The gifts are opened, the cookies are eaten, and the eggnog is long gone. All those tchotchkes that filled you with glee last fall are now just a reminder of how much work it will be to put them all away. We wouldn't blame you if you crammed everything into the nearest plastic bin and called it a day.

Similar to faux trees, artificial wreaths can be placed in garbage bags or plastic wrap for further protection prior to hanging them in storage.

For shorter or smaller sets, try two inexpensive DIY methods: One requires a rectangular piece of cardboard and the other a thick hanger. Starting at one end of the strand, begin wrapping the lights around either the cardboard or the hanger until it's fully coiled. The cardboard can fit upright in a storage bin and the hanger can sit on a rod in the closet or on a garment rack. The other method to prevent tangles is to wind light strands into long ovals, then cinch with cable ties and hang.

Use quilted boxes to store holiday plates alongside salad and soup bowls. Use boxes with dividers for wine glasses and mugs. Large serving platters should be carefully wrapped and placed on a shelf or in a bin to stay dust-free and prevent damage.

If you own Christmas cookie cutters, cookbooks, candles, or napkins, keep these together in a storage tote with a label so you can find them quickly when next year's first holiday party sneaks up.