An artificial Christmas tree is a wonderful investment that brings festive cheer to your home year after year. Unlike real trees, artificial trees don’t shed needles or require watering, but they do need some care to stay looking their best. Follow our ultimate guide to ensure your artificial Christmas tree remains vibrant and beautiful throughout the holiday season and for many years to come.
1. UNBOXING AND SETUP
Unboxing Your Tree
When you first take your tree out of storage, carefully unpack each section. Keep the packaging for future use; it can be helpful for storing the tree after the holiday season.
Setting Up
- Identify Sections: Most artificial trees come in sections that are labeled for easy assembly. Start with the base and work your way up.
- Hinge Construction: If your tree has hinged branches, allow them to fall naturally into place, then adjust them as needed.
2. FLUFFING THE BRANCHES
Fluffing is essential for making your artificial tree look full and natural.
- Start at the Bottom: Begin with the bottom section and work your way up.
- Separate Each Branch: Spread out each branch to cover as much space as possible. Angle some branches upward, some outward, and some slightly downward to create depth.
- Take Your Time: Fluffing can be time-consuming, but it’s worth it for a beautiful tree.
3. CLEANING YOUR TREE
Dusting
Over time, artificial trees can collect dust.
- Use a Soft Cloth: Gently wipe the branches with a dry or slightly damp cloth.
- Vacuum: Use a vacuum with a brush attachment to remove dust from hard-to-reach areas.
Deep Cleaning
If your tree needs a deeper clean:
- Shower Method: Take the tree sections outside and lightly spray them with a garden hose. Let them dry completely before bringing them back inside.
- Mild Soap Solution: For stubborn dirt, use a mild soap solution and a soft cloth to gently clean the branches. Rinse with water and allow to dry thoroughly.
4. LIGHTING CARE FOR UNLIT TREES
For unlit trees, adding your own lights gives you the freedom to customize your tree’s look each year.
- Check Lights Before Decorating: Test all light strands to ensure they’re working before wrapping them around the tree.
- Distribute Evenly: Start at the base and work your way up, ensuring the lights are evenly distributed for a uniform glow.
- Secure Lights: Use clips or twist ties to secure the lights to the branches, preventing them from slipping or moving.
5. DECORATING TIPS
- Balance the Decorations: Distribute ornaments evenly to prevent the tree from looking lopsided.
- Secure Heavy Ornaments: Use strong hooks or wire to secure heavier ornaments to avoid drooping branches.
- Garland and Ribbon: Add garlands or ribbons before placing ornaments to avoid knocking off decorations.
6. STORING YOUR TREE
Disassembly
- Remove Decorations: Carefully remove all decorations and lights.
- Disassemble Sections: Take the tree apart section by section, starting from the top.
- Flatten Branches: Gently push the branches upward and inward to flatten them.
Storage
- Use Original Box: If possible, store the tree in its original box. If the box is damaged, consider investing in a tree storage bag or container.
- Cool, Dry Place: Store the tree in a cool, dry place to prevent damage from moisture or extreme temperatures.
- Label Sections: Label the sections to make reassembly easier next year.
7. PREVENTING DAMAGE
- Avoid Direct Sunlight: Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can cause fading.
- Keep Away from Heat Sources: Avoid placing the tree near fireplaces, heaters, or radiators to prevent warping and overheating.
- Handle with Care: When moving the tree, handle it gently to avoid damaging the branches.
CONCLUSION
With proper care, your artificial Christmas tree can remain a centerpiece of holiday joy for many years. By following these tips for setup, fluffing, cleaning, lighting, decorating, and storage, you’ll ensure that your tree stays as beautiful and vibrant as the day you first brought it home.
At Little Grove, we believe in creating lasting memories and festive traditions. Enjoy the beauty and convenience of your artificial tree and make this holiday season the best one yet.
Happy holidays and happy tree decorating from Little Grove!