Best Way To Store Christmas Lights

Putting up Christmas lights is one thing I look forward to the whole year. But storing them the right way is a different story altogether.

More often than not, people stow away their string lights haphazardly. Unsurprisingly, the next time they use the lights, some bulbs just go cold. After all that festive frenzy in December, you'll most likely take off the decorations in a rush, without putting in much thought.

And I get it: you have to go back to your routine, so you simply shove everything inside gift boxes and forget about it till next year. While there's nothing wrong with that, it can affect the longevity of your lights, among other things. Therefore, I'd suggest storing them in proper containers meant for this purpose.

Hi! I'm Stacy Smith, your one true friend in need. And today I'll be telling you the best way to store Christmas lights.

So, let's begin.

Christmas Lights Storage Options Reviews

1. ZOBER Christmas Light Storage Box

The ZOBER Christmas Light Storage Box is a must-have for homeowners looking for convenience and hassle-free safekeeping. So, if you want to keep your lights from breaking or getting damaged, I suggest adding this to your shopping-cart.

Product Highlights

This durable storage box is the perfect way to keep your Christmas lights organized and untangled. To begin with, I like that it's made of premium-quality, 600D Oxford fabric, which allows users to bundle the lights without worrying about damage.

Long story short, you can keep your string of bulbs safely in this water and mildew-resistant storage container. Other than that, the unit features 4 plastic strand holders, where you can wrap your light strings to keep them neatly stacked. Each of these racks can hold strings with up to 200 bulbs.

So, if you buy one such box, you can conveniently store several strings with a total of up to 800 bulbs. Furthermore, it includes a pair of rivet-reinforced handles on the sides, enabling effortless transport and handling. Lastly, it comes with a clear card slot on one side, which lets you label the box for easy identification.

What I like about it

The simplicity and efficiency of this product is what stands out for me. As a retired person, I find Christmas packing and unpacking to be an arduous affair. Nevertheless, when you have a storage box like this one, things get much more manageable.

For instance, I like that it has multiple racks, as it lets me color-code the lights. This way, I get to keep my white, blue, red, and multicolor lights separate.

What not to like about it

There's very little to not like about this user-friendly light box; however, I wish they added a zipper on the lid. While it keeps the contents covered and dust-free, the gap in-between the lid and the box could allow small insects to creep in.

2. Holdn' Storage Premium Christmas Light Storage Bag

Next up, the Holdn' Storage Light Storage Bag is another excellent choice for your post-party pack-up. It may not be the most inexpensive option on this list, but it sure has a lot to offer for a few extra dollars. So, if you're looking for something reliable and long-lasting, get this right away.

Product Highlights

First of all, I'm very impressed with this well-structured 600D Oxford fabric bag, which combines safety and practicality in one neat package. Therefore, with this, you can rest assured that your lights will not come in contact with moisture, dust, or other damage-inducing elements.

Besides the design, I like the 3 spinning reels that come with the bag, enabling proper light storage. Each of these spool reels can hold up to 125 ft of mini lights and 75 ft of type C7 bulbs. Alternatively, you can use them to store 150 ft of wire or extension cords.

However, that's not all; the bag includes a versa-clamp that can be clasped to a ladder or rain gutter for hassle-free light installation. Plus, I like the U-shaped zipper, which creates a large opening for easy loading and unloading of the spools. All in all, it's a super handy bag that can take care of your lights until next year.

What's There To Like About It?

For me, the bright red color of this bag screams Christmas. You don't need a label to recollect where you have kept your festoon lights, but the bag comes with one anyway, so you might as well use it.

That said, personally, the wind-around form of storage really works, as I feel that's the ideal way to keep your lights intact. It keeps things neat and untangled, which is pretty much all I want.

What's There Not To Like About It?

The spool reels are a bit flimsy, and as such, you should handle them with care. I have a feeling that it won't survive a heavy drop or a knock. So, just make sure to be careful while unwinding the lights. That aside, it's a very handy item with all the makings of a durable storage container.

