Storage container should be made of plastic rather than cardboard. Reason being, the acid contained in the cardboard can be detrimental to the ornaments. For ornaments that come in special keepsake boxes made of cardboard, simply wrap the ornament in acid free paper before storing. Bounty Microwave paper towels is an inexpensive acid free paper but tiny fibers may tend to dislodge glittering from ornaments. Acid free tissue paper can be purchased at craft stores. Christopher Radko advises storing ornaments in plastic or heavy cardboard boxes with sturdy tops, just protect the ornaments by wrapping in acid free paper or cotton batting.

If your container does not have dividers, place several layers of paper between each layer of ornaments. Remember that even lightweight ornaments can become heavy if stacked too deeply.

Store ornaments in a controlled temperature enviroment. Not in attics or basements! A guestroom closet would work well because you will want to store them so they are easily accessible for adding to your collection throughout the year.

Clean ornaments by using a soft brush such as a makeup brush or feather duster to remove dust. Avoid using anything moist such as water, glass cleaner or detergents as some paints are water based. Remove hangers before placing in storage to prevent scratches or damage.

When hanging ornaments on your tree, choose sturdy branches of live trees for heavier ornaments and avoid placing on tips of branches. Of course, breakable ornaments will need to be placed out of the reach of small children or pets.

If you have additional information, suggestions or tips on care of collectible ornaments, please leave your comments in the guestbook and I will be happy to add to this page.