Decorating for the holidays is one of the best parts of celebrating, we get to bring out all the beautifully colored and special decor we only see once a year. But when the holidays are over and it’s time to take down all of your beautiful decorations, you want to make sure that your ornaments and other breakable decorations make it back into storage in one piece. To help you with this task, here are seven expert tips for packing ornaments and other breakable holiday decorations:
1. Choose the Right Box
You need a box that is sturdy enough to protect your fragile items from breaking during transit as well as durable enough to be stored for long periods of time. Cardboard boxes with thick walls and a snug lid are ideal. If you’re shipping the box, make sure it is rated for that purpose.
2. Add Foam or Bubble Wrap
When packing your delicate items, it’s important to use foam and bubble wrap for extra protection. Be sure to place foam between each item and even under the bottom of the box. Creating layers of insulation and separation will increase the protection and safety of even the most delicate items.
3. Label Box as Fragile
You should clearly label the box with “FRAGILE” so that it is handled carefully during transit. This will alert others to be extra cautious when handling your decorations. Make sure that the label is written in large lettering and permanent marker to prevent fading over time. This way even after a year in storage, when you go for those decorations again, you will know which boxes need to be handled with care.
4. Tape Edges and Seams
You want to make sure nothing slips out of the box. Tape over the edges and seams with packing tape so that it is securely sealed. Securely sealing the boxes will not only prevent anything from getting out, but also keep bugs and any other pests out of the boxes as well.
5. Use Old Clothes or Towels
Wrap any delicate items in old clothes or towels to provide extra cushioning and protection against breakage. This will help keep your decorations safe during transport. This is a great tip for dual purpose packing, if there are softer items that need to be stored as well, using one to protect the other can save on space and still make sure everything is put away well.
6. Avoid Overstuffing
You don’t want to overstuff the box with fragile items. Make sure that you leave some breathing room in between each item so that they don’t smash against each other. The insulation layers you add will help with this but it is best practice to leave an inch or so of space at the top of the box just to be sure your items don’t get smashed when boxes are stacked.
7. Ship and Store Carefully
Once your box is packed, it is important to ship or store it carefully. If you are shipping the box, make sure that it is being handled by a reliable delivery service. If you are storing the box, place it in an area where it won’t be exposed to extreme temperatures or moisture. If they are going to a storage unit, finding one with climate control will help keep your belongings safer!
Following these expert tips for packing ornaments and other breakable holiday decorations will ensure that your beloved items are safe during transit and in storage. With these tips, you can rest assured that your decorations will remain intact and ready to be used for many more holidays to come!