how to clean an artificial Christmas tree.

As we all dig out the decorations, nothing says festive spirit like unboxing a dusty tree and wondering how it got so grubby just sitting in the loft.

But here’s the good news: cleaning your artificial Christmas tree is quick and easy (if you do it right) and it also means it’ll do its job for years to come. Here’s how:

a little pre-dec TLC.

Unbox, unfurl, and prep your tree before you allow a single bauble to go on!

• Start from the top and work your way down, gently wiping branches with a dry cloth or duster.
• Got an unlit tree? A vacuum with a brush attachment works wonders (test on a low suction setting first).
• Avoid sprays, soaps, or vinegar as they can damage any artificial coatings and materials.

Once your tree is dusted down, set the branches out evenly so your tree looks full and fabulous.

during display.

Keep your tree looking fresh and dust-free throughout December:

• Lightly dust once a week (a soft duster or cloth will do).
• Avoid over-handling especially if you’ve got a frosted or flocked tree, as the delicate finish can shed quite easily.
• Position your tree away from direct heat sources to avoid it warping and keep it out of direct sunlight to prevent any colour fading.

post Christmas.

When the festivities ease up, give your tree a proper clean (before tucking it away for another year):

• Unplug any lights and remove all decorations.
• Dust each section with a dry cloth or use a handheld vacuum for a quick once-over.
• Compress branches gently as you pack (but be sure not to force them).
• Store in a cool, dry place (storage bags can keep out moisture and protect against musty odours).

Next December, you’ll thank yourself.

white or frosted trees?

These type of trees can look magical, but they do need extra love:

• Dust shows up faster on white trees, so wipe gently with a clean dry cloth before storage. You can then wrap it up in white paper or a light coloured cotton sheet to keep it looking its best.
• Frosted trees need minimal dusting! This is to protect the delicate flocking. Instead, shake the branches gently outside to remove any loose debris and then store carefully.

fake or fir?

It’s the yearly festive debate and we love a good sustainability showdown. Here’s the truth:

• A real Christmas tree has charm, scent, and zero assembly time but the carbon footprint depends on how it’s grown, transported, and disposed of.
• According to the Carbon Trust, a 2m real tree can have a footprint of around 16kg CO₂e if it ends up in landfill.
• Composting or replanting the tree cuts that to under 4kg CO₂e.
• An artificial PVC tree has an initial footprint of up to 40kg CO₂e…. BUT:
• Reusing it for 10 years or more creates a lower impact than buying a new real one each December for the same amount of time.
• Or how about renting a real tree? Many UK farms now let you “borrow” a living potted tree for the holidays, then return it to be replanted. Genius.