An evergreen strung with delicate ornaments and lights but sitting in a shaky, shoddy base is an accident waiting to happen, particularly if excited children and pets are involved. Fortunately, there’s a good assortment of sturdy, easy-to-assemble stands on the market for all tree types and sizes, from miniature Norfolk Island pines to towering balsam firs.
In this guide, we help shoppers find the best Christmas tree stand for their homes. The following is a list of our top choices.
- BEST OVERALL: Krinner Christmas Tree Genie XXL
- BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: National Tree Company 24-Inch Stand
- BEST WITH OUTLETS: Best Choice Products 360-Degree Rotating Stand
- BEST FOR LARGE TREES: Jack-Post Welded Steel Christmas Tree Stand
- BEST FOR SMALL TREES: Cinco C-148 Classic Christmas Tree Stand
- BEST FOR TABLETOP TREES: Cinco C-163 Advantage Christmas Tree Stand
- BEST ROTATING: Puleo International Rotating Tree Stand
- BEST ROLLING: National Tree Company 32-Inch Stand With Wheels
How We Chose the Best Christmas Tree Stands
Based on extensive product research, our recommendations for the best Christmas tree stands feature those that are constructed from a variety of materials and include options for real and artificial trees of varying sizes.
Our favorite models do something extra with the tree, such as spin it around 360 degrees so the full effect of this holiday season symbol can be fully appreciated. Other features we really like are large water reservoirs that help keep real trees alive and sturdy frames that firmly hold a Christmas tree in place. Not surprisingly, our picks either do not require any assembly or require a minimal amount.
Our Top Picks
Here are our picks for the best Christmas tree stands, based on extensive product research.
Photo: amazon.com
The Krinner Christmas Tree Genie XXL is one of the most heavy-duty models on the market, making it our best overall Christmas tree stand. Weighing in at a hefty 18 pounds, the stand provides maximum support for towering live trees up to 12 feet tall, with trunks up to 7 inches in diameter.
The stand also boasts the foot-pedal tightening method—a long-awaited, much-needed innovation in the category. Users simply need to place the tree in the open stand and pump the foot pedal until the five claws have a firm grip on the trunk, keeping the tree straight.
The stand holds 2.5 gallons (10 liters) of water and comes with an automatic water-level indicator to let the user know when to stop filling it or when the water is running low.
Product Specs
- Dimensions: 20 inches long by 20 inches wide by 6 inches tall
- Trunk-diameter capacity: Up to 7 inches
- Support capacity: Live tree up to 12 feet tall
Pros
- Original single-cable operation guarantees equal claw pressure around the trunk
- Security lock ensures the tree won’t move after it’s installed
- No assembly required; pump pedal till claws anchor trunk
- No need for screws; clamps hold trunk firmly in place
Cons
- Plastic pedal and clamps may break if not used properly
- Water may spill from reservoir if filled to maximum capacity
Get the Krinner Christmas tree stand at Amazon, Ace Hardware, or Krinner.
Photo: amazon.com
Constructed of heavy-duty steel, the National Tree Company’s Christmas tree stand provides users with years of repeated use. It supports artificial trees between 6.5 feet and 8 feet tall with a pole diameter of up to 1.25 inches.
To set up, users simply unfold the stand’s legs, place the tree inside, and secure it in place using the screw. Folded out wide, it provides a sturdy structure for displaying a Christmas tree and keeping the tree stable throughout the holiday season.
The stand folds flat for convenient storage once Christmas is over.
Product Specs
- Dimensions: 24 inches long by 24 inches wide by 6 inches tall
- Trunk-diameter capacity: Pole up to 1.25 inches
- Support capacity:Artificial trees between 6.5 feet and 8 feet tall
Pros
- Weighs 0.83 pounds—can lift tree inside stand if needed
- No assembly required
- Sturdy, heavy-duty steel construction
Cons
- Does not include adaptors to adjust and secure the pole
Get the National Tree Company 24-inch Christmas tree stand on Amazon.
Photo: walmart.com
This rotating Christmas tree stand from Best Choice Products claims a 26-inch footprint and stands 7.5 inches tall. When in operation, the stand rotates continuously, making a full 360-degree revolution every 70 seconds. The stand has three easy-to-operate settings, so users may choose to operate with lights and rotation, to operate with lights only, or to shut off both lights and rotation.
