• After the holidays, it's time to find ways to store your ornaments.christmas tree image by Maria Brzostowska from Fotolia.com
  
  Ornaments add color and decoration to your home during the holidays. Once the holidays are over, you need to protect and store those ornaments in a safe way. Glass ornaments are susceptible to breaking, especially older ones that are more fragile and delicate. Even plastic ornaments may break, particularly those with small parts or sharp edges. Ornament storage solutions keep your ornaments safe and finding them quickly for the next season.
  
  

Preparing for Packing

• Before placing any of your items in storage, run through your current ornaments and take stock of what you own. Now is the time to throw away any broken or damaged ornaments. Donate any ornaments that you no longer use and those that don’t fit with the style of your Christmas decorations. Wrap all fragile ornaments with tissue paper and write a short description of the ornament on the outside of the paper. This helps you see exactly what you have, without removing the tissue paper.
  
  

Plastic Storage Boxes

• Plastic storage boxes are a good option if you plan on storing several boxes of ornaments. One type has a hinged lid that stays attached to the box and lifts easily. Another type has a lid that lifts completely off the plastic box. These have cardboard inserts, with specially made slots for storing your ornaments. Set the ornaments inside each slot.
  
  

Cardboard Storage Boxes

• Cardboard storage boxes are a cheaper alternative for ornament storage than plastic boxes. Inside the box, you’ll find multiple cardboard inserts, with storage spaces for the ornaments. Each insert sets on top of the other, and they fit together easily. You’ll also find boxes with slots on the outside, for writing down a list of the ornaments inside.
  
  

Specialty Packages

• Look for specially made packages for specific types of ornaments and other holiday decorations. A wreath hanger, for example, attaches to the back of your wreath and comes with a plastic bag that covers it. Hang your wreaths on the back of a closet door or a wall hook and you won’t have to worry about them getting damaged or broken during the off-season. Several companies also make special storage items for Christmas tree lights that look like cardboard spools. Wrap the lights around the spools and keep your lights safe.