You’re proud of your frosted Christmas tree, so storing it properly is the best way to ensure that it stays pristine and beautiful for many holiday seasons to come. Flocked trees, with their delicate artificial snow coating, require special Christmas tree care to prevent damage and maintain their faux snow appearance.

What is a Flocked Christmas Tree?

A flocked Christmas tree, or frosted Christmas trees as they are sometimes called, is an artificial tree that has been coated with a white, faux snow substance to create the appearance of a tree covered in freshly fallen snow. This decorative technique, known as flocking, uses a mixture of adhesive and cellulose fibers or other flocking material to get that realistic, wintry look. Flocked trees add a cozy and festive ambiance to any holiday decor, and you and your family will love the charm and magic of a snowy winter wonderland that it evokes. Available in various sizes and styles, flocked Christmas trees come pre-lit or unlit, so you can choose exactly how you want to decorate and enhance the holiday spirit in your home.

Proper Storage Techniques for Flocked Christmas Trees

Proper storage of a flocked Christmas tree begins with thoughtful and meticulous disassembly. The first step is to remove all the decorations, including ornaments, lights, and tinsel, and make sure each item is stored in its respective box or container. Then, gently shake the tree to extract any loose flocking material. Carefully take apart the tree, starting from the top section and working your way down. Pre-lit flocked trees should be handled carefully to avoid tangling or damaging the lights. Label each section for easy reassembly next season, and consider taking photos during the disassembly process for easy reference.
Once disassembled, wrap the tree to protect its delicate flocking material. Use plastic wrap or specially designed Christmas tree storage bags to cover each section. Plastic wrap can be tightly secured around the tree branches, and will provide a barrier against dust and moisture. For added protection, especially if you live in a humid climate, consider adding silica gel packets to absorb excess moisture. Make sure that the wrap is snug but not so tight that it compresses the branches and damages the flocking. For larger sections, consider using breathable fabric covers to prevent mildew while still protecting against dust.
Finally, choose a storage location that offers your flocked Christmas tree a stable environment. A cool, dry place such as a basement, attic or closet may be ideal (consider the amount of humidity these areas in your home contain). Avoid areas with extreme temperatures or high humidity, because these conditions can damage the flocking and the tree itself. Store the tree sections horizontally on sturdy shelving or in a storage container that stops them from being crushed. Label the storage containers clearly, so you can easily retrieve your tree the next holiday season.

How to Preserve Flocked Christmas Trees

Preserving your flocked Christmas tree begins with proper handling and placement.

· Placement: Position the tree away from direct sunlight, heaters, and vents to prevent the flocking from drying out and shedding. Flocked Christmas trees are fire retardant, but not fireproof. Ensure the tree is placed in a cool, dry location to maintain the integrity of the flocking material.

· Handling: Handle the tree gently to prevent the flocking from flaking off. When decorating, be cautious with ornaments and lights to avoid disturbing the flocked branches.

· Maintenance: Regularly check the tree for any fallen flocking and gently remove it from the floor or surrounding area. Use a soft brush or feather duster to remove dust or debris from the flocked branches.

· Storage: Artificial Christmas trees need careful disassembly at the end of the season. Wrap each section in plastic or a Christmas tree storage bag to protect the
flocking from dust and damage. Store the tree in a cool, dry place to prevent moisture buildup and mold growth.

· Cleaning: Avoid using water or cleaning solutions directly on the flocked branches. For light cleaning, use a vacuum with a brush attachment set to a low suction setting.

· General Tips: Minimize movement and repositioning of the tree once it’s set up. Keep pets and small children away from the tree to prevent accidental damage to the flocked Christmas tree decor.

How to Ensure Flocked Christmas Tree Longevity

Purchasing the Right Flocked Christmas Tree

Ensuring the longevity of a flocked Christmas tree starts with selecting a high-quality tree made from durable materials. When purchasing, look for flocked trees with sturdy branches and a well-applied flocking that adheres well to the needles. High-quality flocked trees are designed to withstand multiple seasons of use, making them a smart investment. You should also consider the tree's storage needs and make sure you have the appropriate space and materials to protect it throughout the rest of the year.

Proper Care & Maintenance of Your Flocked Christmas Tree

Proper care and maintenance during the holiday season are important for extending the life of your flocked tree. Place the tree in a location away from direct sunlight, heating vents, and fireplaces, because excessive heat can cause the flocking to discolor or deteriorate. Regularly dust the tree using a soft brush or a feather duster to remove any accumulation of dust and debris. Avoid using water or cleaning products, as moisture can damage the flocking. Gentle handling when adding or removing decorations will also help maintain the integrity of the flocking.

Off-Season Christmas Tree Care

When the holiday season ends, careful disassembly and storage will help preserve your flocked Christmas tree. Remove all the decorations gently, starting from the top and working your way down to avoid disturbing the flocking. Disassemble the tree sections and wrap each one in plastic wrap or a Christmas tree storage bag to protect against dust and moisture. Store the tree in a cool, dry place, such as an attic, closet, or basement. Keep it off the ground and away from heavy objects that could crush the branches.

Effective Storage Techniques for Flocked Artificial Christmas Trees

Before storing, remove all of the ornaments, lights, and other decorations carefully to avoid disturbing the flocking. Gently shake the tree to dislodge any loose flocking material and dust. Disassemble the tree section by section, starting from the top, to minimize the stress on tree branches and flocking. If the tree is pre-lit, take extra care to prevent the lights from tangling or damaging the flocked surfaces during disassembly.

Proper wrapping is essential to protecting flocked trees from dust, moisture, and physical damage. Use plastic wrap or tree storage bags for each section of the tree. Plastic wrap gives a tight seal that keeps dust and moisture out, while Christmas tree storage bags offer a more breathable option that still protects against dirt and debris. The wrapping should be snug but not too tight, as overly compressed tree branches can result in damaged flocking.

Choosing the right storage location is crucial for maintaining the tree’s condition. Store the wrapped tree sections in a cool, dry place where the temperature and humidity levels remain relatively stable. Avoid storing the tree in areas prone to extreme temperatures or high humidity, as these conditions can deteriorate the flocking and the tree’s structure. Place the tree sections horizontally on sturdy shelving or in a container that prevents them from being crushed or deformed. Label the storage containers clearly to facilitate easy retrieval and reassembly next holiday season.

How To Keep a Flocked Christmas tree from Turning Yellow

To keep a flocked Christmas tree from turning yellow, it's important to minimize its exposure to direct sunlight and heat. UV rays from sunlight can cause the flocking to fade and yellow over time, so position your tree away from windows and skylights. Also avoid placing the tree near heat sources like fireplaces, radiators or heating vents, because excessive heat can accelerate the discoloration process. Maintaining a cool, stable indoor temperature helps preserve the tree's pristine white appearance throughout the holiday season.

Regular cleaning and proper storage will also help prevent a flocked Christmas tree from turning yellow. During the holiday season, gently dust the tree to remove any buildup that could lead to discoloration. After the holidays, carefully disassemble the tree and wrap each section properly to protect it from dust and moisture. Store the tree in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and temperature fluctuations. By following these steps, you can significantly reduce the risk of your beloved flocked Christmas tree yellowing.

Of course you want to preserve the beauty of your flocked Christmas tree, and make sure that it is ready to be cherished for many holiday seasons to come. By following the recommended steps—carefully disassembling the tree, protecting each section with appropriate wrapping, and choosing an optimal storage location—you can be sure your tree remains pristine and ready to bring holiday cheer year after year so you and your family can enjoy your very own winter wonderland.