How to Store Your Halloween Decorations for Next Year
ulok-editor • September 30, 2025
Halloween is one of the most fun holidays to decorate for. From spooky skeletons and glowing jack-o’-lanterns to inflatables that wow the neighborhood, Halloween is every child’s (and many adults’) dream. But once the trick-or-treaters have gone home and the candy bowls are empty, where do you put all your decorations until next year?
Whether your setup is indoors or outdoors, taking the time to properly clean and store your Halloween decorations will help them last longer and save you money in the long run. At Downtown U-Lok Storage, we know a little organization and renting a self storage unit go a long way, so here are our best tips for packing up your spooky décor.
-
Gather Cleaning & Packing Supplies
A successful storage plan starts with the right tools. Before you begin, grab these essentials:
Cleaning supplies
- Microfiber cloths for dusting delicate pieces
- Mild soap or detergent for washable items
- Disinfecting wipes for candy bowls and serving trays
- Gentle stain remover for costumes and fabrics
- Drying cloths or paper towels to remove moisture
Packing materials
- Bubble wrap or tissue paper for fragile décor
- Sturdy plastic bins with lids to block out dust
- Zip ties, twist ties or rubber bands for cords
- Vacuum-seal bags for bulky costumes
- Small pouches or bags for screws, anchors, and stakes
- Garment bags for costumes
- Labels and markers to keep everything organized
-
Clean Before You Store
Before boxing things up, make sure they’re clean and dry.
- Indoor décor: Dust or lightly wipe down figurines, frames, or wall hangings. For sticky adhesives like spider webs, peel carefully (a hairdryer on low heat can help). Wash food-contact items like candy bowls with warm, soapy water and let them dry fully.
- Outdoor décor: Wipe down inflatables, plastic tombstones, or lanterns to remove dirt and moisture. Coil cords neatly and inspect string lights for any damage. Let everything dry before storing to prevent mildew.
- Costumes & fabrics: Follow the care labels — some pieces can be machine washed, while others may need dry cleaning. Repair small tears now, so you’re not scrambling next year.
-
Pack with Care
Packing smart means your items will come out next year in perfect condition.
- Fragile items: Wrap each item individually and cushion them inside bins. Avoid empty space that allows movement.
- Costumes & fabrics: Use garment or vacuum-seal bags to save space. Store in plastic containers to protect from pests and dust.
- Lights & electronics: Wrap string lights neatly to avoid tangles and remove batteries to prevent corrosion.
- Large props: Fold and roll inflatables carefully and keep stakes or small hardware in labeled bags.
-
Store in the Right Place
Where you store your decorations is just as important as how you pack them.
- At home: Closets, basements, and garages work — but avoid attics or damp areas, as extreme temperatures and humidity can damage fabrics and electronics.
- In a self-storage unit : If your home is short on space (or your Halloween collection keeps growing!), renting a self-storage unit is your best bet. At Downtown U-Lok Storage, you’ll get peace of mind knowing your decorations are protected from dust, pests, and fluctuating weather. If you have any questions about self storage, please contact us and our team is more than happy to answer your questions!
Storing seasonal décor doesn’t have to be stressful. With a little planning and the right storage space, you’ll keep your decorations in top shape and ready to impress year after year.If you need extra room for your growing collection of Halloween props or holiday décor of any kind, Downtown U-Lok Storage has the secure, convenient self storage solution for you. Contact us for more information!
