# Taking down holiday lights: a simple plan for January

> How to get your lights down safely and stored so next year's install is quick. Or hand the whole job over.

Source: https://www.bluecollarposts.com/blog/taking-down-holiday-lights-january · Published 2026-11-12 · By Blue Collar Posts

**Quick answer:** Take holiday lights down on a dry, calm day in January, one section at a time, labelling each strand and storing it wrapped, not balled up. Or book a takedown and storage service.

Putting lights up is fun. Taking them down in the cold of January is a different story. A little planning makes it quicker and saves next year's lights.

## When should I take down holiday lights?

Wet roofs and gutters are slippery, and wind makes ladder work risky. Wait for a dry day, and never work on an icy roof.

## Work in sections

1. Unplug everything and remove timers first.
2. Take one section at a time: roofline, then bushes, then trees.
3. **Label each strand** as you remove it ("front gutter left", "maple tree") so next year's install is fast.

## How should I store holiday lights?

- Wrap strands around a piece of cardboard or a reel instead of balling them up.
- Keep bulbs dry and store them in a box with a lid.
- Check for broken bulbs or damaged wires before storing, and note what needs replacing.

## Can someone take my lights down for me?

Many holiday lighting companies offer **takedown and storage**. They remove everything, pack it properly and bring it back for next year's install. It's a good option if you'd rather not spend a cold afternoon on a ladder.

[Find light takedown services near you](https://www.bluecollarposts.com/pros?service=lights_takedown).

---
Find local pros for Light takedown and storage, Holiday light installation: https://www.bluecollarposts.com/pros?service=lights_takedown