How to Clean a Fake White Christmas Tree

A beautifully decorated artificial white Christmas tree is the perfect way to deck the halls this holiday season. White Christmas trees make a versatile statement in your holiday decor, whether you're going for a mid-century modern look or an elegant snowy look. Decorations and lights pop against the bright white background for a stunning holiday scene.

But maintaining that pristine white look isn't always easy. All artificial Christmas trees collect dust on the needles, but white trees tend to show off that dust more prominently than green trees. You might also have to deal with yellowing on the tree's needles. Sprucing up your artificial white Christmas tree before you add your decorations ensures it's crisp, white, and beautiful for all your holiday gatherings and family photos.

Cleaning a White Christmas Tree

Check the Warranty

1. Review the warranty terms on your Christmas tree if it's still under warranty. Some manufacturers will void the warranty if you use certain cleaning methods, such as bleaching the tree.

Dust the Tree

2. Remove your Christmas tree from storage. Use a feather duster or something similar to remove any dust or particles that may be lingering on the branches from storage. You can also use a slightly damp rag, but choose a white rag only. Using colored rags can cause the dye to tint the tree's white needles, creating a bigger problem. Vacuuming is another option if you use a soft attachment and a low setting to avoid damaging the branches or removing needles.

Assemble the Tree

3. Carry the white Christmas tree outside to brighten the needles if they're yellowing. If the tree isn't assembled, assemble it. Position it in a sunny spot. Sometimes giving the tree a few hours in the sun can whiten the branches enough to get rid of the yellowing. Other times you might need a little help from a vinegar mixture to whiten the tree.

Mix Vinegar Solution

4. Fill the empty spray bottle with three parts vinegar and one part water. Shake the solution well to mix. Never use bleach on your tree. Its chemical properties will damage the branches.

Spray the Branches

5. Spray all of the branches of the tree with your vinegar and water solution. Make sure all branches are coated. If you apply the spray unevenly, you'll likely end up with patchy yellowing with brighter white spots where the vinegar went.

Put the Tree in Sunlight

6. Leave your tree in the sunlight for at least 12 hours. The sunlight will naturally bleach the areas where the vinegar and water solution has been sprayed. This method works best when it's warm and sunny outside. If you live in a climate that's cold during the winter, think ahead and clean your tree in the summer.

Bring the Tree Indoors

7. Let the tree dry completely. Dust off any debris from outside. Once the tree is dry and clean, bring it inside and decorate it as you wish.

Store It Carefully

8. Clean the tree again at the end of the season by dusting it before you put it in storage. Wrap it in tissue paper to protect the white Christmas tree. Place the tree back in its original packaging or in a waterproof Christmas tree storage bag to protect it from dust and moisture. Store your tree in a cool, dry place.