Storing Halloween Decorations: Simple Tips That Work

Halloween is over, the decorations are coming down, and now you’ve got to figure out where to put everything until next year.

Storing Halloween decorations doesn’t have to mean throwing everything into a box and hoping for the best. A little care when packing things away can save you time, money, and frustration when Halloween comes around again.

From fragile ornaments and tangled garlands to bulky outdoor decorations and costumes, having a simple storage system makes it easier to keep everything organized and protected.

You don’t need expensive storage solutions or a perfectly organized home. You just need a practical way to pack everything away so you can find it again next year.

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How To Store Halloween Decorations

Halloween decorations come in all shapes and sizes, from small ornaments and hanging garlands to large outdoor displays. Unfortunately, that means there isn’t one storage solution that works for everything.

Before you start taking everything down, think about how you’re going to pack it away. Rather than pulling down all your decorations and ending up with a huge pile to sort, tackle a few items at a time.

Here are some simple steps to make storing your Halloween decorations easier:

1. Sort as you go. Put similar decorations together and check whether anything is broken, damaged, or no longer wanted. There’s no point storing things you won’t use again. You might find it easier to group decorations by where you use them, such as indoor decorations, outdoor decorations, or items for a particular room.
2. Clean your decorations. Remove dust, dirt, and cobwebs before packing everything away. Check the care instructions for anything delicate or electrical.
3. Make sure everything is completely dry. Packing away damp decorations can encourage mold and mildew, particularly if they’ll be stored for several months.
4. Choose suitable storage containers. Fragile ornaments need protection, while larger decorations might need their own boxes or bags.
5. Label everything. Make a note of what’s inside each container so you’re not opening every box when it’s time to decorate next year.

You don’t have to get everything packed away in one afternoon. Working through your decorations a little at a time can make the whole job feel much more manageable.

Choosing Halloween Storage Bins

Choosing the right storage bins can make a big difference to how well your Halloween decorations are protected.

But before you rush out and buy new Halloween storage bins, check what you already have at home. You might have perfectly good containers that you can reuse.

The type of storage box you need will depend on what you’re putting inside and where you’re planning to keep it.

Here are a few things to consider:

• Plastic storage bins with lids: These are useful for keeping decorations together and protecting them from dust. Choose sturdy containers with lids that fit securely.
• Clear storage bins: Being able to see what’s inside makes finding decorations easier, especially if you have several boxes.
• Smaller storage boxes: These are ideal for delicate ornaments, Halloween lights, and smaller accessories that might get lost in a large container.
• Stackable storage bins: If storage space is limited, stackable containers can help you make better use of shelves or cupboards. Just make sure the heavier boxes are at the bottom.
• Cardboard boxes: These can be a budget-friendly option for some decorations, but they’re not ideal for damp garages, sheds, or other areas where moisture and pests could be a problem.

Think about the size of your containers, too.

One enormous Halloween storage box might sound convenient, but once it’s full, it could be difficult to lift or move.

Sometimes several smaller containers are easier to manage than one large, heavy box.

If you’re buying new storage bins, measure the space where you’ll keep them first. A quick measurement now can save you the frustration of buying containers that don’t fit your available space.

You don’t need matching boxes or expensive organizing products. The aim is simply to pack everything away safely so you can find it again next year. If you’re organizing decorations for other holidays, too, I’ve got more ideas for storing your holiday decorations safely between seasons.

If you’re storing several types of decorations in one large bin, use smaller boxes or dividers inside to keep fragile items separate from heavier decorations.

Storing Halloween Ornaments

Halloween ornaments can be tricky to store, especially if you’ve collected delicate or breakable decorations over the years.

Before packing them away, check that they’re clean and completely dry. Fragile ornaments need a little extra protection to prevent chips, scratches, and breakages while they’re in storage.

You can use:

• Tissue paper for wrapping smaller, delicate ornaments.
• Bubble wrap to provide extra cushioning for breakable decorations.
• Cotton fabric or pieces of clean, soft fabric to protect ornaments from scratches.

I like to place wrapped ornaments into smaller cardboard boxes first. This keeps them together and stops them from moving around too much.

If the ornaments are small, I’ll then put those boxes inside a larger plastic storage container with other Halloween decorations.

Try to fill any empty spaces with suitable packing material so delicate items don’t knock against each other when the container is moved.

Remember to keep heavier decorations at the bottom and lighter, more fragile items on top.

Taking a few extra minutes to protect your ornaments now means you’re less likely to discover broken decorations when you unpack everything next Halloween.

How To Clean And Store Halloween Garlands

Halloween garlands can collect quite a bit of dust, especially if they’ve been hanging around your home for several weeks.

Whether your garlands are made from plastic, artificial foliage, or fabric, it’s important to clean them before putting them into storage.

I clean my artificial garlands in a similar way to how I clean my artificial Christmas tree.

I start by gently removing any loose dust with a soft cloth. For plastic garlands that can safely be wiped, I’ll use a slightly damp cloth to clean the branches, leaves, and other decorations.

