With October in full swing, it’s time to bring out all the Halloween fun! From haunted house decorations to costumes, there’s no shortage of creativity this season. But once the celebrations are over, storing your Halloween items properly ensures they’ll be in top shape for years to come. Here are some helpful storage tips from Bay Street Storage in Post Falls, ID, to keep your Halloween decorations and costumes safe until the next spooky season rolls around.

1. Choose Sturdy, Clear Plastic Bins

  • Why? Plastic bins offer greater protection against dust, pests, and moisture than cardboard boxes.
  • How to Store: For delicate items like glass pumpkins or small figurines, wrap each one in bubble wrap or packing paper before placing them in the bin. Clear bins allow you to see what’s inside without opening everything.
  • Bonus Tip: Stackable bins are ideal for maximizing space, so choose containers that fit together securely. Avoid overloading each bin to prevent damage to fragile items.

2. Label Boxes for Easy Access

  • Why? Labels make it simple to identify what’s inside each container when you’re ready to decorate again next Halloween.
  • How to Label: Use labels to categorize by type, such as “Indoor Décor,” “Outdoor Decorations,” or “Costumes & Accessories.” This way, you can quickly find exactly what you need.
  • Bonus Tip: For smaller decorations, list specific items on the labels to avoid having to sift through multiple boxes. This makes finding those finishing touches much easier!

3. Use Breathable Garment Bags for Costumes

  • Why? Costumes are often made from materials that need airflow to stay fresh. Airtight containers can trap moisture, leading to mildew and musty odors.
  • How to Store: Hang costumes in breathable garment bags. If folding is necessary, use acid-free tissue paper to prevent creases from becoming permanent.
  • Bonus Tip: Store masks and costume accessories in labeled bags alongside each costume to keep all pieces together and ready to go.

4. Organize Small Items with Compartments

  • Why? Small items, like plastic spiders, candles, and mini skeletons, can get lost or damaged if left loose in a bin.
  • How to Store: Use divided organizers or small compartmentalized containers to keep these items separate. This prevents them from moving around and breaking.
  • Bonus Tip: For string lights, wrap them around a piece of cardboard or a light reel to prevent tangling and save time when you’re ready to decorate again.

5. Cover Outdoor Decorations for Extra Protection

  • Why? Outdoor decorations are subject to weather and can experience wear over time. Proper storage helps protect them from damage.
  • How to Store: Clean and dry your outdoor decorations before storing them to remove any dirt and moisture. Cover larger items in weather-resistant tarps, especially if they’ll be stored in a garage or shed.
  • Bonus Tip: Add silica gel packs or other moisture absorbers to help prevent mold or mildew growth in enclosed storage areas.

6. Save Space with Vacuum-Sealed Bags for Inflatables

  • Why? Large inflatable decorations can take up a lot of space. Vacuum-sealed bags allow you to compress these items, making them more manageable.
  • How to Store: Fold inflatables carefully to avoid damaging internal components, then place them in a vacuum-sealed bag and remove the air according to the instructions.
  • Bonus Tip: Add a photo of each inflatable to the outside of the bag so you know which is which when it’s time to pull them out again.

7. Store in a Cool, Dry Area

  • Why? Storing decorations in a dry environment helps prevent damage from moisture or temperature changes.
  • How to Store: If you don’t have climate control at home, consider using a storage unit, like those at Bay Street Storage, to keep your items safe from outdoor conditions. Elevate boxes on shelves or pallets to avoid potential floor-level moisture.
  • Bonus Tip: Keep storage areas organized by grouping similar items together, making it easier to find exactly what you need when next October arrives.

8. Inspect and Clean Items Before Storing

  • Why? Cleaning your decorations before storage helps them last longer and ensures they’ll be ready for next Halloween.
  • How to Store: Wipe down items, dust off costumes, and discard anything that’s too worn out. This not only keeps your storage area tidy but also makes setup easier next year.
  • Bonus Tip: For electronic decorations, test that everything is working and remove batteries if needed to prevent corrosion.

With these Halloween storage tips from Bay Street Storage, you can keep your Halloween decorations and costumes organized and protected, making next year’s decorating a breeze. Contact us to learn more about available units and make your seasonal storage simple and convenient!

Happy haunting, and happy storing!