Constructed from acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) plastic, the stand provides a durable base for artificial trees up to 7.5 feet tall and 80 pounds (with decorations). Three built-in, two-pronged electrical outlets offer ample capacity for plugging in Christmas lights without entangling multiple cords.
Product Specs
- Dimensions: 26 inches long by 26 inches wide by 7.5 inches tall
- Trunk-diameter capacity: Pole up to 1.25 inches
- Support capacity: Artificial tree up to 7.5 feet tall and 80 pounds
Pros
- 360-degree rotation; as it spins, provides views from all angles
- 3 built-in electrical outlets keep wires and cords from tangling
- Sturdy ABS-plastic construction; can hold heavy, fully decorated trees
Cons
- Not intended for live trees; does not have water reservoir
- Doesn’t include adaptors to better secure tree; doesn’t play music
Get the Best Choice Products Christmas tree stand at Amazon, The Home Depot, Target, or Best Choice Products.
Photo: amazon.com
Christmas tree stands are not known for their looks. On that score, it’s hard to beat the Jack-Post welded tubular steel Christmas tree stand. Despite its light weight, the frame is incredibly sturdy and can accommodate trees up to a whopping 12 feet tall with trunks up to 7 inches in diameter.
There’s no assembly required: Users fill the 1.7-gallon water reservoir, place the tree inside the bowl, and then tighten the bolts until fixed in place. The four tubular steel legs have a 29.75-inch span and will not buckle under the load of a heavy tree.
The stand is made with a steel alloy and has a powder-coated finish that resists corrosion and adds to its durability.
Product Specs
- Dimensions: 22.5 inches long by 22.5 inches wide by 6.75 inches tall
- Trunk-diameter capacity: Up to 7 inches
- Support capacity: Live tree up to 12 feet tall
Pros
- Stand will not flex under the weight of heavy trees
- No assembly required
- Sturdy steel alloy and powder-coated construction
- Powder-coated finish resists corrosion
Cons
- Total supported weight capacity not specified
Get the Jack-Post Christmas tree stand at Lowe’s.
Photo: amazon.com
Shoppers shouldn’t be put off by the fact that this stand is plastic. The Cinco C-148 Classic provides more than enough support and stability for 6- to 10-foot-tall Christmas trees with a trunk diameter of up to 8 inches. This Cinco model weighs 5.25 pounds, holds an ample 1.75 gallons of water, and has plastic screw knobs for securing the tree in place.
The low-wide reservoir allows users to keep a tree looking full from top to bottom, as it accommodates low-hanging branches. And the spill guard helps prevent messes on the floor. The four steel spikes in the center of the reservoir anchor smaller trees, holding them in place.
Product Specs
- Dimensions: 20 inches long by 20 inches wide by 8 inches tall
- Trunk-diameter capacity: Between 6 and 8 inches
- Support capacity: Live tree up to 10 feet tall
Pros
- Accommodates low branches
- 3 pins lock and centralize tree before final adjustment
- Clean leather cloth finish, with spill guard on water reservoir
- Captive nut system; strong bolts allow for precise tree adjustment
Cons
- Shoppers have reported item missing nuts and bolts upon receipt
- Screws may be difficult to line up and adjust properly
Get the Cinco C-148 Christmas tree stand on Amazon.
Photo: amazon.com
For a tree small enough to fit on a tabletop—that is, a tree that’s 4 or less feet in height with a trunk diameter of up to 3 inches—opt for this stand by Cinco. Made of rustproof plastic and weighing only 1 pound, this stand offers all the features of the company’s larger models at a fraction of the size.
The reservoir holds up to 0.75 gallons (2.84 liters) and comes with a spill guard to help avoid messes. Three durable plastic screws tighten around the trunk and hold the tree in place, making setup quick and easy.
Product Specs
- Dimensions: 12 inches long by 12 inches wide by 5 inches tall
- Trunk-diameter capacity: Up to 3 inches
- Support capacity: Live tree up to 4 feet tall
Pros
- Install a live tree in a smaller setting
- All the features of the larger-stand models
- Decorate a large home with multiple trees—on tabletops and floors
Cons
- Screws made of plastic—not quite as sturdy as metal ones
- Total supported weight capacity unknown; fully decorated tree may lean
Get the Cinco C-163 Christmas tree stand on Amazon.
