How To Keep Flocked Tree From Shedding

How to Keep Your Flocked Christmas Tree From Shedding

A flocked Christmas tree offers a beautiful, snowy look that's perfect for a winter wonderland theme. However, that charming flocked finish can also be a source of frustration if it starts shedding. No one wants a carpet of white flakes under their tree! This guide will walk you through how to minimize shedding and keep your flocked tree looking its best for the entire holiday season.

Understanding Flocking and Shedding

Flocked Christmas trees are treated with a fine flocking material, usually cotton or nylon fibers, that's sprayed onto the branches to create the frosted appearance. Shedding is a common occurrence, particularly with cheaper trees or those that haven't been manufactured to the highest quality standards. The amount of shedding depends on several factors, including the type of flocking material, the application process, and how the tree is handled.

Preventing Flocking Shedding: Before You Decorate

The best way to deal with shedding is to prevent it before it starts. These steps will dramatically reduce the amount of flocking that ends up on your floor:

1. Choose a High-Quality Tree

Invest in a well-made flocked Christmas tree. Look for trees from reputable brands known for their durability and quality flocking application. Read reviews before purchasing to gauge the experiences of other customers regarding shedding.

2. Careful Unboxing and Fluffing

When unpacking your tree, handle it gently. Avoid roughly shaking or pulling the branches. Gently fluff the branches outwards to shape the tree; this is less likely to dislodge the flocking than rough handling.

3. Proper Placement

Place your tree in a stable and secure location. Avoid placing it near heat sources, such as fireplaces or radiators, as this can dry out the flocking and increase shedding.

Minimizing Shedding During and After Decoration

Even with careful handling, some shedding is inevitable. These tips can help minimize it:

1. Gentle Ornament Placement

When decorating, avoid forcefully pushing ornaments into the branches. Gently place them in position.

2. Avoid Over-Decorating

Don't overload the tree with ornaments. This adds extra stress to the branches and can cause more flocking to come loose.

3. Regular "Fluffing"

Gently fluff the branches periodically throughout the holiday season. This helps to redistribute the flocking and catch any loose fibers.

4. Vacuum Regularly

Vacuum around the base of the tree regularly to remove fallen flocking. A soft brush attachment is recommended to prevent damage to your floors.

Dealing with Persistent Shedding

Despite your best efforts, some shedding might still occur. If shedding is excessive, you can try these measures:

1. Hairspray (Temporary Fix)

Some people suggest a light spritz of hairspray to help hold the flocking in place. This is a temporary solution and should only be used as a last resort. Test it on an inconspicuous area first.

2. Accept the Inevitable

Ultimately, some level of shedding is to be expected with flocked trees. Embrace the winter wonderland and focus on enjoying the festive beauty of your tree.

Conclusion

While completely eliminating shedding from your flocked Christmas tree might be impossible, you can significantly reduce it with careful handling and preventative measures. By following these tips, you can enjoy a beautiful, less-shedding flocked tree that adds to the magic of the holiday season without the mess. Remember to prioritize choosing a high-quality tree to start with – that's the single best step towards minimizing future headaches!