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How to Choose the Perfect Christmas Tree for Your Home

Jess Power - Interior design expert

Jess

If you’re in the market for a new Christmas tree, you’re probably finding the endless options overwhelming. Real or artificial? Separate lights or pre-lit? 6ft or 7ft? Well, fear not, as our complete guide has all the answers!

Decorated green Christmas tree with warm lights in a bright living room beside a festive fireplace

It’s that time of year again… the days are shorter, the supermarket aisles are lined with mince pies, and mulled wine season is almost upon us. There’s just one problem… you don’t have a tree.

But wait! Before you rush out and grab one off the shelf, you need to make sure you’re buying the right tree for your home. From size and shape to colour and longevity, here’s everything you need to know before buying your perfect Christmas tree.

Pre-lit artificial Christmas tree with warm white lights and a natural sparse shape in a festive living room

First Things First: Real Or Artificial?

 

There’s no right or wrong answer here. It really comes down to what works best for your home and how you like to celebrate Christmas.

 

Real Christmas Trees

 

For many of us, a real Christmas tree is part of the magic. You get the smell of pine, the natural shape and you don’t have to worry about storing it if you’re short on space.

They do need more TLC though, like watering and picking up any fallen needles. You’ll also need to dispose of it after Christmas, and unless you’re able to replant it in your garden, you’ll need to buy a new one the following year.

Snow-flocked artificial Christmas tree with warm white lights and a full shape in a festive living room

Artificial Christmas Trees

 

An artificial Christmas tree is a great option if you want something you can bring out every year without needing to buy a new one. Not only will this save you money in the long run, but you also get to choose the exact shape and size that suits your home.

Browse our range of classic Christmas trees, offering that real aesthetic, without the maintenance.

What Size Christmas Tree Should You Buy?

 

This is probably the most important thing to get right, as trees can often look smaller in shops or online.

Before buying, measure the space where you want your tree to go. A tall one might look impressive, but you won’t be able to squeeze a 7ft tree underneath a 7ft ceiling.

It’s worth remembering that the overall height will also include the stand and whatever you’re using as a topper.

Don’t forget about the width either, as a traditional full-shaped tree can have quite a wide base.

Small snow-flocked artificial Christmas tree with warm white lights, ideal for compact living spaces

What Shape Christmas Tree Should You Buy?

 

If you’ve got the space, opt for a full-shaped Christmas tree – their traditional, bushy shape look the most authentic for that classic Christmas tree look.

If you’re working with a smaller room, slim or potted Christmas trees are ideal as they’re designed to fit into narrower spaces.

 

Should You Buy A Pre-Lit Tree?

Slim artificial Christmas tree with warm white lights and a woven tree skirt, ideal for smaller living rooms

Some artificial trees come with lights already attached, which saves you the dreaded task of untangling lights and making sure they’re dispersed evenly.

The only downside is that pre-lit trees can be more expensive, so it’s up to you whether the time saved each December is worth it.

 

What Colour Christmas Tree Should You Go For?

 

While you can’t go wrong with a lush green Fir, you may be in the market for something that’s a little outside the box.

Maybe a white Christmas tree would match your home’s Scandi interior. Maybe the kids are desperate for a rainbow tree. There are no rules here – ignore the crowd and pick whichever colour makes you happiest.

White twig Christmas tree with warm white lights and wrapped presents, creating a minimalist festive display

How Should You Store Your Artificial Christmas Tree?

 

Once you’ve chosen your perfect tree, it’s a good idea to store it properly so it’ll last for years to come. A dedicated storage bag with wheels will keep away any pesky spiders and is much easier to transport from your garage to the house.

Make sure you’re looking after your lights too. This handy storage reel helps prevent tangles and makes winding and unwinding much easier.

Artificial Christmas tree being packed into a protective storage bag ready to store away after Christmas

So, Which Christmas Tree Is Right For You?

 

Ultimately, the best Christmas tree is the one that suits your space, style and budget. Armed with this knowledge, why not check out our new range of Christmas trees so you’re raring to go come December?

Ready to start decorating? Check out our ultimate guide teaching you how to decorate your Christmas tree like a pro. 

Don’t forget to tag us on Instagram or Facebook – we can’t wait to see your festive styling!

Jess Power - Interior design expert

Jess

Jess is one of our resident home interior experts here at MFI. She loves writing about the latest home interior trends, mid-century design and the different ways you can create your dream home on a budget.