Tidy Tips: Storage Ideas for String Lights

We’re sharing our favorite way to store holiday string lights so you’re not spending hours untangling a ball of lights only to find out that they don’t work!

 

1. Test the lights

Untangle the lights and head straight to the outlet to make sure all your lights work. If you have a dead bulb(s), try replacing them before tossing and buying new.

 

2. Wrap the lights

We highly recommend coiling or wrapping the lights to avoid the dreaded tangled mess each year.

See below for a DIY option.

 

3. Contain

Store the lights in plastic or fabric containers. Look for bins specific for lights with wrap organizers already included like this one from Target.

 

4. Label

Not only label the container but label each string of lights so you know exactly how/where they were used. This makes decorating the following year much easier. We used velcro cord labels from The Container Store - see below for a DIY option.


Here’s a DIY Option…

Supplies you’ll need

- Cardboard

- Scissors or box cutter

- Lights

- Container to store lights

- Masking / washi tape

- A curious kitty (optional)

1. Find some cardboard

Use any sturdy cardboard you have lying around. You’ll want to cut a square or rectangle based on the size of the container you’ll be using.

 

2. Create a cord holder

You don’t have to get fancy here, just make two cuts on opposite sides of the cardboard. This will hold the cord in place. Once it’s secure, start wrapping.

 

3. Label

We’re using velcro labels here but for the DIY version, try masking tape or washi tape.

 

disclaimers:

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