Purchasing an artificial Christmas tree is an important decision. Our
goal is to provide you with valuable information that will allow you
to find the right retailer and the perfect artificial Christmas tree to
enjoy season after season.
What to Look for in a Tree:
- In general, the more branch "tips" on an artificial Christmas
tree, the better! A good test is looking
whether the center pole is clearly visible; if it's likely a poor quality tree-
Don't But it!
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Look carefully at the branch tips - do they look real enough
for you? Are the right colors? Are they shaped like a
real branch tip? Some retailers offer artificial Christmas
trees with molded branch tips, which are meant to look and
feel just like a real tree.
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Buy an artificial Christmas tree with "hinged" branch
construction for easy setup (branches falls into place and
are already attached to the center pole). Don't spend
hours assembling a "hooked" tree (you have to insert each branch into the pole!).
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Look for clear lights and colored lights, or even better, a tree that has both! Good retailers feature
foot pedals and/or a remote control for added convenience. If you like to change the kind of lights
your Christmas lights has each season, you should consider an unlit artificial Christmas tree.
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Look for a high-quality, metal tree stand with rubber feet to prevent the tree from scratching your
floor.
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Be careful of LED lights: many types of LEDs don't emit the warm glow associated with regular tree
lights: rather, they can give off a harsh, white light. If you are looking at a tree with LED lights,
check whether the lights are "candlelight LEDs, " which give off a warm glow, or other LEDs that are
similar to regular clear lights (or stick with traditional lights).
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Make sure lights are UL-approved and "twist-proof" to prevent burnouts.
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Check whether the warranties (light and foliage) are backed by the tree manufacturer. If they are
not, you'll be passed on to a third party.
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Artificial Christmas trees can range from 4-15 feet (and larger!). The most common tree height is
7.5 feet. Be sure to leave room for your tree topper!
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The standard tree shape is "full." Smaller trees are called "narrow" or "slim." with an artificial
Christmas tree, you can always shape the branches to make a custom-fit in your room.
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When decorating outdoors, double-check the quality of lights so you know they'll survive the cold
and snow!
Remember: the more your artificial tree looks like the real thing, the more pleased you will be
with the results of your purchase, so make absolutely sure you are getting what you pay for!
What to Look for in a Retailer:
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make sure the retailer is using high-resolution photos, preferably with some sort of zoom function
so you can inspect the tree and branches close-up. Don't get cheated by a misleading picture!
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Look at the selection offered by the retailer. Does the retailer offer lifelike molded branch tips, or
only PVC (looks a bit like shredded paper) branch tips on its artificial Christmas trees?
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Does the retailer offer branch samples? These kits are great because it gives you the chance to
examine each type of branch. which will help you choose which artificial Christmas tree is right for
you.
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Consider whether the retailer is specialized in selling artificial Christmas trees; do you want to buy
your Christmas tree from a retailer that sells hundreds of other non-Christmas items?
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Look at the media attention the retailer has earned. Has the retailer been featured on major news
programs or in magazines? Won awards for its products? Does the retailer have any credentials
from third parties?
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Look for retailer that have thorough tree descriptions - read a few to see if you can get a feel for
what the trees would look like in you home.
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Look for "in-home photos" of the artificial Christmas tree to get a better sense for what they look
like in a room.
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Check if the retailer has any informational videos about their products. Videos are a great way to
learn more about the retailer and the artificial Christmas trees it sells.
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