A memorial wind chime can stay outdoors through many seasons, but winter weather can be hard on any object that hangs outside. Ice, heavy snow, freezing rain, strong wind, and roof runoff can stress the cord, wood, hook, and finish. Learning how to store a memorial wind chime in winter helps protect both the product and the memory it represents.
EXQUIVERA memorial wind chimes are made with black aluminum tubes, natural wood details, and sturdy hanging hardware, but thoughtful winter care can help them look and sound better for longer.
Should you bring a wind chime inside for winter?
In mild climates, a sheltered covered porch may be enough. In areas with heavy snow, ice, high winds, or repeated freeze-thaw cycles, bringing the chime indoors during the harshest months is usually wise. This is especially true if the chime hangs from a tree branch, exposed hook, or place where it can hit a wall during storms.
When to store it
| Condition | Recommended action | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Light winter weather | Keep in a sheltered spot | Reduces direct exposure |
| Heavy snow or ice | Bring indoors | Protects cord, wood, and hook |
| High wind warnings | Temporarily remove | Prevents impact damage |
| Coastal winter storms | Clean and store | Salt air can speed wear |
How to store a memorial wind chime
- Take it down gently from the hook.
- Wipe the aluminum tubes and wood parts with a soft dry cloth.
- Let any moisture dry fully before storing.
- Wrap the tubes loosely in soft cloth or paper so they do not scratch each other.
- Store the chime in a dry indoor place away from heavy objects.
- Keep the hook and cord visible so you can inspect them before rehanging.
Care for EXQUIVERA wind chimes
The 37 inch EXQUIVERA memorial wind chime is a strong choice for covered porches and family gardens, while the 32 inch EXQUIVERA chime works well for smaller balconies and windows. Both sizes should be protected from severe winter exposure when possible.
Do not use harsh cleaners before storage. A soft cloth is usually enough. If the chime was exposed to salt air or heavy dirt, use a slightly damp cloth and let every part dry completely before packing it away.
Make winter storage a remembrance ritual
Taking down a memorial wind chime can feel emotional. For some families, the sound has become part of daily remembrance. Instead of treating storage as an interruption, turn it into a small seasonal ritual: wipe the tubes, say the loved one's name, read the card again, and choose when you will hang it back outside in spring.
"The song is ended, but the melody lingers on."
Where to store it
- A closet shelf with light wrapping.
- The original gift box, if dry and clean.
- A storage bin that will not crush the tubes.
- An indoor remembrance corner, if the family wants to keep it visible.
Using it indoors during winter
Some families do not want to put the chime away completely. If the sound has become part of remembrance, consider hanging it indoors near a window or placing it in a remembrance corner until spring. Make sure it is secure and not in a walkway where it can be bumped.
The 32 inch EXQUIVERA chime is often easier to keep indoors during winter because it fits smaller spaces. The 37 inch chime has a stronger presence and may be better stored safely if indoor space is limited.
What not to do
- Do not store the chime while it is wet.
- Do not wrap it tightly in plastic if moisture may be trapped inside.
- Do not place heavy boxes on top of the tubes or wooden parts.
- Do not leave it hanging where ice can build up on the cord or hook.
- Do not use harsh chemicals to clean the tubes or wood.
When not to store it away
If the chime is under a fully covered porch in a mild climate, and the family finds comfort in hearing it year-round, it may not need to be stored. The goal is not to remove it automatically. The goal is to protect it when weather conditions become harsh.
Before rehanging in spring
Inspect the hook, cord, tubes, and wood parts. Make sure the hanging point is still stable. Choose a sheltered location where the chime can move freely without striking a wall, railing, or window.
If you are giving a wind chime in winter
If you send a memorial wind chime during winter, include a note that gives the recipient options. They may hang it indoors for now, store it until spring, or keep it boxed until they are ready. A good sympathy gift should not create an immediate task in cold weather.
Write something like: "Please use this whenever the timing feels right. It can wait for spring." That small sentence can make the gift easier to receive.
Rehanging as a spring remembrance ritual
When warmer weather returns, rehanging the chime can become a quiet ritual. Choose a calm day, wipe the tubes, inspect the hook, and place the chime where it can move freely. Some families say the loved one's name or read the original sympathy card before hanging it again.
Seasonal care does not need to be formal. It is simply a way of continuing attention, which is often what remembrance asks of us.
If the chime was a gift, this can also be a good time to reread the original card and decide whether the same hanging spot still feels right.
FAQ
Can memorial wind chimes stay outside in winter?
In mild, sheltered conditions, yes. In heavy snow, ice, high wind, or coastal storms, indoor storage is safer.
Should I clean the chime before storing it?
Yes. Wipe it gently and let it dry completely before storing.
Can I keep it indoors during winter?
Yes. Some families hang the chime near a window or keep it in a remembrance corner until spring.
Winter care is a small act of protection. It helps a memorial wind chime continue offering its quiet sound when the warmer seasons return.