3. HOMZ Light Organizer Holiday Plastic Storage Container

If you're unsure about using storage bags for your lights, the Homz Plastic Container set is the way to go. Most people pack and keep light garlands somewhere in the garage, loft, or crawl space until it's December. Therefore, it's essential to get something that will keep your lights in working condition around the year.

Product Highlights

First off, these bin-like containers are designed to keep your string lights separate and uncluttered. It may not have a lot going on in terms of looks, but these bright red boxes are sure to stand out among a dozen other things.

Feature-wise, I like that each of these containers come with 4 cord wraps. Therefore, you get 8 cord wraps in total, which, when put together, can store several feet of lights. So, it's unlikely that you'll fall short on space, given the total capacity of each box.

The wraps also feature a handle on top, allowing users to effortlessly roll up their light strings. Other than that, I like the use of clear lids on the top, which lets you see the contents of the box without opening them. And since the boxes come with a latch, your lights are all the more safe from dust and water damage.

What's There To Like About It?

What appeals to me the most is the practicality of these plastic boxes. Since you're getting two of them, you may end up with a spare one. My point is that the cord wraps are removable, meaning you can take those out and use the box for storing something else.

Also, there's enough space even if you have two boxes' worth of light to store. So, you can throw in small decor items as well, which otherwise won't damage the bulbs.

What's There Not To Like About It?

The fact that it comes in a pair. Don't get me wrong, I appreciate all that additional space, but that's not the case for all users. For that matter, not everyone needs two containers to store their lights, and that's fair.

However, this product comes in a set only, and you don't have the option of buying just one. Some would have preferred it the other way, and that's the only downside to it.

4. ZOBER Premium Christmas Light Storage Bag

The ZOBER Premium Christmas Light Storage Bag is one highly functional product that does the job without a hitch. So, if you don't want to spend money on new lights during the peak Christmas shopping season, invest in this utility bag and store them the right way. Yes, it's that easy to save unnecessary costs.

Product Highlights

This cylindrical shaped bag is everything you need to safely store your Christmas lights. Before I go into details, let's start with its construction. Made of 600D Oxford polyester material, this bright red bag is every bit waterproof and tear-resistant. Also, the high-quality fabric keeps your bulbs safe from pests, dust, and dirt.

Therefore, if you're looking for a storage solution for the long haul, this is where your search ends. Now, as for features, I'm absolutely stoked about the 3 heavy-duty metal reels included in the package. They are virtually unbreakable and make light storage and organization a child's play.

Capacity-wise, this bag does a splendid job and leaves no room for complaints. Each reel can hold at least 300 mini bulbs, 200 of type C, and 80 of type D varieties. Honestly, that's a serious advantage and a steal deal in my books.

What's There To Like About It?

Almost everything, and that's big coming from someone as picky as me. But, interestingly, what I liked the most is the circular shape of the bag. The design just stands out and, at the same time, does not hog the floor, unlike some plastic containers and bags.

Also, 3 metal reels at this price point is truly a life-saver. After all, nobody wants to spend several dollars on a light storage container.

What's There Not To Like About It?

If you're using this bag to store type D bulbs only, you may face some difficulty in loading the lights. Basically, it leads to a tight fit with the bag bulging from the sides and ends, and you may struggle to close the bag if you have wound 80 bulbs on each reel.

Things would have been much more convenient if the bag was a few inches longer and wider. So, this bit aside, everything works fine, more or less.

5. Woods E103 Wheel

The Woods E103 Wheel is a pocket-friendly light storage unit that can be used for multiple wired items. It's easy to use and exceedingly convenient for busy homeowners putting up last-minute Christmas decorations.

Product Highlights

First things first, this multi-purpose wheel can store string lights, extension cords, ropes, or hoses. Basically, anything that you want to keep untangled and easily accessible.

