Keep inflatable decorations looking joyful all season
With a few setup precautions and some care, inflatables can be enjoyed for Christmas seasons to come.
It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas, with inflatable holiday decorations adorning yards across neighborhoods. With proper setup and care, these inflatables can last for many seasons.
The rise in popularity of inflatables is no surprise, according to ChristmasCentral.com.
“One of the biggest attractions of Christmas inflatables is that they can be set up in minutes,” the site says.
They’re also compact when deflated, making them easy to store, and their high visibility provides a festive impact at a budget-friendly price.
These decorations, ranging from traditional Santas and snowmen to characters like the Grinch and Snoopy, appeal to a variety of tastes.
Inflatable decorations trace their roots to Gemmy Industries, creators of the animatronic singing bass that captivated audiences around 2000. Inspired by the giant inflatable gorillas used by car dealerships, Gemmy reimagined the concept for residential use.
To prevent inflatables from becoming airborne in high winds, ChristmasCentral.com advises choosing flat, sheltered locations away from sharp objects or branches. Adding extra tie-down stakes and weights such as sandbags or gravel bags can provide stability. Tether lines should distribute the wind’s force, and inflatables can be secured to sturdy nearby objects.
For those worried about theft, options include placing decorations in well-lit areas, using security cameras, or adding GPS trackers or alarms to deter tampering.
Inflatables are built to handle most weather conditions, but extreme ice buildup and high winds can cause damage. In adverse weather it’s best to deflate and store decorations temporarily. Tears can often be fixed with patch kits while heavy snow should be removed to avoid collapses.
Proper storage ensures inflatables remain in good condition. TheOrganizationHouse.com recommends cleaning them with a damp towel, deflating them and rolling them up with electrical cords secured. Keeping pieces organized in Ziploc bags and storing them in original packaging or a water-resistant bin can protect them until next season.
Love driving around town and enjoying the lights and decorations? Be sure to check out Wooster's "Let it Glow" community decorating competition. A map of participating homes will be found online at https://www.woosterchamber.com/let-it-glow. Last year over 12,900 people viewed the online map and over 600 votes were cast. The competition has also opened up to businesses this year.
Whatever holidays one celebrates, enjoy the warm glow of a community filled with light this season.