Putting away holiday decorations can be a difficult and overwhelming task at the end of every season. It can be especially daunting when it comes to icicle lights, as they seem to tangle too easily or require excessive amounts of time for storage.
But with some organization and preparation, you’ll be able to tackle this chore with ease. In this blog post, we’ll provide you with the best tips and tricks on how to put away icicle lights quickly and safely so that next year you’re ready to enjoy them again!
It’s that magical time of year again – the holidays are upon us! For many, this means adorning your house with beautiful strings of lights. Icicle lights in particular have a festive look that can take even the most boring façade and turn it into something truly magical.
But after all the cheer has come to an end, how do you store these fragile strands away for use another year? Here, we’ll provide you with some helpful tips to make sure your icicle lights remain bright and ready to dazzle next holiday season.
Why May You Want to Put Away Icicle Lights?
1. To Avoid Tripping Hazards
One of the primary reasons to put away icicle lights is to avoid tripping hazards. Icicle lights hang from the eaves of a home or around other areas where people walk, which can present a risk for someone who is not paying attention. It’s best to store your icicle lights when they are not in use in order to prevent any accidents or injuries caused by a trip or fall.
2. To Protect Them from the Elements
Icicle lights are designed to be used outdoors, but they can become damaged if left in the elements for too long. Storing your icicle lights after use helps keep them safe from rain or snow which could make them less effective or cause damage to the wiring and bulbs.
3. To Conserve Energy
By putting away icicle lights after use, you can save energy. Leaving them out year round or for extended periods of time will cause the lights to stay illuminated even when they are not needed, which can become a drain on electricity. Storing your icicle lights in a dry place will help preserve their life and minimize energy usage.
How to Put Away Icicle Lights in 5 Easy Steps
Now that you know why you may want to put away icicle lights, let’s take a look at how to do it.
Step 1: Turn off the Lights
Before putting away your icicle lights, make sure they are turned off so that you don’t risk any electrical issues when storing them. If you have an outdoor timer or motion sensor connected to your lighting system, make sure to switch that off as well.
Step 2: Unplug the Lights
Unplug the lights carefully and set them aside. It is best to slowly pull the cord from the outlet instead of yanking it out, as this can cause damage to both your lighting system and the outlet.
Step 3: Check for Damage
Once you have unplugged your icicle lights, inspect them closely to ensure they are still in good working condition. Look for frayed wires or exposed metal and replace any bulbs that may have burned out over the course of the season.
Step 4: Wrap and Store
Wrap your icicle lights carefully around a sturdy spool or tube before placing them into storage. This will keep them from becoming tangled and make them easier to set up the following year.
Step 5: Label and Store
Label your icicle lights before putting them away in a cool, dry place. This will remind you which lights are yours and also what season they were used for so that you can properly plan for their use the following year.
By following these easy steps, you can safely store your icicle lights and have them looking great for the following season. Be sure to inspect your lights regularly to ensure they are still in good condition and replace any damaged or burned-out bulbs as needed. With a little extra care, you can be sure that you’ll have bright, beautiful holiday icicle lights year after year!
Some Additional Tips to Put Away Icicle Lights
1. Do Not Over-Stuff the Storage Box
Always leave a few inches of space between icicle lights and the edge of the storage box as tightly packing may damage them. Also, you have to make sure that the box lid is closed tightly to avoid moisture and dirt getting into the lights.
2. Disconnect Electrical Source
Before putting away the icicle light set, make sure to turn off and unplug it from the power source. This will help protect you against electric shock or fire hazards. This is very important for the safety of your home.
3. Label Your Lights
Label the storage container with a permanent marker once you finish bundling up the icicle lights. This will help you identify them quickly and easily when you are ready to put them up again next year.
4. Store in Cool Place
The best place to store your icicle lights is somewhere cool, dry and away from direct sunlight. This will help them last longer and stay in good condition. Make sure to check the storage area a few times throughout the year for signs of damage or moisture.
5. Clean Lights Before Storing
Before you store your icicle lights away, make sure to clean and inspect them first. Remove any dirt or grime accumulated during the season and check for any signs of wear or tear. Replace any bulbs that are broken or not working properly.
Following these tips will help ensure that your icicle lights remain in good condition until the next holiday season. With proper care, you can enjoy your icicle lights for many years to come!
Frequently Asked Questions
What Precautions Should I Take When Putting Away Icicle Lights?
When putting away icicle lights, it is important to take the proper safety precautions. Be sure to ensure that all of the lights are unplugged and disconnected from power sources before handling them. Additionally, always use two hands when working with strings of lights to avoid any potential shock hazard.
Additionally, store the cords and lights in a cool, dry place to prevent any potential damage or fire hazard. Lastly, when wrapping the cords around an object for storage, be sure that they are not tangled or crossed over one another as this can cause damage and potentially pose a shock hazard.
Can I Leave Icicle Lights Out Year Round?
It is not recommended to leave icicle lights out year-round. Storing the lights away in a cool, dry place when not in use will help preserve them and prolong their life. Additionally, depending on the climate in which you live it could put your lights at risk of rain or snow damage if left out all year long. Not to mention exposure to other elements that could damage the cords or cause a potential shock hazard.
What is the Best Way to Store Icicle Lights?
The best way to store icicle lights is in a cool, dry place away from any direct sunlight or moisture. Additionally, be sure that they are wound around an object such as a spool or cardboard tube for easy storage and to help prevent tangles.
Additionally, if the cords or bulbs are damaged, dispose of them immediately as they could cause a shock hazard if used. Lastly, label the outside of the storage container with the type of lights that are stored inside to make for easy access when needed.
What is the Most Common Cause of Icicle Light Malfunction?
The most common cause of icicle light malfunction is usually due to broken bulbs or worn out cords. Carefully inspect the lights before use and be sure to replace any bulbs that appear to be damaged or worn out.
Additionally, check for any exposed wiring as this could cause a shock hazard if used with power sources. Lastly, always unplug and disconnect the lights from power sources when not in use to prevent potential damage or fire hazards.
What Materials Are Icicle Lights Made Of?
Icicle lights are typically made of a combination of plastic and metal. The bulbs are typically glass or plastic, while the cords are usually coated in either vinyl or rubber. Additionally, the power source is usually connected to a plug that contains prongs that help to provide power to the light string.
Conclusion
Taking down your icicle lights may seem like a daunting task, but it can be made simpler and more efficient by following the steps provided. With proper storage of the lights in boxes and tubs, you can make sure these decorations will be in great condition when you bring them out for next Christmas season.
Now you know how to put away icicle lights! Be sure to carefully unwind any tangled strings, check each bulb for any cracks or broken parts, and store safely away from water sources. The more effort you put into taking down your lights correctly, the less time you will have to put into setting them up again next year!
