10 Unique Holiday Storage Ideas

Put your old shoeboxes to good use and keep your Christmas lights untangled by wrapping the lights around trimmed lids and then storing them inside the box. You can put several strands together.
See how it was done at Real Simple

For longer or outdoor strands of holiday lights, consider using a hose reel from the hardware store to keep your lights tangle-free.
Learn more at Live Simply By Annie

There's nothing worse than buying new ornaments only to have them get scratched up while sitting in storage all year. To safely store ornaments without paying a bundle, hot glue cups to cardboard and insert into clear plastic bins. These even stack!
Find out how at Martha Stewart

Another option for keeping ornaments safe: Store them in used egg cartons that can be easily stacked into storage bins.
See how it's done at Craft Gossip

I have several of these cheap-y garment bags — and now I know what to do with them! Simply zip up wrapping paper in a garment bag and then hang it in the closet for out-of-the-way storage.
See how it was done at Practically Martha

Turn a regular clothing hamper into a holiday gift wrap center. Line with pockets for even more storage and to keep all of your ribbon, tape, and scissors in one place. Tuck in the closet while not in use.
Learn more at Better Homes & Gardens

Use plastic office supply bins to add wall storage to your desk area. This is a great way to keep your gift tags, ribbon, tape, and other wrapping necessities organized and in one spot.
Find out how at Better Homes & Gardens

If you are feeling a bit more ambitious, installing an overhead storage system in your garage keeps decorations out of the way while keeping closet space free for things you need access to on a daily basis!
Find the how-to at Family Handyman

Rather than simply shoving old cards into a box or throwing them away, create holiday card albums that you can display on the coffee table each year.
Find the tutorial at Close 2 My Art

Purchase old suitcases from the thrift store and paint or decoupage them with fun holiday themes. Then wrap up your ornaments and other decorations and store them inside! The hard case will protect your wares — and bonus: It doubles as a holiday decoration itself!
Learn how at Instructables