Is it better to store a Christmas tree in a bag or box?

17, Jun. 2024

 

How to store a Christmas tree - The Providence Journal

Cheryl Fenton

If you want to learn more, please visit our website american sales christmas tree storage bag.

Reviewed

' Recommendations are independently chosen by Reviewed's editors. Purchases made through the links below may earn us and our publishing partners a commission.

Although an artificial Christmas tree may cost a bit more than a real tree off the bat, it boasts a lifespan of around 10 years (a bit less if it's fully lighted). So, consumers can consider it an investment.

According to an annual survey conducted by the American Christmas Tree Association, artificial Christmas trees are also quite the crowd pleasers when it comes to the ongoing real-vs-fake tree battle. Of the nearly 96 million U.S. households displaying a Christmas tree in , 81% of those were artificial.

Not to mention that with the cost of real trees rising, thanks to extreme weather in the Pacific Northwest and Midwest, supply chain congestion, and shipping container shortages, this number is poised to rise in coming years.

Get on the nice list.Sign up for our newsletter to get all the best gift guides, deals and holiday planning advice. 

So, once you've committed to a 10-year financial investment and found the artificial Christmas tree of your dreams, you'll want to know how to store a Christmas tree to keep this hero of holiday décor in top form for the duration of its lifespan.

When it comes time to take it down and store it until next season, make the wrong move and your investment can get bent, shed plastic needles, or even turn a different color. Things like pests and mold are also potential gifts that keep on giving'not in a good way.

Proper storage can keep your faux tree looking good for the next year. So, we asked a few experts for their tips on how to store a Christmas tree during its seasonal hibernation.

Clean your artificial Christmas tree before storing it

How you prep your tree for its long aprés-winter nap is just as important as how you store a Christmas tree, according to Lewis Puleo of Puleo International, America's oldest family-owned artificial Christmas tree company.

'To ensure your tree will be ready for many seasons ahead, it is best to clean your tree at the end of each holiday season after it is taken down and all decorations are removed,' he suggests.

To do so, mix warm water and a little bit of dishwashing soap in a spray bottle to treat stained areas of the tree and wipe down with a soft cloth.

Puleo says, 'Allow the tree to dry thoroughly before storing. Even though the tree is artificial, any moisture accumulated during storage can cause some damage.'

Use a durable storage bag, not a cardboard box

Although your artificial tree came in a cardboard box, that's not how you want to store a Christmas tree. From moisture to mice, cardboard is asking for trouble as your vulnerable (and pricy) seasonal showstopper awaits 10 months until its next appearance.

White artificial trees are particularly vulnerable, and they will quickly turn yellow or brown if not properly stored. Green trees can also change color if not protected from the elements. Not to mention mold and dust can accumulate.

Brian Chee of online artificial Christmas tree retailer Treetopia says, 'Some of the key things to think about when storing an artificial Christmas tree include the storage vessel you use. We recommend a storage bag made from high-quality and long-wearing materials that offer extra security.'

Puleo agrees. 'Use a high quality storage bag with thick material like a durable polyester, to protect from any damage and that can be easily wiped clean.'

If your tree doesn't come with its own storage bag, be sure that you have enough bags to accommodate the pieces of your tree once you break them down.

Balsam Hill's CEO Mac Harman says, 'You don't want to store too much tree in each bag, as you can risk mis-shaping the tree, breaking branches or lights.'

In addition to several traditional faux trees, Balsam Hill sells a 'Flip' tree that's stored in a bag until you 'flip' the tree upright.

Buy at Nordstrom

Lastly, consider where you're storing your tree when choosing a sturdy bag.

'Roller bags are best for storage on the same floor or in a garage,' says Harman. 'The duffel style is easier if you will be carrying your tree to an attic [or basement] for storage.'

This duffle bag made for tree storage from Amazon is a great option that will protect your tree from the basement floor. If you have more vertical space to utilize, swing for an upright storage bag like this one from West Elm.

Buy at Amazon Buy at West Elm

Social distance your artificial tree while storing it

When planning how to store a Christmas tree, also consider where.

Chee emphasizes that 'the location where you store your tree is also very important. Ensure the tree is placed in a location where other boxes or items will not fall on top of or put pressure up against the tree bag. [This] is critical to having it maintain both its color and shape all year long.'

