Safe Storage Tips for Glass Ornaments During Holidays and Moves
Your glass ornaments carry more than beauty—they hold memories. Whether it’s the glimmering decorations that light up your holidays or delicate glass figurines you collect over the years, keeping them safe during storage or a move can feel stressful.
At HONOR LIVING Glass, we understand that one careless box or quick wrap can lead to heartbreak. That’s why we’ve put together this practical guide filled with easy, proven ways to protect your glass treasures.
Why Proper Storage Matters More Than You Think
Glass ornaments are more than fragile—they’re emotional investments. Many of our customers have told us stories about losing irreplaceable holiday pieces simply because they were rushed into boxes with little padding or placed in humid spaces.
Proper storage does more than prevent cracks and scratches—it preserves the shine, color, and craftsmanship that make each piece special. And if you move often, the right packing method can mean the difference between arriving with joy or regret.
Step-by-Step Guide to Safe Ornament Storage
1. Clean Before You Pack
Before any ornament goes into storage, gently dust and clean it with a soft, lint-free cloth. Avoid strong cleaning sprays—most glass ornaments have delicate coatings or paints that can fade.
If fingerprints are visible, a mix of mild soap and warm water can do the trick. Let everything dry completely to prevent moisture spots or mold during storage.
2. Choose the Right Box
Avoid tossing your ornaments into random cardboard boxes. Instead, use:
- Hard-sided plastic containers for better protection and stackability.
- Individual compartments or egg-crate style dividers to prevent contact between pieces.
- Acid-free tissue paper or microfiber wrap rather than newspaper (which can leave ink stains).
💡 Pro Tip: For expensive or sentimental ornaments, store them in their original packaging whenever possible—it’s designed to fit perfectly.
3. Cushioning is Key
Line the bottom of each box with bubble wrap or thick foam sheets. Then individually wrap each ornament with soft tissue, microfiber, or air-cushion wrap.
If ornaments have delicate stems or hanging loops, reinforce those areas first—these are usually the weakest parts.
When stacking, ensure no item bears weight directly on another.
“Think of your ornaments like glass jewelry—each one deserves its own soft space.”
4. Label Everything Clearly
Mark each box with “Fragile – Glass Ornaments” and label which room or season it belongs to.
This not only helps during moves but also saves hours of frustration when unpacking for the holidays.
Use color-coded stickers or printed labels if you have multiple collections (e.g., Christmas, Wedding, Decorative Glassware).
5. Control the Environment
Temperature and humidity can silently damage glass ornaments over time. Store your boxes in:
- Cool, dry areas—avoid attics or damp basements.
- Temperature-stable closets or under-bed storage spaces.
- Silica gel packs inside boxes to absorb excess moisture.
Fluctuating heat and humidity can cause paint to peel or glass to cloud over time—especially for hand-painted ornaments.
6. Safe Storage During Moving
If you’re relocating, pack glass ornaments as if they were fine art.
- Place each wrapped ornament in a smaller interior box before putting it inside a large moving box (double-boxing method).
- Fill all empty spaces with soft padding to prevent shifting.
- Use “This Side Up” and “Fragile” stickers on all sides of the box.
During transport, keep boxes upright and secure them so they don’t slide or get crushed under heavier items.
7. Unpacking with Care
When the holidays come back around, open boxes slowly. Allow them to sit at room temperature for a few hours before unwrapping—especially if they’ve been stored in cold areas.
Remove each ornament one by one and check for any signs of damage or moisture before hanging.
Remember, unboxing should feel joyful, not stressful.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ❌ Wrapping ornaments in newspaper or paper towels.
- ❌ Leaving gaps or air pockets inside boxes.
- ❌ Storing in high-humidity or uninsulated areas.
- ❌ Overpacking boxes until they bulge.
- ❌ Forgetting to label fragile contents clearly.
Avoiding these small missteps can save years of keepsakes from accidental breakage.
A Final Thought — Store with Heart
At HONOR LIVING Glass, we believe that every glass piece tells a story—of family gatherings, celebrations, and quiet moments of joy. Proper storage isn’t just about protection; it’s about preserving those memories for the next season and the next generation.
Take a few extra minutes to pack them right this year, and you’ll thank yourself for decades to come.
