How to Clean and Store Christmas Decorations
By Kip&Co: Fun, colourful and stylish bedding, homewares ... | Published: 2026-10-20
Category: Tips & Care
Learn the best way to clean and store your Christmas decorations so they stay beautiful for years. Simple steps for ornaments, lights, and handmade pieces.
Quick Answer
To keep your Christmas decorations looking their best, clean them gently with a soft, dry cloth and store them in acid-free containers with plenty of padding, away from heat and moisture.
Why Cleaning Before Storing Matters
Dust and grime that sit on decorations over months can dull finishes and attract pests. Cleaning before storage prevents stains from setting and keeps your pieces ready to hang next year.
Handmade and beaded items need extra care. Avoid water and harsh chemicals, which can damage embroidery, sequins, and metallic threads.
Storing Different Types of Decorations
Fragile baubles and ornaments should be wrapped individually in tissue paper or soft cloth. Lights should be coiled loosely to prevent wire damage. Garlands and wreaths can be stored in large, breathable bags to keep their shape.
For handmade decorations with delicate details, like the hand-embroidered Rainbow Decoration or the sequinned Christmas Koala, avoid crushing them under heavier items.
Step-by-Step Cleaning and Storage
- Dust Each Decoration: Use a soft, dry microfiber cloth to gently wipe away dust. For intricate areas, use a soft-bristled brush like a clean makeup brush. Check for loose beads or threads before cleaning to avoid further damage.
- Spot Clean Stubborn Marks: For non-porous surfaces, use a slightly damp cloth with mild soap, then dry immediately. Avoid soaking handmade or fabric items. Test on a small, hidden area first to ensure the color doesn't run.
- Dry Completely: Let everything air dry fully before packing. Any moisture can lead to mold or mildew during storage. Wait at least 24 hours to be sure.
- Wrap Fragile Items Individually: Wrap each ornament in acid-free tissue paper or soft cloth. For beaded or embroidered pieces, add an extra layer of padding. Avoid newspaper; ink can transfer onto light-colored decorations.
- Choose the Right Container: Use sturdy, lidded containers that are acid-free and breathable. Divide compartments with cardboard or use egg cartons for small baubles. Label boxes clearly to make next year's setup faster.
- Store in a Cool, Dry Place: Keep containers in a closet or under a bed, away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and damp areas like basements or attics. Check periodically for pests or moisture, especially if storing long-term.
Caring for Handmade Decorations
- Lobster Decoration: The Lobster Decoration is a hand beaded orange lobster with metallic embroidered details. Beaded and metallic elements can snag or tarnish, so store it in a padded box away from moisture and sharp objects.
Lobster Decoration - Rainbow Decoration: The Rainbow Decoration is a hand embroidered rainbow arch with metallic rainbow stitching. Metallic threads are delicate, so avoid rubbing or bending the arch when cleaning and storing.
Rainbow Decoration - Christmas Koala Decoration: The Christmas Koala Decoration is hand embroidered and sequinned, with sequins that catch the light. Sequins can be pulled off easily, so handle gently and store in a separate compartment to avoid friction.