'The temperature of the storage location is also an essential consideration, and we suggest storing in an area that is climate controlled,' continues Chee. 'Areas like the attic, which can get extremely hot in the summer, are not an ideal place to store a tree as the heat can damage the branches and discolor the tree over time.'

Steer clear of areas next to sunlight, moisture, and/or drafts. Consider storing your tree horizontally in mounted ceiling shelves, so that unwanted critters don't make homes in or snacks of your prized pine.

Harman says, 'Storage bags are great for keeping your tree from getting dusty during the off season, but make sure that you don't stack other items on top of it.'

Keep the tree in an area that is naturally not humid, says Puleo, because 'musty is not on the holiday scent list we look forward to.'

The product experts at Reviewed have all your shopping needs covered. Follow Reviewed on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, TikTok, or Flipboard for the latest deals, product reviews, and more.

Prices were accurate at the time this article was published but may change over time.

The Best Christmas Tree Storage of

With tips and insights from Blakey and two other experts in mind, we researched and tested storage solutions for artificial trees with useful features, like grab handles and wheels. Each bag was evaluated based on material, size, and overall functionality .

"Look for a strong, all-weather material that protects the tree from mold and moisture," says professional organizer Holly Blakey of Breathing Room. "You also want to make sure the zippers are heavy-duty and there are straps for reinforcement."

When it comes to preserving the longevity and quality of artificial Christmas trees , storage is crucial. With the right storage bag or structured container , your tree can last for years. Christmas tree bags not only store your tree in a compact and organized manner after taking it apart but they also preserve the branches, needles, and lights from dust and other elements that can cause harm to it'but not all are created equal.

Best Overall

Elf Stor Premium Rolling Tree Storage Duffel

PHOTO:

Amazon

What We Like

  • Waterproof material with reliable zippers

  • Keeps moisture and pests out

  • Easy to maneuver and lift

What We Don't Like

  • Not rigid; doesn't hold rectangular shape

The Elf Stor Premium Rolling Tree Storage Duffel is crafted from thick 600-denier nylon canvas and coated with PVC (polyvinyl chloride), a high-strength thermoplastic. This makes it exceptionally durable, tear-resistant, and waterproof. With a tough exterior and reliable zippers, it's meant to keep moisture out to prevent mildew growth while ensuring pests don't nibble their way in.

This storage bag can fit disassembled trees up to 9 feet tall. You can also use it to stash artificial garlands, wreaths, holiday decor, and other seasonal items. Thanks to the built-in wheels, sturdy side handles, extra-long carrying straps, and relatively lightweight design, it's easy to maneuver around your home and lift onto a storage rack. One thing to note is that the online product images make it seem like the duffel has stiff sides and holds a rectangular shape. Though it is rectangular, it's not rigid.

Tree storage solutions can be quite cheap, surprisingly expensive, or somewhere in between. If you don't want to spend more on a bag than you did on the tree itself but also don't want a flimsy design without wheels, Elf Stor is a happy medium with a reasonable price tag.

Dimensions: 59 x 24.5 x 22 inches | Material: PVC-coated 600-denier nylon canvas | Handles: 2

Best Budget

Zober Christmas Tree Storage Bag

PHOTO:

Amazon

What We Like

  • Durable, waterproof exterior

  • Keeps moisture, dust, and rodents out

  • Relatively compact; easy to store

What We Don't Like

  • No wheels

  • Hard to move with large, robust trees

On a budget? The Zober Christmas Tree Storage Bag won't run you more than $20, and it gets the job done. We tested this product and were generally happy with the design. It's made of polyester and coated with polyethylene (PE) to make it extra durable and waterproof while keeping dust and rodents out. The material seems like it won't tear or rip easily, and the slick, waterproof finish makes it a breeze to wipe clean.

This tree storage bag has reinforced grab handles that come in handy when transporting it in and out of your living room. That said, we tested it with a relatively lightweight tree'a more robust faux tree might make it more challenging to maneuver, especially since it doesn't have wheels. Still, we found it easy to fit a disassembled 7.5-foot tree in the duffel. And it's relatively compact, so storing it in a closet or on a shelf is no problem.

The Zober Tree Storage Bag is somewhat crinkly with a cheap appearance. But it's meant for storage, not decoration, so this may not matter to many buyers. In the end, it's a very affordable product that serves its purpose.

