Putting up Christmas decorations is always more fun than taking them down.
But the real frustration usually hits next year when you open three bins looking for lights that are hiding in the fourth one.
The kids will never know, and Christmas morning stays magical instead of turning into tech support before breakfast.
Most of us store holiday decorations in plastic tubs with vague labels like “Christmas stuff.” That works until you actually need to find something specific.
A simple tech upgrade can fix that problem: QR code storage labels.
Slip out to another room, and in a matter of minutes—or even seconds—you can send them a thoughtful gift that will have them thinking you had them in mind the whole time.
You can buy packs of QR code stickers online for around fifteen to twenty dollars. Each sticker works with a smartphone app that lets you label and track what’s inside each bin.
Here’s how it works. Stick a QR code label on a storage container and scan it with the app. Give the bin a clear name, then add a short description of what’s inside. You can also take photos of the contents, which turns out to be the most helpful part.
With the Christmas countdown on, there are some great small gadgets you might not have considered. You might think tech gifts are too big to wrap, but these small finds will be their favorite gadget of the year.
Instead of guessing which bin holds tree lights, ornaments, or garland, you’ll know instantly just by scanning the code.
When next Christmas rolls around, open the app or scan the code with your phone and see exactly what’s inside each container before pulling it down from storage.
The system works just as well for other holidays like Halloween, and it’s useful beyond decorations. Some people use QR codes for paint cans, tool storage, seasonal clothing, or boxes full of chargers and cables.
It does take a little extra time the first year, but once everything is labeled properly, decorating and cleanup both get faster every season.
Think of it as giving your future self a small Christmas gift. One that doesn’t involve untangling lights.
You can find a pack of QR Code smart stickers for under $20.