You do need to be careful with delicate materials, glitter, and painted decorations, as moisture or cleaning products could damage them. Always check the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions first.

Once I’ve finished cleaning, I go over the garland with a soft, dry cloth to remove any remaining moisture.

I then leave it to air dry completely before packing it away.

It’s worth taking a little extra time over this step because storing damp garlands can lead to mold, mildew, or damage while they’re packed away for several months.

Once your garland is completely dry, it’s time to pack it away.

You can buy a garland storage bag, which can help protect your garland from dust and keep it together until next Halloween.

But you don’t need to buy a special storage bag.

An old, clean sheet works well, too. Lay the garland flat on the sheet and gently roll it up, being careful not to crush any delicate decorations.

You can then place the wrapped garland inside a plastic storage container to keep it protected.

Avoid packing heavy decorations on top, as these could flatten the garland or damage its branches.

If your garland has lights attached, make sure they’re switched off and remove any batteries before storing it. Keep the wires loosely arranged so they don’t become tangled or damaged.

Whichever method you choose, the aim is to keep your garland clean, protected, and ready to use again next year. If you have cords and cables on your garland that need organizing i have the perfect article for you to read.

How To Store Large Halloween Decorations

Large Halloween decorations can be some of the trickiest items to store. Skeletons, oversized pumpkins, outdoor displays, and inflatables can take up a surprising amount of space once Halloween is over.

Before packing everything away, think about where each decoration will fit and how you can protect it from damage.

If you have a garage or shed, these might be suitable places for larger decorations, provided the space is dry and the items won’t be exposed to extreme temperatures or moisture.

You might not need a special storage container for every decoration. Some larger items can be covered with a clean sheet or protective cover to keep dust off while they’re not being used.

Where possible, take decorations apart according to the manufacturer’s instructions to make them easier to store. Keep screws, stakes, and other small parts together in a labeled bag.

Storing Halloween Inflatables

Halloween inflatables are often easier to store than rigid decorations because they can be folded once they’re completely deflated.

Before packing an inflatable away:

• Wipe away dirt and debris, following the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions.
• Make sure the fabric is completely dry, including seams and folds.
• Allow it to deflate fully before folding it loosely.
• Check the fan, cables, and attachments for damage.
• Keep stakes, ropes, and other accessories together so nothing gets lost.

If the inflatable came with a storage bag, you can use that. Otherwise, choose a suitable container that protects it from dust, moisture, and pests.

Avoid tightly compressing the inflatable, as this could damage the fabric, wiring, or attached components.

How To Store Large Outdoor Halloween Decorations

Large skeletons, tombstones, and other outdoor Halloween props need slightly different storage methods.

Start by cleaning off any mud, leaves, and dirt. Make sure everything is completely dry before putting it away.

If the decorations have removable parts, carefully dismantle them according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

For fragile or painted decorations, use soft wrapping or padding to prevent scratches and breakages.

Keep smaller accessories and fixings in labeled bags, ideally stored with the decoration they belong to.

Try to store large decorations somewhere they won’t be knocked over, crushed, or damaged by other items.

If you regularly struggle to find room for your Halloween decorations, it’s worth thinking about storage space before buying anything new. Before buying any more large Halloween decorations, it’s worth checking whether you’ve got somewhere to store them for the rest of the year.

How To Store Halloween Costumes

If you buy Halloween costumes with the intention of wearing them again, it’s worth taking a little extra care when putting them away.

The last thing you want is to discover next Halloween that your favorite costume has been damaged, creased, or gone moldy while in storage.

Start by checking whether the costume needs cleaning. Always follow the care label, as some costumes can go in the washing machine while others need hand washing or specialist cleaning.

Make sure everything is completely dry before packing it away, including any linings, padding, or accessories.

How you store your Halloween costumes will depend on the material and how much space you have available.

• Garment bags: Ideal for costumes that need to hang up, particularly those with delicate fabrics, structured shapes, or decorations that could get crushed.
• Storage boxes: Useful for folded costumes. You can place acid-free tissue paper between delicate layers to help protect the fabric.
• Vacuum storage bags: Can save space when storing simple, washable fabric costumes that won’t be damaged by compression.

I don’t have much spare space in my wardrobe, so I’ve used vacuum storage bags for clothing that I want to keep but don’t need regularly.

However, I wouldn’t recommend vacuum bags for every Halloween costume. Anything with foam, stiff accessories, sequins, or delicate decorations could lose its shape or become damaged when compressed.

Whatever storage method you choose, make sure you label the container or bag.

You can attach a label to the outside or, if you’re using a clear vacuum bag, place a card inside where you’ll still be able to read it once the air has been removed.

That way, you won’t have to open several bags just to find one costume next Halloween.

Don’t forget to keep any matching accessories together, so you’re not searching for missing pieces when it’s time to dress up again.

