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Writer's pictureHoliday Light Buddies

Safely Choose, Install, Care for, and Preserve Your Holiday Decorations

Updated: Oct 25, 2023

The holiday season is a magical time of year, filled with warmth, joy, and festive decorations that bring homes to life. However, amidst the excitement of decking the halls, it's essential to prioritize safety and proper care for your holiday decorations. In this blog, we'll explore the key steps to safely choose, install, care for, and preserve your holiday decorations, ensuring a season filled with cheer and free from accidents.

Choosing the Right Decorations

  1. Consider Material Safety: When choosing decorations, opt for those made from non-flammable or flame-resistant materials. Look for labels that indicate they meet safety standards. This is particularly important for items like tree ornaments and garlands that will be near lights.

  2. Check for Small Parts: If you have young children or pets, avoid decorations with small, easily detachable parts that could be a choking hazard.

  3. Verify Electrical Safety: For electric decorations, always buy from reputable brands and ensure they have been tested and approved by a recognized safety organization like Underwriters Laboratories (UL). Faulty wiring can lead to fires, so avoid using damaged or frayed cords.

Installing Decorations Safely

  1. Inspect Lights and Electrical Decorations: Before installing lights, carefully inspect them for any damage. Replace bulbs that are burnt out, and discard any damaged strings. When hanging lights outdoors, ensure that they are rated for outdoor use and follow the manufacturer's guidelines for installation.

  2. Use Stable Supports: When hanging decorations, use sturdy hooks, clips, or hangers that are designed for the specific item's weight and purpose. Avoid overloading outlets or extension cords to prevent electrical fires.

  3. Mind Your Ladder Safety: If you need a ladder to decorate, ensure it's on a level surface, and follow proper ladder safety guidelines. Never overreach or stand on the top rung of a ladder.

Caring for Your Decorations

  1. Storage: After the holiday season, carefully pack away your decorations. Use labeled containers and wrap delicate items in tissue paper or bubble wrap to prevent breakage. Store them in a cool, dry place to avoid damage from humidity.

  2. Ornaments: Protect delicate ornaments by storing them in individual compartments within storage containers. Consider using ornament storage boxes with adjustable dividers.

  3. Lights: To prevent tangles and damage, wrap holiday lights around spools or cardboard and store them in a way that keeps them from becoming a knotted mess.

Preserving the Beauty of Your Decorations

  1. Avoid Sunlight: Keep your decorations away from direct sunlight when on display, as prolonged exposure can cause colors to fade and materials to deteriorate.

  2. Regular Cleaning: Dust and dirt can accumulate on decorations over time. Periodically clean them with a soft brush or cloth to maintain their appearance.

  3. Repair and Replace: If you notice any damage, such as broken ornaments or frayed wires, repair or replace them promptly. It's better to invest in new decorations than to risk safety hazards.


Holiday decorations add a special touch to your home during the festive season, but their beauty should not come at the expense of safety. By following these guidelines for safely choosing, installing, caring for, and preserving your holiday decorations, you can enjoy a season filled with joy, peace of mind, and cherished memories with family and friends. So, go ahead and deck the halls, knowing that you've taken the necessary steps to keep your home both beautiful and safe for the holidays.


With all the materials and efforts, hiring professional holiday light installers is a wise choice for ensuring a safe and expertly executed display, as they have the experience to handle electrical connections and complex installations. Light Buddies professionals can also save you valuable time and effort during the busy holiday season, allowing you to focus on enjoying festivities with your loved ones rather than climbing ladders and untangling lights. Moreover, by hiring us, you can expect a stunning and customized holiday lighting design that enhances the beauty of your home while eliminating the stress and potential safety risks associated with DIY installations.


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