Without proper care, an artificial Christmas tree will turn into a pitiful, dusty skeleton in just a couple of seasons.
Experienced decorators told us how to maintain its ideal appearance and extend its life for many years.
The Christmas tree needs to be not just washed, but properly cleaned. Regular washing in the shower can damage the fastenings and lead to corrosion of the frame.
Cleaning the tree after the New Year holidays
Dismantling and shaking
Do not remove toys and garlands immediately. Carefully take the assembled Christmas tree out onto the balcony, bathtub, or cover the floor with a large film. Take it by the barrel and shake it well several times. This will remove 70% of dry dust and glitter.
Vacuum cleaner
Use the upholstery brush attachment on low power. Carefully, tier by tier, go through all the branches, directing the dust from the trunk to the tips. Particular attention should be paid to the internal parts near the trunk, where the dust layer is densest.
Wet processing
If the dust is deeply embedded, prepare a solution. Mix 3 liters of cool water and 2-3 tbsp. l. dishwashing detergents.
Dampen a soft microfiber cloth in the solution, wring it well and wipe each branch in the direction of needle growth. Do not use showers, sprays or complete immersion in water.
Cleaning the barrel and stand
Wipe the metal or plastic barrel with a damp cloth. Clean the stand from debris and dried water.
Complete drying
Leave the tree disassembled or assembled in sections in a dry, warm place for at least 24-48 hours. Moisture in the fastening areas guarantees mold and rust.
How to properly store an artificial Christmas tree
Improper storage breaks branches and makes packing a nightmare.
- Do not store in plastic bags. They create a greenhouse effect.
- Use breathable materials: special zippered covers, old cotton sheets, fabric sugar bags or cardboard boxes from the Christmas tree itself.
- The “envelope” method for branches. Once dry, carefully press the branches of each section to the trunk, wrap the section in an old sheet or thin packing cardboard and secure with rope. This will protect the shape.
- Ideal location: dry, cool, dark. Pantry, mezzanine, dry closet on the insulated balcony. Avoid damp garages and basements.
- Sign sections. If the tree is collapsible, mark with a marker on masking tape which section is lower and which is upper. Will save your nerves next December.
What you should never do with a Christmas tree
- Use a steam cleaner. Plastic or PVC may become deformed.
- Dry with a hairdryer or heater.
- Store with garlands attached. Wires bend, light bulbs press on branches.
- Place heavy boxes on top of the packed Christmas tree.
- Use chemical cleaners, especially those containing chlorine or alcohol.
Spend just 1-2 hours of proper care after the holidays – and your artificial beauty will celebrate the New Year like new for decades.
