How To Store a Christmas Tree

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A Christmas tree is an investment in your family’s memories for years to come. To maintain the beauty of your Balsam Hill™ tree and prevent damage during storage, it is important to store it correctly. Each section should be carefully packed and placed in a cool, dry location to help preserve its shape and finish.

For an easier pack-up and a smoother decorating experience next year, follow our step-by-step storage guide.

Woman organising Christmas tree components beside a red Balsam Hill storage bag, including a tree stand, gloves, and hardware, laid out neatly on a light-coloured floor.

As shown in the video, every Balsam Hill tree includes a complimentary storage bag made from rip-stop nylon with reinforced handles for easy lifting and carrying. If you are not using a wheeled storage bag, we recommend keeping and reusing these nylon bags to help maintain your tree’s condition over time.

Continue reading for more helpful tips on storing your Christmas tree once decorating is complete.

Note: Damage caused by unsuitable storage conditions, including excessive heat or humidity, is not covered under the tree warranty.

Woman adjusting lights on a decorated Christmas tree in a styled living room, with a red Balsam Hill storage bag placed on the floor nearby.

Storage Tips

Use the following best practices as you prepare to take down your Christmas tree:

Remove all décor and unplug the lights before disassembling the tree.
Allow enough time for this process. If you have a pre-lit tree, take extra care when compressing the branches to reduce the risk of damaging the bulbs.
Use the gloves that come with your Balsam Hill tree when compressing the foliage to protect both your hands and the branches.
Move the undecorated tree closer to your storage area before disassembly and compressing the sections. This helps reduce heavy lifting later.
Store your tree in a cool, dry place to prevent musty odours during storage. Adding a packet of baking soda can help absorb unwanted smells naturally.

Storing a Traditional Christmas Tree

For standard unlit or pre-lit Balsam Hill Christmas trees, follow the guide below for safe and proper storage.

Woman disassembling a Christmas tree beside a red Balsam Hill storage bag in a bright, minimalist living room.

Disassembling Your Tree

Detach the Lights - For non-Easy Plug™ trees, disconnect the light connections between each section. If your tree is not pre-lit, carefully remove the light strings and store them separately.
Compress the Branches - Use both hands to gently compress the foliage on each branch before detaching the section. Once removed, turn the section over and press the branches together to keep them compact.
Secure the Section - To make handling easier, tie a ribbon or cord around each section to hold the branches securely in place.

Woman zipping a red Balsam Hill storage bag filled with Christmas tree branches on a beige carpeted floor.

Storing Tree Sections

Prepare the Storage Bags: Unzip and fully open the storage bags that came with your tree so they are ready to use.
Store the Sections: Place the tree sections inside the bag as you would position shoes in a box, with the pole centred. For larger trees, store the odd-numbered sections in one bag and the even-numbered sections in the other.
Seal the Bag: Zip the bag closed to help protect the tree from dust and insects while in storage.

Storing a Flip Tree

Balsam Hill offers a simple and convenient way to pack and unpack a Christmas tree with Flip Tree™ technology.

Featuring a built-in rolling stand, the tree can be moved in and out of storage with ease, making the entire process quicker and more manageable.

Woman attaching the top section of a pre-lit Christmas tree in a decorated living room, featuring garlands and wreaths.

Detach Upper Section

Remove the upper section of the tree, turn it over, and gently compress the branches. Place the section into the provided storage bag and secure it neatly in place.

Woman assembling the bottom section of a hinged Christmas tree on a rolling stand, with festive garlands and red bows decorating the staircase in the background.

Flip the Bottom Section

Carefully flip the bottom section of the tree over so it rests securely and is ready for storage.

Woman zipping a red upright Christmas tree storage bag around a partially collapsed Christmas tree in a styled home, with garlands and red stockings displayed along the staircase.

Cover and Store

Gently compress the bottom section of the tree and cover it with the provided storage bag, making sure it is fully enclosed and secure.

Woman securing a fully zipped red upright Christmas tree storage bag around a collapsed Christmas tree on a rolling stand, with garlands and red stockings displayed along the staircase behind her.

Wheel Away

Before moving the tree, double-check that all storage bags are fully zipped and secure. Once confirmed, carefully wheel the tree to your chosen storage location.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the Best Way To Store Your Christmas Tree?

Using a durable, purpose-built storage bag helps protect your tree from dust and damage while it is stored away. Choose a bag with wheels to make moving the tree easier. Store your tree in a secure location away from heat and pests to help maintain its condition, and avoid stacking boxes or bags on top of it.

Do Christmas Tree Storage Bags Work?

Yes, Christmas tree storage bags provide better protection than plastic bags or cardboard boxes. They help shield your tree from heat, humidity, and pests, and are typically made from reinforced materials designed for easier lifting and movement.

How Do I Take Down a Pre-Lit Christmas Tree?

Start by unplugging the lights and removing all ornaments and decorations. Disassemble the tree following the manufacturer’s instructions. When compressing the branches on pre-lit trees, take extra care to avoid loosening or damaging the bulbs. Secure each section in a storage bag and place it in a cool, dry area away from direct heat.