While it has a bare-bones appearance, it does have a lot in store for users looking for durability and convenience. For instance, the lightweight design combined with a stable base enables indoor and outdoor use.

Other than that, the wheel features a rod in the center and a side-mounted handle, ensuring easy operability with a better grip. Personally, I like that it comes with a pair of cord locks that keep your lights in place.

Also, it's quite handy; you can just carry it around your home comfortably without the cables weighing you down. Overall it's a practical choice for anyone who wants to spend the least on light storage.

What's There To Like About It?

Price-wise, I'm really happy with this wheel structure, as it's easily one of the most versatile options out there. However, for me, the biggest USP of this item is the solid base. It allows you to securely position the wheel on the floor or a flat surface while you pull out the wire.

As someone who spends a lot of time working with tools and equipment, this feature indeed makes things easier.

What's There Not To Like About It?

Frankly, if you're going to use this for your lights, you'll need something to keep the wheel covered. You cannot just wind up your light garland and leave it exposed to dirt, dust, and moisture.

I would have liked it better if the package included a fitted cover that you could slip in. So, if you're buying this, make sure to use a protective cloth to keep the bulbs safe.

Buyers Guide

You may know all about the best storage containers for your Christmas lights, but that information alone may not be enough. Therefore, I have prepared an elaborate buyers' guide to help you choose the right option from my top 5 selections.

So, take a look and pick wisely.

1. Bag Vs. Plastic Container?

Now, there's no straightforward answer to settle this debate, as a lot depends on your convenience and what you're looking for in a storage option. While bags are the obvious choice, plastic containers are not far behind.

That said, good quality plastic boxes are far more durable and resistant compared to polyester bags. While the latter can be waterproof and tear-resistant, plastic can offer the same qualities and more.

At the same time, these boxes have a considerably higher price than bags, so you may want to figure out your budget before deciding.

2. Capacity

This is an important factor that you must weigh-in before proceeding with any of these options. Some people use lights not just to decorate the Christmas tree but also different parts of the house, both indoors and outdoors.

To cut it short, people feel festive this one time of the year and like to keep their houses bright and colorful. There's no harm in that, but it also means that you have to pack and store a heck lot of lights.

In that case, your light bag or box should provide enough space to hold different types of lights without tangling them. Depending on the model design, check the information on cord wraps or spool reels.

Also, make it a point to check the product's interior dimensions, as you don't want your lights packed like sardines. That said, if you want more space between individual light bundles, I'd suggest opting for cord wraps.

This is mainly because the cord wrap itself is quite slender, unlike reels, and does not take up a lot of room inside the bag or box.

3. Mode Of Storage

Naturally, the next thing that comes to your mind is how you want to stack your lights. While cords wraps are better than reels in terms of space management, the latter also has some significant advantages.

If you ask me, I have more of a traditional take in this case, but I'll tell you why it's not so bad either. When you use reels to store your lights, you wrap the entire string around the spindle, and I feel that's a safer method than cord wraps.

Also, when you have a spinning reel, the unwinding process is much smoother and less time-consuming. Furthermore, when you're dealing with bigger bulbs, I'd definitely recommend using reels.

4. Covering Type

The type of covering your bag or box has is essential as you don't want your lights to be exposed to the elements. As a rule of thumb, zippered bags are ideal for storing your festoon lights.

Likewise, if it's a box, go for the ones with a latch lock that snaps shut and seals your lights inside a safe enclosure. Anything with an unattached lid may not offer the same level of protection, and as such, you're more likely to misplace it.

Therefore, make sure to get a storage item that keeps your lights safe from moisture, dust, and pests.

5. Easy To Handle

Ultimately whatever you buy should be easy to carry and move around. If your bag or box gets too bulky and does not have a strap or handles, that's more of a problem than a storage solution. You don't want to waste your money on such items.

Best Storage for Christmas Lights FAQs

Our Final Recommendation