How to Decorate Your Christmas Tree Like a Pro

Wirecutter’s guide to decorating a Christmas tree walks through practical, tested tips to make holiday setup and teardown easier and more festive. Start with a stable stand like the [[Krinner Tree Genie XXL]] to make one-person installation and watering simpler; fluff artificial trees for a natural shape; and plan on about 100 lights per foot, using durable strands such as the [[Pro Christmas T5 LED Christmas Lights]] for value. String lights vertically for depth or choose net or pre-lit options like the [[National Tree Company 7.5-foot Feel Real Downswept Douglas Fir]]. Automate lighting with a smart plug such as the [[TP-Link Kasa Smart Wi‑Fi Plug Slim]]. For storage and teardown, keep ornament hooks on, wind lights on a winder, and wrap live trees in a fitted sheet to contain needles.

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