Whether you're packing up Halloween this week or Christmas in January, a little care now keeps vintage ornaments, music boxes and keepsakes in great shape for years.
1. Sort before you pack
Set aside anything broken or past saving, and fix small things now while you remember.
2. Clean it first
Dust, fingerprints and food residue attract pests and can stain over time. Wipe pieces gently before they go in the box.
3. Use acid-free tissue
Wrap fragile pieces in acid-free tissue paper. Skip newspaper, since the ink can rub off and stain.
4. Give ornaments their own spot
Divided ornament boxes, or even egg cartons for small pieces, keep glass from knocking together.
5. Take out the batteries
Remove batteries from music boxes, lights and animated decorations. Leaking batteries are the number one decoration killer.
6. Tame the lights
Wrap string lights around a piece of cardboard so they come out untangled next year.
7. Choose a climate-controlled spot
Attics and garages swing between hot and cold, which cracks paint, melts glue and warps plastic. A closet or under a bed is better.
8. Label everything
Mark each bin with the holiday and the room. Future you will be grateful.
Adding something special this year? Browse An Alleycat Christmas and our vintage finds.