Halloween is over for another year, but what do you do with your over-sized hanging skeletons, spooky signs, costumes and other decor items?

It’s tempting to chuck it all into a few boxes and bags, but fast forward to next October and future-you might wish you had spent a few worthwhile hours packing it all away carefully and categorizing.


Halloween has come and gone, but now it’s time to think about how to store your decorations for next year. Instead of haphazardly throwing everything into boxes, take some time to organize and pack away your items carefully. Here are some expert tips on how to store Halloween decorations effectively:

Professional organizers recommend using stackable plastic bins to store smaller decor items like table settings, napkins, and tea lights. Clear bins make it easy to see what’s inside without having to open them, saving you time and effort during setup and pack-up.

1. Stackable plastic bins

(Image credit: The White Company)

Eliana Coca, owner of E.C House Cleaning, recommends grouping similar items together in labeled bins to make retrieval easier. For larger pieces like table linens and lanterns, consider using 56 qt clear storage boxes with lids, which are stackable and lightweight.


Secure lid

56 qt Clear Storage Box with Lid White

To keep your smaller items organized, consider using stackable drawers like the Vtopmart 4 Pack Clear Stackable Storage Drawers. These drawers are ideal for napkins, table placings, and small decorations, and come with pull-out handles for easy access.

2. Costume storage

Using a vacuum seal bag is brilliant for dense, soft items that take up too much room. Avoid hard items or those with metal clips or zips as they may tear the suction bag.

(Image credit: Future/ Punteha van Terheyden)

For delicate fabric decor and costumes, consider vacuum-sealing them to reduce exposure to dust and moisture. Alternatively, you can fold them neatly and store them in breathable cotton bags to prevent mustiness.

Walmart’s Wovilon storage trunk bags made from thickened cotton are a good option for storing costumes. If you prefer to hang up your costumes, garment bags with moth deterrent scent bags can help protect them from damage.

3. Electrical Halloween decor storage

(Image credit: Target)

To prevent tangled lights, wrap them around small cardboard pieces before storing them in boxes. Consider using a storage organizer specifically designed for lighting to keep your lights organized and tangle-free.

4. Fragile halloween decor storage

(Image credit: Wayfair)

For storing fragile items like ceramic pumpkins or glass ornaments, use bins with dividers or add extra cushioning with bubble wrap. Wrap each piece individually with acid-free tissue paper to prevent damage and discoloration.

5. Skeletons, ghosts, and signs

(Image credit: Lights4Fun)

For larger outdoor Halloween items, store them in bins with UV-blocking lids to prevent fading. Use pool noodles or pipe insulation as buffers inside bins to prevent bending or damage to foam tombstones or skeletons.

6. Wreaths and garlands

(Image credit: Wayfair)

Hang your wreaths using dowels or door hooks to prevent them from getting misshapen. Alternatively, store them in flat boxes under the bed or in a wreath storage bag to keep them protected and dust-free.

7. Be organized

(Image credit: Pottery Barn)

Make an itemized list of all your decorations to keep track of what you have. Use labels or a digital inventory system to organize your storage containers and make it easy to find items next year.

By following these expert tips, you can ensure that your Halloween decorations stay in great condition for years to come. With a little care and organization, you can enjoy a stress-free setup next Halloween!