Dimensions: 48 x 20 x 15 inches, 65 x 30 x 15 inches | Material: PE-coated polyester | Handles: 2

Best Waterproof

HomeItUsa Christmas Tree Storage Tote

PHOTO:

Lowe's

What We Like

  • Protects from mold, mildew, and moisture damage

  • Double zippers and side pocket

  • Reinforced handles and carrying straps

What We Don't Like

  • No wheels

  • Only fits trees up to 8 feet

If you store your Christmas decorations in a shed, a basement that hasn't been water-sealed, or another moisture-prone zone, you might want to get a waterproof bag. We suggest the HomeItUsa Christmas Tree Storage Tote. Made of PVC-coated nylon, it's not only waterproof but also super durable and resistant to tearing. You can count on it to protect your tree from mold, mildew, dust, and nibbling pests.

We like that this duffel has double zippers, allowing you to open it from either end. There's also a side zipper pocket for stashing something flat, like assembly instructions for your tree. Although it doesn't have wheels, the reinforced side handles and carrying straps make it easy enough to maneuver. The bag can only accommodate artificial trees up to 8 feet tall. While extra-high ceilings are becoming more common, the standard ceiling height is 8 feet, so it should work for most households.

Dimensions: 50 x 20 x 15 inches | Material: PVC-coated polyester | Handles: 2

Want more information on custom camper roof tent manufacturer? Feel free to contact us.

Best Extra-Large

TreeKeeper GreensKeeper 15 Foot Christmas Tree Bag

PHOTO:

Amazon

What We Like

  • Fits extra-tall trees or multiple trees

  • Steel frame holds rectangular shape

  • Oversized wheels and reinforced handles

What We Don't Like

  • Heavy and bulky

  • Assembly required

We tested the GreensKeeper Christmas Tree Bag and were impressed by the overall design and functionality. This storage solution has a sturdy steel frame and a polyester exterior. Unlike other tree bags we found, it actually maintains its rectangular shape and stands up without support.

Though it calls for at-home assembly, it only took us about 10 minutes to set up. Simply add the stabilizing slide bars to build the frame and lock them into place. The bag is made entirely of durable, wipe-clean polyester fabric, so it's easy to clean before and after each season.

This box-bag hybrid can hold disassembled trees up to 15 feet tall, multiple smaller trees, or other holiday decorations you don't want to get crushed, like garlands and wreaths that can be stored in a separate 'shelf' that sits above the tree storage held up by a net. We used it to stash two 7.5-foot artificial trees and both easily fit inside. If you do store holiday decor besides trees, be careful storing the bag in any other position'you don't want the ornaments to get crushed if the bag is flipped for whatever reason.

Due to the steel frame, the GreensKeeper Tree Bag weighs 30 pounds when empty. But the oversized wheels and reinforced handles help you get it from point A to point B. Plus, it's got 5 handles to help you move it.

At the risk of stating the obvious, it's pretty bulky. However, if you have space for it and recruit an extra pair of hands when lifting it onto a storage rack or into your attic, the weight and size shouldn't be a major issue.

Dimensions: 60 x 31 x 25 inches | Material: Polyester, steel | Handles: 12

Best Upright

Balsam Hill Rolling Christmas Tree Storage Bag

PHOTO:

Balsam Hill

What We Like

  • No need to disassemble tree

  • Sturdy stand with smooth-rolling wheels

  • Reinforced webbing for pulling sides up

What We Don't Like

  • Not for compact storage

  • Some assembly required

If you prefer upright storage or don't want to reassemble and disassemble your tree each year, consider the Rolling Christmas Tree Storage Bag from Balsam Hill. After removing the ornaments and string lights (if yours isn't pre-lit), detach the top section, place the tree on the metal stand, pull the sides up over the boughs using the reinforced webbing, then roll it away. Since this is a bit different than other storage options, be sure to read through the instructions before getting started to avoid confusion.

There are three sizes available. The Slim is for skinnier trees up to 7.5 feet tall, the standard fits trees up to 9 feet, and the Extra-Large can accommodate 9 feet tall and nearly 6 feet wide. One drawback to storing an assembled tree is that it won't be as compact as breaking it down. The other thing to note is that while you won't have to take your tree apart, the bag calls for partial at-home assembly.

