping flocked tree, there’s a model that fits your space and style.
Ready to protect your investment for years to come? Be sure to read our guide to Best Christmas Tree Storage Bags: Reviews and Buyer’s Guide for tips on storing your tree properly after the season ends.
