How to Store Christmas Lights: Tangle-Free Tips for Next Year

Why Proper Storage Matters

Christmas lights may look delicate, but they’re a considered investment. Poor storage can lead to tangled wires, damaged bulbs, frayed cables and corrosion, especially if lights are packed away damp or crushed.

Storing lights correctly helps:

• Prevent knots and tangles
• Reduce wear on wires and connections
• Protect bulbs and LEDs from breakage
• Make decorating quicker and more enjoyable next year

Taking a few extra minutes when packing away your lights can save hours of untangling (and replacement costs) later.

Best Storage Methods (Reels, Boxes & Hangers)

There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to storing Christmas lights, but some methods work better than others depending on the type of lights you have.

Reels

Light reels are one of the most effective ways to prevent tangles. Simply wind the lights evenly around the reel, keeping tension gentle and consistent. Reels are ideal for longer strings, such as tree lights or outdoor festoon lighting.

Boxes

Original packaging is often designed specifically to protect lights, making it a great storage option if you still have it. If not, sturdy plastic storage boxes work well. Choose boxes with lids to keep out dust and moisture, and avoid overfilling.

Hangers

For icicle lights or curtain lights, clothes hangers can be surprisingly effective. Draping lights carefully over a hanger keeps strands separated and ready to hang straight back up next year.

DIY Organisers for Christmas Lights

If you don’t have reels or storage boxes to hand, there are plenty of DIY solutions that work just as well.

• Cardboard pieces: Cut notches into the edges and wrap lights around the centre.
• Toilet roll tubes: Perfect for smaller light strings; wind the lights around the tube and secure the plug inside.
• Plastic bottles: Feed the lights into the bottle and screw the lid on to keep them contained.

These low-cost options are especially useful if you have multiple sets of lights to store separately.

Preventing Tangles and Damage

The key to tangle-free storage is patience and preparation.

Before storing:

1. Lay the lights out flat and untwist any knots.
2. Gently wipe down the cable with a dry cloth to remove dust or debris.
3. Avoid pulling or stretching wires, especially around the plug and transformer.

When winding lights, keep them loose rather than tightly coiled. Tight bends can weaken internal wiring over time, increasing the risk of faults next season.

Labelling and Packing

Labelling your lights may seem unnecessary now, but it makes a huge difference when December rolls around again.

Use simple tags or masking tape to note:

• Where the lights are used (tree, mantlepiece, garden fence)
• Whether they’re indoor or outdoor lights
• Colour or style (warm white, multicolour, twinkle, static)

Pack similar items together and store lights separately from heavier decorations to prevent crushing. Clear storage boxes are particularly helpful, allowing you to see what’s inside without opening everything.

Maintenance Tips Before Storage

Before packing your lights away, it’s worth checking they’re still in good working order.

• Plug them in briefly to ensure all bulbs or LEDs are functioning.
• Replace any faulty bulbs where possible.
• Remove batteries from battery-operated lights to prevent corrosion.
• Make sure lights are completely dry, especially outdoor sets.

Addressing small issues now means you won’t be faced with disappointment or last-minute fixes next Christmas.

Storage for Outdoor vs Indoor Lights

Indoor and outdoor lights have slightly different storage needs.

Indoor Lights

Store indoor lights in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. A cupboard, wardrobe or under-stairs storage area works well.

Outdoor Lights

Outdoor lights are more exposed to moisture and temperature changes, so they need extra care. Ensure they’re fully dry before storage and keep them in waterproof containers if possible. Avoid sheds or garages that are prone to damp unless your storage boxes are well sealed.

Separating indoor and outdoor lights also helps avoid confusion when decorating next year.

Preparing for Next Season

Good storage isn’t just about packing things away, it’s about setting yourself up for a smoother festive season next year.

Consider creating a dedicated Christmas storage area where lights, decorations and accessories are kept together. Keep extension leads, timers and spare bulbs in the same place so everything is ready when you need it.

Making a quick note of which lights might need replacing can also help spread costs and avoid last-minute purchases.

Troubleshooting Common Storage Issues

Even with the best intentions, issues can still arise. Here’s how to handle some common problems:

• Lights still tangled: Lay them out fully and gently work through knots before rewinding using a reel or organiser.
• Corrosion on plugs: Clean lightly with a dry cloth and ensure lights are fully dry before re-storage.
• Bulbs not working next year: Check fuses and connections first; many issues are minor and easily fixed.

If a set has reached the end of its life, consider recycling responsibly and upgrading to newer, energy-efficient LED options.

A Little Effort Now, A Lot Less Stress Later

Storing your Christmas lights properly doesn’t take long, but it makes a world of difference when the festive season comes back around. With the right storage methods, a bit of organisation and some simple maintenance, you can keep your lights shining bright for years to come.

We believe Christmas decorating should be joyful from start to finish, and that includes packing away. A tangle-free approach now means more time to enjoy the magic next year!