Do you want a fake Christmas tree or a real Christmas tree? Which one is better?

Pros of an Artificial Christmas Tree:

Long-term Costs Are Lower

Even a relatively cheap Christmas tree can cost $50, and prices can go up substantially from there. While real Christmas trees are one use only, artificial trees can be used over and over, sometimes for decades. Even if you purchase an extravagant artificial Christmas tree, it’s something that you can get years of use out of.

Allergen Free

Artificial Christmas trees are a major relief to people who suffer from allergies. Live trees tend be breeding grounds for mold and mildew, especially since they have to be watered regularly to keep from drying out while in your home. On the other hand, artificial trees are totally allergen free, unlike real trees, which can cause major problems for people with asthma or other respiratory problems.

Maintenance and Cleanup Are A Breeze

One of the reasons that real Christmas trees smell so good is their pine needles, but these same needles are a major headache. Needles tend to shed all over the place while you are bringing in a tree, setting it up and especially when you are removing it after the holidays are over. You also need to be sure to water the tree or it will start to dry out quickly, causing needles to shed at an even faster rate. Artificial trees, of course, have no such issues, and they don’t require any special attention once they’re up and decorated.

Pre-decorated and Whimsical Trees

While real trees are gorgeous, you’re not likely to find anything but a green and bare tree for sale. However, there are a wide variety of unique artificial Christmas trees for sale. Whether you want a tree that’s pink, upside-down, covered in snow or that features LED lights, you can find an artificial version of it. Additionally, if you enjoy how festive a decorated tree makes your home but aren’t thrilled about going through the decorating process, pre-decorated artificial trees are also available.

Cons of a Fake Christmas Tree:

No Pine Tree Smell

One of the biggest advantages that real trees have over artificial trees is the amazing pine smell that real trees produce. However, there are now sprays that you can buy that will help to make your artificial tree smell like the real thing.

Picking Out A Tree Isn’t The Same

Many people enjoy the process of going out and finding the perfect tree and bringing it home. If you buy an artificial tree, you’re not going to have the same feeling of going through tree after tree on a winter evening and finding the exact one you want. On the other hand, you may consider this a hassle, so it could make an artificial tree even more attractive to you.

Artificial Trees Can Still Be Flammable

While there’s no question that real Christmas trees can be a potential fire hazard, some individuals may be surprised to hear that artificial trees may also present the same issue. The good news is many artificial trees now are made with fire retardant materials, so if this is a concern for you, be sure to pick a tree that is Inherently Fire Retardant.

It's your decision.