How tall should your Christmas tree be? What size Christmas tree do you need? Should you go for the classic full shape, a narrow one, or something different? As a high-quality tree is meant to last, knowing the right Christmas tree dimensions ensures you’re making the right investment in your family’s holiday memory-making. We’ve broken down the process into four easy steps to guide you in finding your perfect artificial Christmas tree.
Step 1: Choose Where to Put Your Christmas Tree
Before looking for your tree, identify where you want to set it up. Here are some factors to consider
- Visibility – A Christmas tree serves as the focal point of your holiday home. Place it in a large room’s center or a cozy corner to command attention.
- Foot Traffic – To avoid accidents, provide clearance between your tree and doorways or walkways. Allot extra space to accommodate gifts.
- Furniture – You may need to rearrange or remove some pieces to make room for your tree.
- Power Source – Place your tree near an electrical outlet for easy lighting.
- Safety – Protect your tree from heat sources such as radiators, fireplaces, and candles.
Christmas Tree Display Area Ideas
Here are some popular spots to place your holiday tree.
Foyer
Welcome guests with a festive Christmas tree display in your entrance hall.
Living/Dining Room
Bring festive cheer to family gathering areas with a memorable holiday centerpiece.
Bedroom/Guest Rooms
Delight family members and guests by infusing Christmas cheer into other living areas.
Step 2: Measure the Space
Now that you’ve chosen the location for your tree, it’s time to size up your area. Grab a ladder and measuring tape, and follow our simple guide:
- Measure the distance between the ceiling and the floor and note it down.
- If you plan to use a tree topper, subtract 12 inches from your ceiling height. If you don’t need a topper, subtract 6 inches from your ceiling height. This measurement is the maximum height of your Christmas tree including its stand. All Balsam Hill standard Christmas tree sizes are calculated by measuring the tree stand to the topmost tip.
- Use your measuring tape to determine the available floor space for your tree. Adjust furniture placement if needed to maximize the area.
- Subtract 12 inches from this measurement and note it down. This is the maximum width of your tree.
Step 3: Find the Perfect Christmas Tree Size
Artificial Christmas trees are offered in various heights and shapes. As you review your options, don’t forget to match them to the measurements you listed.
When selecting the right height, allot 12 inches clearance between the top of your tree and the ceiling to accommodate a standard tree topper. Here’s our Christmas tree size chart for your reference:
- Under 6 feet - Tabletops, bedrooms, kid’s rooms, and small spaces
- 6 to 6 ½ feet - Areas with low ceilings
- 7 to 7 ½ feet - Rooms with standard 8- to 9-foot ceilings
- 8 to 9 feet - Rooms with high ceilings
- 10 to 14 feet - Public spaces and vaulted ceilings
Christmas Tree Shapes
Pick the ideal Christmas tree shape for your intended display area.
Full
The classic silhouette of natural Christmas trees makes this shape our most popular choice.
Slim
Slender options perfect for tight spaces without compromising on style.
Flatback
Get the look of a full Christmas tree while taking up only half the space.
Sparse
Lifelike trees with spaces between branches to showcase ornaments.
Wide
With its broad silhouette, wide artificial Christmas trees provide more room for décor and presents.
Step 4: Consider Other Factors
Some decorating decisions may influence the size of your Christmas tree, so take note of the following before making a purchase.
- Christmas Tree Toppers – Allot 6 inches of space between your tree topper and the ceiling. Check the dimensions of your topper to ensure your tree can accommodate it.
- Tree Skirts and Collars – Allow 6 inches around your tree for your Christmas tree skirt and gifts. Follow the same guideline for tree collars.
- Other Tree Décor - If you plan to put decorative elements like wooden trains or miniature villages, Nativity scenes, or similar vignettes underneath the tree, account for extra space so the area doesn’t look cluttered.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Size Artificial Tree Should I Get?
It depends on your intended display area. As many living rooms have a standard ceiling height of 8-9 feet, the most common Christmas tree height is 7 to 7 ½ feet tall. The general rule of thumb is to subtract one foot from your ceiling height, and the result is the maximum Christmas tree height you should get.
How To Choose the Right Size of Christmas Tree?
Measure the display area first, noting down how high the ceiling is and how much floor space you have for the tree. Subtract at least 12 inches from the ceiling height to know how tall your Christmas tree should be.
Is a 6-ft or 7-ft Christmas Tree Better?
For rooms with a standard ceiling height, a 7-foot tree fills the space nicely and gives you plenty of room to decorate and display gifts.
How Do You Shape an Artificial Christmas Tree?
After you've unboxed and set up your Balsam Hill artificial Christmas tree, use the included gloves to protect your hands as you gently fluff the foliage with your fingers. Fan out the branches and arrange the foliage for the best look before adding ornaments.
Stay Connected
For Expert Advice
Call 1.888.55.BALSAM, Text 1.650.855.8663, or Contact Us