What's the best way to store Christmas garlands to avoid damage or wear and tear?

Proper storage of Christmas garlands is essential to preserving their shape, texture, and overall quality for future use. 
Dust and Clean: Before packing away, clean your Christmas garlands to remove any dust, debris, or residues from the holiday season. If the garland is artificial, gently wipe it with a damp cloth. If it's natural, make sure it's dry before storage.Light Cleaning for Lit Garlands: If your garland is lit with lights, ensure the lights are turned off and unplugged. Wipe the wires and lightbulbs with a soft cloth.
Loosely Coil or Roll: Rather than folding Christmas garlands, loosely coil or roll them. This prevents kinks, bending, or creases in the material, which could lead to permanent damage.Tie with Twine or Ribbon: For Christmas garlands that are longer, secure the coils with twine or ribbon to hold them in place. Avoid using tight elastic bands as these can leave impressions or cause stretching.
Storage Bins or Boxes: Use plastic bins or boxes with lids to keep Christmas garlands protected from dust, moisture, and pests. Clear bins are great because you can easily identify the contents without opening them.
Avoid Plastic Bags: While convenient, plastic bags can trap moisture, leading to mold or mildew on natural Christmas garlands or the deterioration of artificial materials. Opt for breathable fabric bags instead if possible.
Separate Fragile Decorations: If your garland has ornaments or delicate items attached, carefully place them in smaller containers or wrap them with tissue paper to prevent damage.
Temperature Control: Avoid storing Christmas garlands in damp, hot, or humid areas such as attics or basements, as these environments can cause the materials to degrade or become musty. A cool, dry closet or under-bed storage is ideal.Avoid Sunlight: Prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause fading, particularly with colored or glittered garlands. Store your Christmas garlands in a dark space to preserve their colors.
Use Garment Bags or Storage Racks: For large or heavy garlands (especially those with natural elements like pinecones or berries), consider hanging them on a coat rack or a specialized storage hook. This keeps them from getting squashed and maintains their shape.
Garland Hangers: You can also use specialized storage hangers for garlands, similar to the ones used for wreaths. This is a particularly good option for large or long Christmas garlands.
Remove Batteries or Plug-ins: If your garland is battery-operated or has a plug-in connection, remove the batteries or unplug the lights to prevent leakage or corrosion. Store them separately in a small ziplock bag.Wrap Lights Gently: If the garland is illuminated, carefully wrap the lights around the garland without tugging on the wires. If possible, remove the lights and store them separately in a coiled fashion to prevent strain.
When placing Christmas garlands in storage containers, avoid overpacking. Allow enough space for them to breathe and prevent crushing. Overstuffed containers can deform the garland over time.By following these storage tips, you can ensure that your Christmas garlands stay in good condition and are ready for the next holiday season.