The best in Christmas tree storage
December 31, 2015
The perfect Christmas tree makes the whole house feel different. The festive evergreen, artificial or fresh, transforms your home into a cozy, holiday wonderland. If you do use an artificial tree, it is especially important to consider your Christmas tree storage options. To re-instill that magical feeling in your family and yourself, you need to make sure the tree is protected and preserved all year round. The right storage makes a huge difference, so choose wisely.
Here are some of our favorite products:
- Rolling Christmas Tree Storage Bag: This large duffel on wheels makes it super simple to put up the tree each year. With over 17 cubic feet of storage capacity made to accommodate any disassembled artificial tree, this bag is crafted from heavy duty polyester with PVC for reinforcement. Three ball bearing wheels make it easy to lean the entire bag upright and wheel it in and out of storage. Side handles make transportation a cinch, too.
- Expandable Rolling Christmas Tree Storage Bag: Similar to the first, this tree keeper is a duffel bag, but it expands from 40 to 59 inches. This bag accommodates trees that are up to 9 ft tall. This bag is on wheels, has a protective plastic bottom and is safe from mold, mildew as well as dust.
- Christmas Tree Storage Bag with Stand: Take all the time and work out of Christmas tree storage with this upright option. Keep the tree intact — lights, bulbs and all. Simply attach this cover to the included rolling stand and cover it all at once. This way you can store the tree exactly how you like it. This not only cuts down on the work every year, but it eliminates the need to pack away decorations in storage totes. One and done!
- Rolling Artificial Christmas Tree Stand: If you already have a bag or bin you love, you can still add to your arsenal and make storage easier. This rolling tree stand allows you to keep your tree decorated or at least in one piece when you store it. You can easily move the tree around the house or get into storage without lifting.
- GreensKeeper Tree Storage Bag – Large: Thinking big? This over-sized bag has padded handles, wheels and a reinforced inside to keep your artificial tree protected from the elements. Inside straps hold the tree securely in place. This bag even accommodates tress up to 10 or 12 in height!
Protect your belongings with a plastic utility tote
December 23, 2015
Winter means storage; whether it’s holiday decorations, summer patio furniture, seasonal clothing or more. Some jobs call for a professional and in the plastic bin world, the utility tote is that equivalent.
When you have heavy duty storage needs you need heavy duty bins. This utility tote from Iris is available in either 3 or 17 gallon sizes. Made from durable polypropylene plastic, this bin features a locking lid, reinforced corners and a grid bottom. This piece can survive the elements, indoors or out. Stack in the garage, shed, basement — the reinforced designed will keep your belongings safe.
As an added bonus, all of Iris’ products are made in the U.S.A.
Features:
- Lid includes snap-down buckles that lock down to keep your items safe.
- Polypropylene construction ensures long-lasting storage use.
- Reinforced grid bottom provides structural integrity.
- Opaque design lets you hid away clutter.
- Available in 3 or 17.5 gallon sizes.
- Inset handles make moving this box a breeze.
- Sleek black, gray and red colors.
- Stackable design accommodates any storage system.
- Made in the U.S.A.
Celebrate New Year’s Eve with class — and good food
December 23, 2015
We’re just starting to reach the calm after the storm of Christmas, and here comes New Year’s Eve. If you hosting this event, it can be easy to give in and let it get out of control. But this celebration can be simple and elegant. Here are some tips to ring in your new year with less work.
- Serve small plates: Since most of your party-goers won’t be arriving until later in the evening, you don’t need to plan a large meal. Make prep and clean up easier on yourself by serving small plates or horderves. Divided serving dishes make it super simple to present small offerings like olives, nuts, cheese and more.
- Utilize serving trays: While we’re on the subject, serving trays will be your best friend. With them, you won’t clutter up your surfaces with your normal plates. And some designs, like this one with room for ice, are designed to keep your food cold all night — so food is fresh for all parry-goers, no matter what time they show up. Tiered serving trays are also a great investment; these decorative pieces are also super convenient because they allow you to present more options without taking up previous space.
- Use a serving caddy: Keep plates, napkins, flatware and serving pieces all in one area. These awesome caddies make it even easier for guests to help themselves to food. Opt for the disposable plates and flatware, too.
2.) Serving Caddy