Best Christmas Light Organizer Ever!

Ok, Christmas is over and it's time to put away the decorations. It's tempting to shove them in a box like last year, but you suddenly remember the pain of putting them on the tree this year... Well, here's a way to make a bit better for next year.

Step 1: The Secret

Find a good heavy duty hanger, preferably one with the little extra hook under the main hook

Step 2: Hook the End

Depending on how you wrap your tree with lights, you start with the end of the string that you want on the tree last. I always start wrapping my tree at the bottom near where the lights would plug into the outlet... It also gives me a chance to check the lights (by plugging them in), as well as make sure I have enough length to reach the outlet. So, I want to start putting my lights away with the female socket end.

Step 3: Start the Wrap

With the end fixed to the little hook, let the string hang straight down. Loop the string "loosely" under and then up and over one side.

Step 4: Finish the Wrap

Now perform the same action but on the other side.

Step 5: Continue Wrapping

Repeat the process, alternating sides, until you reach the end of the string. Finish by tucking the remaining plug into the little hook.

Step 6: Storage

You could place these in a box, or hanging them in a closet, but I found a water pipe in the basement ceiling that makes a perfect spot for mine.