Storing Halloween Masks

Halloween masks have come a long way since I was a child, and some of the designs you can buy now are incredibly detailed.

If you’ve invested in a good Halloween mask, you’ll want to make sure it stays in good condition so you can use it again next year.

Start by checking the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions. Different materials need different care, particularly latex, rubber, fabric, and painted masks.

Once the mask is clean and completely dry, think about how you’re going to protect its shape.

For masks that could become flattened or misshapen, loosely fill the inside with clean, acid-free tissue paper to help support the shape. Avoid overstuffing or stretching the material.

You can then wrap the mask in tissue paper and place it in a suitable storage box, making sure nothing heavy is placed on top.

I prefer using plastic storage containers because they help keep everything together and protect the contents from dust.

You could also add a silica gel packet to help manage moisture inside the container. However, this doesn’t replace making sure the mask is completely dry before storing it.

Keep silica gel packets away from children and pets, and avoid placing them directly against delicate mask materials.

Finally, label the box with the masks inside and their sizes. This is particularly useful if you have several Halloween costumes and masks for different family members.

Taking a little care when packing them away can help prevent damage and make it easier to find the right mask next Halloween.

Where To Store Halloween Decorations

Once you’ve packed your Halloween decorations into suitable containers, the next question is where you’re going to keep them for the rest of the year.

Not everyone has a garage, attic, or spare room dedicated to storage, so it’s important to make the most of the space you already have.

The best place to store Halloween decorations is somewhere dry, protected from extreme temperatures, and easy enough to access when you need everything again next year.

Here are a few places to consider:

• Garage: A garage can be useful for larger Halloween decorations and storage bins, but check for damp, pests, and temperature changes. Keeping containers off the floor on sturdy shelving can help protect them.
• Attic: If your attic is suitable for storage, it could be an option for sturdy decorations. However, extreme heat and cold can damage certain materials, including delicate fabrics, plastics, and electronics.
• Closets: A hallway, bedroom, or spare-room closet can be a good place for smaller Halloween decorations, costumes, and fragile items.
• Under the bed: Low-profile storage containers can make use of space that might otherwise be wasted. This works particularly well for smaller decorations and accessories.
• Storage cupboards: If you have space in a cupboard, consider keeping seasonal decorations together so they’re easier to find.

You don’t have to store every Halloween decoration in the same place.

For example, you might keep larger outdoor decorations in the garage while storing delicate ornaments and costumes inside the house.

Just make sure you know where everything is!

If you have several storage locations, write down where you’ve put each box. You could keep a simple list on your phone or add the location to the label.

The most important thing is choosing somewhere that will protect your decorations until you’re ready to use them again.

There’s no point carefully wrapping everything if the boxes are then left somewhere damp or where they could get damaged.

How To Label Your Halloween Storage Boxes

Once you’ve packed your Halloween decorations away, don’t forget to label your storage boxes.

You might remember exactly where everything is now, but will you remember when Halloween comes around again next year?

How detailed your labels need to be will depend on how many boxes you have and how much information you want to include.

If you only have one or two containers, a simple label such as Halloween Decorations might be enough.

But if you’ve got several boxes, more specific labels can make finding things much easier. For example:

• Halloween indoor decorations
• Halloween outdoor decorations
• Halloween ornaments and fragile items
• Halloween lights and garlands
• Halloween costumes and accessories

You could also write a list of everything inside each box on a card and attach it to the container.

I prefer labels that are easy to read without having to move or open every box. Putting a label on the side as well as the lid can help when your containers are stacked.

You don’t need an expensive labeling system. A marker and some labels will do the job, although a label maker can be useful if you prefer everything neatly printed.

The important thing is being able to find what you need without unpacking every Halloween decoration you own. If you’d like a more detailed system, take a look at my tips for creating simple holiday storage labels

Tips For Putting Away Halloween Decorations

Before you put your Halloween decorations away for another year, it’s worth doing one final check.

• Check everything is clean and dry. Even a little moisture can cause problems when decorations are stored for several months.
• Make sure fragile items are protected. Check that ornaments, masks, and delicate decorations won’t get crushed.
• Keep accessories together. Store spare batteries, hooks, stakes, and other accessories with the decorations they belong to, but remove batteries from battery-powered decorations first.
• Check your labels. Make sure you can easily identify what’s inside each box without opening it.
• Think about where you’re storing everything. Choose a dry, suitable location where decorations won’t be damaged.
• Make a note of anything you need to replace. If you’ve discovered broken lights or decorations that need replacing, write them down now rather than trying to remember next Halloween.

You don’t need a complicated system for storing Halloween decorations. Taking a little care when packing everything away can make decorating your home next year so much easier.

Make Next Halloween A Little Easier

Now that you’ve got your decorations packed away, why not get a head start on next Halloween?

My free Halloween Planning Checklist helps you keep track of decorations, costumes, food, and everything else you need to remember.

It’s a simple way to get your plans out of your head and onto paper, so there’s less to think about when Halloween comes around again.