Dimensions: 89 x 30 inches, 95 x 33 inches, 108 x 40 inches | Material: Polyester, metal | Handles: 4

Best Features

Hammacher Schlemmer Expandable Rolling Tree Storage Bag

PHOTO:

Hammacher Schlemmer

What We Like

  • Prevents mildew, dust, and deterioration

  • Extra-long zipper, pole pocket, and adjustable length

  • Lenient lifetime guarantee

What We Don't Like

  • Base drags when wheeling heavy trees

Hammacher Schlemmer makes a great tree storage solution as well. The tried-and-true retailer's Expandable Rolling Tree Storage Bag is designed to protect your faux Christmas tree from damage and deterioration. Constructed from PVC-coated 600-denier polyester, the water-repellent exterior keeps moisture out to prevent mildew while ensuring the branches and needles don't accumulate dust and dirt during the off-season.

As the name suggests, this tree storage bag is expandable. Extending from 48 inches to 60 inches in length with a top-top-bottom zipper for an extra-wide opening, it can fit disassembled trees up as tall as 9 feet. After removing the boughs and base, place the poles in the designated internal zipper pocket, then add the other pieces. At just six and a half pounds when empty with three wheels, this storage duffel is easy to maneuver around your home, lift onto a rack, and retrieve from your designated storage space. Heavier artificial trees can make the base drag on the ground when rolling it. This could lead to tears or punctures, but Hammacher Schlemmer prides itself in offering a very generous and lenient lifetime guarantee.

Dimensions: 48 x 21 x 21 inches | Material: PVC-coated 600-denier polyester | Handles: 2

Best with Wheels

Zober Christmas Tree Rolling Storage Bag

PHOTO:

Amazon

What We Like

  • Sturdy rubber wheels

  • Two interior straps

  • Two exterior zippers

  • Card slot for labeling

  • Two sizes and four colors available

What We Don't Like

  • Not for storing vertically

  • Not suitable for extra tall or wide trees

Finding a Christmas tree bag with wheels makes the assembly and disassembly process much easier, especially if you're storing your tree in a far away garage, basement, or storage unit. This option from Zober comes in two sizes'7.5 and 9 feet'so it's great for a wide variety of trees, but probably wouldn't be great for extra-large ones. For extra-wide trees, opt for the larger size just to be safe. However, the two interior adjustable straps help condense wide trees for a great fit.

The bag has a zipper closure to prevent moisture or dirt from seeping through between seasons. What's more, it's made from tear-resistant and waterproof polyester for optimal peace of mind. The double zipper design opens the bag wide so placing your tree inside isn't a struggle. There's also a card slot to label your bag, so you're never guessing what's inside when December comes around. Just note that this bag is not conducive for storing vertically, so clear some space in your extra room to keep your tree horizontal.

Dimensions: 48 x 15 x 20, 59 x 15 x 21 inches | Material: Oxford polyester | Handles: 2

Best Slim

Frontgate Slim Storage Bag

PHOTO:

Frontgate

What We Like

  • High-quality design with iron frame

  • Rolls easily and stands without support

  • Part of a matching storage line

What We Don't Like

  • Heavy

  • Assembly required

Frontgate is a brand you can count on for high-quality home goods and storage solutions. If you want a bag that not only preserves your disassembled slim tree but also looks nice in your garage, basement, or other storage area, consider investing in this vertical carrier. It boasts a protective iron frame and a 600-denier polyester exterior with sturdy zippers and side handles that can withstand up to 150 pounds of force, so you can feel sure your tree is protected. Designed for trees up to 50 inches in diameter, the slim profile is ideal for securing skinnier trees that may roll around or shift in larger storage bags.

With tri-wheels on each back corner and two smaller front wheels, it rolls easily (even up and down stairs) and sits upright without support. Due to the iron frame, this product has to be assembled at home, but it should be a pretty quick process. Also, it only weighs eight pounds when empty, so lifting it onto a storage rack or shelf with a tree inside should be an easy task. There's also a convenient side compartment for tree toppers or other decorations. Type-A folks who want their storage to look cohesive might consider getting other aesthetically pleasing pieces from the line, like the deluxe ornament chest or the crush-preventing hanging wreath bag.

Dimensions: 23 x 76 inches | Material: 600-denier polyester, iron | Handles: 2

The company is the world’s best l shaped outdoor cover supplier. We are your one-stop shop for all needs. Our staff are highly-specialized and will help you find the product you need.