How to Clean an Artificial Christmas Tree and Address a Musty Smell

Unplug and inspect first

Disconnect a pre-lit tree from power before handling or cleaning it. Check cords, plugs, sockets and connections from a safe position. The Consumer Product Safety Commission recommends checking decorative light sets for cracked sockets, frayed or bare wires and loose connections; do not use a damaged set.

If wiring is damaged or the tree was wet, do not plug it in to test it. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions or obtain qualified advice about replacement. Keep children and pets away from loose components and place the tree on a stable surface.

Check the tree’s materials

Artificial branches may be plastic, fabric, flocked material or another finish, and care instructions vary. Flocking, glitter, glued decorations and built-in lights can be damaged by water, brushes or cleaning products. Read the label or manual and test a permitted method in a hidden area.

If the manufacturer does not allow wet cleaning, do not soak the tree or spray it with a household cleaner. A vintage, fragile or electrically integrated tree may need a more conservative approach. Never mix cleaning chemicals or use a product not intended for the material.

Remove loose dust gently

For a tree that can be handled safely, use a soft dry cloth or a suitable soft brush as the manufacturer permits. Work in sections and support branches rather than pulling them. A vacuum may damage needles, decorations or wiring if suction is too strong, so use it only if the manufacturer allows the method.

Avoid creating a large dust cloud in a living area. People with allergies, asthma or other sensitivity may prefer to have someone else handle dusty items and should seek medical advice about individual concerns. Stop if material sheds heavily or wires move.

Cleaning a pre-lit tree

Keep the tree unplugged and keep liquid away from light sockets, plugs and wiring. Do not spray cleaner directly onto built-in lights or immerse branches unless the manufacturer explicitly permits the procedure. A damp cloth is not appropriate for every tree or electrical assembly.

If a detachable light set is damaged, follow the manufacturer’s replacement instructions rather than taping an exposed conductor. The Consumer Product Safety Commission also advises against using electric lights on a metallic tree. Use only lighting intended and rated for the actual setting.

A musty smell after storage

A musty odor can indicate that the tree, storage bag or surrounding area was damp, but odor alone does not identify mold. Check the storage container and accessible surfaces for moisture, visible contamination or damage. Do not simply add fragrance or pack the item away again while damp.

If contamination is extensive, the tree has electrical components that cannot be safely cleaned, or the material cannot be dried, replacement may be the practical choice. EPA emphasizes fixing the moisture problem and assessing whether affected materials can be cleaned and dried. Consult a qualified professional for uncertain contamination.

If water or suspected mold is present

Do not plug in wet lighting or use a damaged electrical item. Keep the tree away from the outlet and ask the manufacturer or a qualified professional whether the components can be evaluated. Do not scrape or shake a heavily contaminated item indoors.

For a small area on a suitable non-electrical hard surface, follow the manufacturer’s and EPA’s applicable cleaning guidance. Do not assume that a cleaner safe for a plastic branch is safe for flocking, fabric or wiring. Extensive or inaccessible contamination may make disposal more appropriate.

Dry and store appropriately

Any cleaning method permitted by the manufacturer should be followed by complete drying before the tree is packed. Store it in a clean, dry container in a location protected from leaks and extreme moisture. Inspect the storage area and container before using them again.

Do not seal a damp tree in a bag or box, where moisture can remain trapped. Keep the cord arranged without sharp bends or crushing, and store ornaments separately when needed. A recurring musty smell warrants checking the storage area for a leak or humidity problem.

Before decorating again

Set the tree on a stable base away from heat sources. Check the lights and follow the manufacturer’s instructions and intended indoor or outdoor rating. CPSC advises turning off decorative lights when leaving the home or going to bed.

If a light set or plug is damaged, replace or repair it only as directed by the manufacturer and an appropriate qualified professional. A clean appearance does not make damaged wiring safe. Keep the manual and care instructions with the storage container for the next season.

New-material odor versus damp storage

A newly unpacked artificial tree may have a material or packaging odor; follow the maker’s ventilation and care instructions and do not add perfume or unapproved chemicals. A musty smell after damp storage calls for checking the tree and its container for moisture and visible contamination. Odor alone cannot establish the cause. These cleaning instructions are for artificial trees only; do not apply them to a live tree.

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