How to Dispose of a Christmas Tree

Real Christmas trees smell so wonderful and are the perfect accessory for the holiday season, but how do you get rid of them once Christmas has passed? We’ve got you covered! Here are some ideas on how to safely dispose of your tree.

When Should You Get Rid of Your Christmas Tree?

There are many tell-tale signs that it’s time to take the tree down, including:

• the pines begin to brown
• it’s emitting a funky smell
• it’s shedding more
• the pines come right off with barelly any force

It’s understandable why many people put this off for several days after Christmas is over, but it’s important to note that the longer you wait, the more flammable the tree becomes.

If it’s a fake tree, the decision is all yours! Some people keep their tree up for several months after December 25th, while others keep it up all year and re-decorate it for the holidays. Most commonly, the tree comes down within the week following Christmas day.

Are Christmas Trees Recyclable?

The simple answer is, yes (for the most part) – but there’s a few things you need to do first before you can recycle your tree.

Recycling a Real (not flocked) Tree

1. Remove all ornaments, lights or other decorations on the tree (including garland, tinsel, etc.). Don’t forget about the stand!
2. Find a recycling program in your area. Get started here.
3. Protect your floor/carpet with tarp to avoid mass shedding all over your house as you move the tree.
4. Keep in mind that you may need to cut the tree down (if over 5ft tall) to fit in any car/truck that may be used to haul it away.

Are Flocked Trees Recyclable?

If you flock your tree, it will no longer be able to be recycled.

Are Artificial Trees Recyclable?

No, due to them being made of PVC (polyvinyl chloride). It’s recommended to donate the tree to someone or a secondhand store.

Can You Put a Christmas Tree in the Dumpster?

You should be able to; however, it is recommended to check with your local waste company to ensure that yard waste is accepted.

You may also want to look into your local recycling options – check out the details on recycling your tree in the prior paragraph.

If it’s an artificial tree, it would be considered general waste, so you should be just fine.

Can You Burn a Christmas Tree Outside?

As long as your location allows outside fires, you should be just fine to chop it up for wood in a fire pit. Before you do, though – make sure you let the chopped wood dry out for a few months before using it for firewood.

Can I Burn My Christmas Tree in My Fireplace?

Do NOT burn your Christmas tree in an indoor fireplace. The sap from the tree can stick to the inside of your chimney, leading to a house fire.

Can I Dump My Christmas Tree in the Woods?

Sure! Since trees are biodegradable, you can dispose of your tree in the woods. If you have a local zoo nearby, you may also be able to donate it to them a as big cat play toy! Did you know that Christmas Trees have the same effect on lions & tigers as catnip has to house cats?

If you do decide to go this route, please be sure you have properly removed all decorations from the tree so it’s exactly the way it was before you put it in your home.

What Happens to Christmas Trees After Christmas?

You can rest assured your old tree is doing some good once you recycle it! Here’s what may have happened to your tree:

• Repackaged as mulch
• Became fuel at a waste-to-energy plant
• Helps small fish hide from predators

Keep in mind you can only recycle un-flocked trees and all other trees (including artificial) will simply become waste.

How Do You Wrap a Christmas Tree for Disposal?

Disposing of your tree doesn’t have to be a big hassle. Here’s the best way to dispose of your tree this holiday:

1. Remove ALL decorations (tree skirt, ornaments, lights, stand, tinsel, garland, topper, filler branches, etc.).
2. Have a large container/bucket handy to empty the tree stand.
3. If your tree is over 5ft, you may be required to cut it down to fit in a truck/car for removal. This depends on how you plan on recycling it, so check with your local company.
4. Take a large plastic bag (they make some specifically for tree disposal) and cover your tree. This will protect your home from all the shedding needles/sap that may come from the tree while removing it from your house.
5. Carry the tree to the curb for pickup (or out to your car if you plan to bring it somewhere, yourself).

How to Clean Up After Tree Removal

You’re going to have pine needles on the ground where the tree was – this is pretty much unavoidable. Be sure that when you’re cleaning, you use a broom to sweep the needles into a pile for cleanup instead of using a vacuum.

Pine needles can cause damage to your vacuum, so be sure to avoid this method at all costs.

It’s important to inspect the area your tree was in for any potential water damage from the base of the tree stand if overwatered. You’ll want to attend to this immediately to avoid mold.

Where Can I Drop Off My Old Christmas Tree in Las Vegas

There’s a wide variety of dropoff locations across the valley offered by Springs Preserve.