Self storage is a flexible solution for moving, downsizing, renovating, or creating extra space at home. But people often have the same practical questions before renting a storage unit . Below are answers to some of the most common ones. Can you sleep in self storage? No. You cannot legally or safely sleep in a self storage unit . Storage facilities are not designed for living. Self storage units typically lack ventilation, plumbing, and emergency exits required for occupancy. Our rental agreement explicitly prohibits living or sleeping in storage units. Please do not sleep in a storage unit for your own personal well-being. What should you not leave in a storage unit? There are several categories of items that should never go into storage: Perishable food (it attracts pests) Live animals or plants Flammable or explosive materials (gasoline, propane, fireworks) Illegal items Open or unsecured liquids that can leak Hazardous chemicals not approved by the facility Even if something seems harmless, if it can spoil, leak, or attract pests, it’s best to keep it out of storage. Is it safe to put a bed in a storage unit? Yes, storing a bed is generally safe, but preparation matters. To protect it properly: Disassemble the frame if possible Wrap the mattress in a breathable mattress cover (not plastic long-term) Store off the ground using pallets or a platform Avoid placing heavy items on top This helps prevent moisture buildup, dust, and warping over time. Is it safe to leave clothes in a storage unit? Absolutely Clothes can be safely stored if they are packed correctly. Best practices include: Using sealed plastic bins or wardrobe boxes Washing and fully drying clothes beforehand Adding moisture absorbers (like silica gel or desiccants) Avoiding vacuum sealing delicate fabrics for long periods What can you fit in a 5x5 storage unit? A 5x5 unit (about 25 square feet) is roughly the size of a small closet. It’s ideal for: Several boxes Seasonal clothing Small furniture pieces (chairs, nightstands) Sports equipment A mattress set (twin or full, depending on layout) It’s typically used for light storage, dorm items, or decluttering a single room. If you have any questions about storage unit sizes, please use our storage size guide or get in touch and one of our team members will be happy to help. How much does it cost to put everything in storage? The cost of storing “everything” depends on how much space you need. For a full household, most people end up needing medium to large units or even multiple units. Typical cost factors include: Storage unit size Temperature control Supply and demand If you have any questions about self storage, please contact us and we’ll be happy to answer any questions you have. Self storage is a practical and flexible solution, but what you store and how you store it makes a big difference. Avoid prohibited items, prepare belongings properly, and choose the right unit size to keep your items safe and accessible. If you have further questions, please get in touch and the Downtown U-Lok Storage team will be thrilled to help you.
Summer is a time for adventure, travel, and making memories. Whether you’re flying abroad, going on a road trip, or visiting family for the season, one challenge often comes up: what to do with your belongings while you’re away. For many people, especially those living in apartments, dorms, or smaller homes, leaving items unattended can be stressful. This is where renting a self storage unit comes in. Keep Your Home Clutter-Free and Safe One of the key benefits of self storage is that it keeps your home organized while you’re away. Packing your apartment with luggage, summer gear, or seasonal items can create unnecessary clutter, making your return less relaxing. By storing items in a storage facility, you can leave your home as it is, ensuring it stays tidy and ready for your return. Additionally, self storage provides peace of mind by keeping your belongings safe. Jewelry, sentimental items, personal documents, and other valuable items are protected in a controlled environment, reducing the risk of damage, theft, or exposure to weather conditions. Free Up Space for Your Travel Plans For those living in smaller apartments, dorms, or shared housing, space can be limited. Renting a storage unit allows you to temporarily move bulky items such as furniture, sports equipment, or seasonal clothing out of the way. This not only frees up your living space but also makes packing and preparing for travel much easier. You can travel light without worrying about what to do with the rest of your belongings. Flexible and Convenient Options Self storage is often flexible, offering short-term rentals that align perfectly with summer travel plans. Whether you need storage for a few weeks or several months, you can choose a unit size that fits your needs. Ideal for Students and Seasonal Residents Students and seasonal residents, in particular, benefit from self storage during the summer months. If you’re moving out of student housing or a temporary apartment, storage offers a perfect place for your belongings until the next lease or school year begins. It eliminates the need to move everything back home or pay for expensive shipping. Protect Your Valuables While You Travel Traveling often comes with the concern of leaving personal belongings unattended. A storage unit ensures your items are protected in a monitored facility, allowing you to enjoy your summer adventures. Temperature-controlled units also protect sensitive items such as electronics, artwork, or important documents from damage caused by heat or humidity. If you have any questions about renting self storage during your summer vacation, please reach out and we will be more than happy to help.
As the school year comes to an end, many students face the same challenge; what to do with their belongings […]
Spring has arrived in Vancouver, making it the perfect time to refresh and clean up your living space. For those […]
Moving to downtown Vancouver is exciting. You’ll be located in a vibrant neighbourhood filled with world-class dining, waterfront views, cultural […]
With the FIFA World Cup 2026 in Vancouver just a few months away, many homeowners are preparing to list their […]
With the FIFA World Cup 2026 in Vancouver just a few months away, many homeowners are preparing to list their […]
When you store your belongings at Downtown U-Lok Storage, you’re choosing a secure and convenient self-storage facility in Vancouver. While […]
Start the New Year clutter-free with secure, flexible self-storage from Downtown U-Lok for moving, renovations, and more.
The holidays leave many of us drowning in bins of decorations but with reliable tips, you can declutter your space […]
