How to Protect Holiday Decorations from Pests in Storage

When was the last time you thought about your holiday decorations? If you’re like most people, it was probably sometime back in January when you put them away for the season. Because your holiday decor gets forgotten for months at a time, it can become a perfect target for pests as a quiet, secluded nesting area. Unfortunately, this can mean that cherished, irreplaceable decorations are put at risk of being ruined. You’ll also be in for an unpleasant surprise when you pull your boxes out to decorate for the holidays. To protect your decorations from pests, not to mention your home and family, you need to know how to keep pests out. All-American Pest Control has the tips you need.

Why Do Pests Target Stored Holiday Decorations?

There are a few reasons why pests target your stored holiday decorations.

• Nesting- Storage boxes, especially cardboard ones, make great nesting sites. Pests may also use pieces of the cardboard as a nesting material even if they don’t live inside the boxes. Oftentimes, the items inside also make good nesting materials. Fabrics from stockings and tree skirts, ribbons, and wrapping paper can all be used for pest nests.

• Food- Natural decorations, like wreaths, may act as a food source. Many pests also eat cardboard, glue, and other materials found in many decorations.

• Water- Holiday decorations are often stored in areas with a lot of moisture. Basements or crawlspaces can collect moisture, making them more attractive areas for pests.

What Should You Do Before Storing Holiday Decor?

In a few weeks, you’ll be ready to pack up all of your holiday decor and put it away until next year. By taking some smart steps now, you can save yourself a lot of trouble later. Use our pre-storage checklist to ensure you’re storing your holiday decor in a safe way to deter pests.

• Wipe down all non-fabric items to remove food residue, glitter, dust, or organic materials.

• Discard real wreaths, garlands, and pinecones since they often carry bugs or eggs.

• Wash and thoroughly dry fabrics, like tree skirts, stockings, or plush ornaments.

• Inspect ornaments and decorations for any signs of pest activity.

• Wrap fragile items in bubble wrap or tissue to prevent breakage and dust buildup.

• Coil light strings carefully to avoid tangles and storage damage.

• Store items in plastic storage bins that have tightly fitting lids.

What Storage Containers Keep Pests Out?

When it comes to packing your holiday decor away, the type of container you choose matters. Cardboard boxes are a common storage container, but they’re also the ones you should avoid using. Cardboard is easily damaged, can be used as food or nesting materials by pests, and allows pests to get inside easily. Instead of cardboard boxes, All-American recommends the following:

• Use airtight, plastic bins with tight-fitting lids.
• For plush or fabric items, vacuum-sealed bags offer both moisture and pest protection.
• Choose containers with locking mechanisms to keep rodents and bugs out.
• Label bins clearly to reduce unnecessary opening and shifting.

Where Should You Store Holiday Items?

Now that you know how to store items and what to store them in, the question turns to what location is the best place to store your holiday decor. There are a few things to consider when deciding on which location to choose.

• Items should be stored in a clean, dry area.

• Avoid garages, attics, and basements unless they are climate-controlled and free of excess humidity.

• Elevate containers off the ground using shelving to reduce access points for pests.

• Avoid storing items near pet food, bird seed, or other attractants.

• Ensure the space is decluttered since pests thrive in crowded conditions.

Can Natural Repellents Help Prevent Infestation?

There are mixed reviews when it comes to natural repellents. Some people notice results, while others claim they're a waste of time and money. If you want to try a natural repellent, it’s unlikely to make a pest problem worse, as long as you’re using non-toxic options that aren’t going to harm your family. There are a few things to consider:

• Use cedar blocks, peppermint oil, or lavender sachets inside bins or storage closets.

• Replace them every few months to maintain their potency.

• Avoid spraying chemicals directly on decor, especially items with fabric or paint.

How Often Should You Check Your Storage?

Once your holiday decorations are in storage, they’re usually out of sight and out of mind. However, it’s a good idea to check them every now and then to make sure that pests haven’t moved in. If you can identify an infestation in its early stages, it’s far easier to get rid of it. 

We recommend setting a reminder and inspecting your storage bins at least once per season for signs of damage or pest activity. Look for chew marks, droppings, urine, shed skins, eggs, and nesting materials. If any signs are present, isolate the bin, clean thoroughly, reassess your storage practices, and get in touch with All-American for a professional pest inspection.

What Mistakes Can Lead to Pest Problems in Holiday Storage?

There are plenty of things you can do to attract pests. Consider this your “Don’t List”:

• Use scented boxes

• Skip cleaning steps before putting away decor

• Store items in damp, dark, or cluttered areas

• Ignore signs of an infestation, past or present

• Put items in boxes without lids

What to Do If You Spot Signs of Pests in Stored Decorations?

As we mentioned earlier, if you see signs of pests in your storage boxes, you can’t just ignore them. Not only does that box need to be carefully cleaned out, but you also need to make sure the infestation hasn’t spread. All-American recommends:

• Removing the affected box and items immediately.

• Cleaning surrounding bins or shelves.

• Vacuuming the area and wiping it with a mild disinfectant.

• Discarding damaged or contaminated items.

• Replace cardboard boxes with pest-proof storage immediately.

• Contacting the pros at All-American to schedule a pest inspection.

A professional pest inspection will help you determine the extent of your pest problem and what next steps are necessary, if any.

Give Yourself a Pest-Free Christmas With All-American

Are you ready to protect your home and holiday keepsakes from pests year-round? Schedule a preventative service with All-American Pest Control. Sometimes pests sneak inside despite your best DIY efforts, but with a little help from All-American, you won’t have to worry about damaged decor or unwanted guests this holiday season. 

Our home pest control or green choice pest control is designed to protect your home through every changing season, ensuring your stored items stay pest-free throughout the year, along with your entire house. Don’t let pests put a damper on your holidays. Give yourself the gift of a pest-free home this Christmas by contacting All-American Pest Control today.

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Since 1961, All-American Pest Control has been your go-to team of trusted pest experts for homes, businesses, and home builders throughout Nashville and Middle Tennessee. Our expert team offers termite treatments, mosquito reduction, rodent removal, ant and spider control, and wasp nest removal—keeping your property protected year-round. As a local, family-owned company, we take pride in offering reliable, professional pest solutions with outstanding customer service.

We proudly serve: Sango, Woodlawn, Cunningham, Palmyra, Southside, Fredonia, Hilldale, Hickory Point, Clarksville, Ashland Hills, New Providence, St. Bethlehem, Needmore, Oakridge, Port Royal, Shady Grove, South Guthrie, Southaven, Dotsonville, Hampton Station, Marion, Rossview, and the entire Montgomery County and Greater Nashville areas.

For trusted pest control in Nashville, TN, and these surrounding communities, contact All-American Pest Control today! Call (615) 824-8814 or Schedule a Free Consultation online.