A fresh evergreen Christmas tree, or an artificial tree? That is the question! I grew up with fake trees and had a perfectly happy childhood. But as an adult I've bought only fresh trees. I just couldn't quite bring myself to buy an artificial one ... that is, until I found out how many other moms are going with the perma-tree. The Prowl surveyed moms and found out a whopping 72 percent of you plan on decking an artificial tree this year. Check out the infographic below.
Contemplating going artificial this year? Here are a few tips for picking out the right tree and what to do with it.
1. Measure! You knew this already, but I just want to mention it in case. Look at how tall you can go and how wide. Where are you putting it? Make sure there's about a foot of clearance above your tree and maybe a foot or two around it.
2. Get a pre-lit Christmas tree. I didn't even know this was out there, but I love the idea. You can buy a tree that comes already strung with lights. Brilliant! For that matter, some trees come pre-decorated, too, if you want an extra one not filled with special family baubles, or maybe if you're in a temporary space this year.
3. Hinged or hook-in? Hinged trees are already pretty much put together and are easiest to set up, but they're also more expensive. Hook-ins are the IKEA of Christmas trees -- you'll need to assemble it yourself. But they're less expensive.
4. Get PE needles, not PVC. PE trees tend to have a more realistic look than PVC needles, which are attached to branches via wires. PVC needles also release toxic byproducts into your home. On the other hand, if you're OK with the fake look, you might as well go all the way and get an all-tinsel tree, which can be fun.
5. Check branches for sturdiness. Jiggle the display tree a bit to make sure this tree can handle all those heavy, clay ornaments your kids keep making.
6. Check the warranty. It's maybe not the most sentimental thing to consider, but as long as you're buying something you can store in the basement, it's a good idea to make sure it'll last at least 10 years.
Check out The Prowl for a full-size image of this graphic.
Do you use an artificial tree or do you buy a fresh tree every Christmas?
Image via Balsam Hill