Photo: amazon.com
Puleo International is known for its beautiful Christmas trees and all-season wreaths. This rotating Christmas tree stand is available at a budget-friendly price, and it highlights the beauty of a glimmering artificial tree by showing it from all sides.
The 6-pound stand operates at one rotational speed, and users can reverse the direction by turning the tree slightly in the opposite direction. A toggle switch on the electrical cord lies flat on the floor, allowing users to modulate from “on” to “off” with a gentle press of the toe. This feature eliminates the need to bend over and reach under the tree. For safety, the Puleo International tree stand is both flame-retardant and nonallergenic.
Product Specs
- Dimensions: 26 inches long by 26 inches wide by 7.5 inches tall
- Trunk-diameter capacity: Pole up to 1.25 inches
- Support capacity: 7- to 7.5-foot-tall artificial trees up to 80 pounds
Pros
- Holds an 80-pound, 7.5-foot tree with 1,000 lights
- Built-in electrical outlet for lights; flame-retardant and nonallergenic
Cons
- Does not play music; operates in only 1 rotational speed
- Does not have a water reservoir; cannot accommodate live trees
Get the Puleo International Christmas tree stand at Amazon or Lowe’s.
Photo: amazon.com
Whether someone needs to move the tree around the room several times before finding the perfect spot or wants the option to change their mind after a couple of days, having a Christmas tree stand with rolling wheels is ideal. Enter this National Tree Company Christmas tree stand.
The stand supports live trees between 9 and 10 feet tall with a 1.25-inch-diameter center pole. The four legs have locking caster wheels, meaning users can relocate the tree and safely lock it in place once they’re satisfied with the location.
Made of strong steel components, the stand will last many years. When not in use, the legs fold flat for convenient storage.
Product Specs
- Dimensions: 28 inches long by 28 inches wide by 9 inches tall
- Trunk-diameter capacity: 1.25-inch-diameter center pole
- Support capacity: Live trees between 9 and 10 feet tall; artificial trees between 7.5 and 8 feet tall
Pros
- Can move a tree around the room as needed
- Locking casters ensure the tree won’t roll once in place
- Legs fold flat for convenient storage
- Sturdy construction
Cons
- Total supported weight capacity not included
Get the National Tree Company 32-inch Christmas tree stand at The Home Depot or Lowe’s.
What to Consider When Choosing a Christmas Tree Stand
Before selecting a Christmas tree stand, shoppers should determine whether it will be used to support a live tree or an artificial one, what the size of the tree will be, and whether a plastic or metal stand is most suitable. They should also determine whether they want the stand to include features, such as a water reservoir (for live trees), music-playing capacity, and electrical receptacles for tree lights. Here’s a closer look at these and other considerations.
Type
Christmas tree stands come in three different designs:
- A standard Christmas tree stand displays a Christmas tree in a fixed location—once it’s installed and decorated, there is no easy way of moving it around the room.
- A rotating Christmas tree stand also holds the tree in a fixed location while spinning it in place 360 degrees. Decorate it top to bottom and all around, and enjoy the tree from every angle.
- A rolling Christmas tree stand has caster wheels at the bottom that move the Christmas tree around the room when needed. Decorate a tree in the middle of a room and then move it around, from corner to corner, to find the perfect spot.
Material
Christmas tree stands are generally constructed of either metal or plastic, and, in most cases, metal is a more durable material. If a large, hefty tree is to be displayed, a heavy-duty Christmas tree stand made of steel or cast iron is a wise choice.
Aluminum stands are typically cheaper than steel but may bend if made to support trees beyond their capacity. Cast iron offers the most strength, but it’s also a heavier, more expensive metal. Plastic tree stands are generally the most affordable, with some high-quality designs capable of supporting both live and artificial trees. However, these stands won’t last as long compared to metal varieties.
Trunk Diameter and Support Capacity
Before selecting the most suitable Christmas tree stand, shoppers should consider the diameter of the tree trunk. Artificial trees have center poles that typically measure approximately 1 inch to 1.5 inches in diameter, while live tree trunks may be around 5 inches in diameter.
Shoppers should also factor in the size and weight of the tree. Aside from specifying whether they’re made for real trees or artificial ones, Christmas tree stands usually include information in their product descriptions regarding the maximum height and weight they support. Shoppers should note that the calculated weight of a tree includes all the lights and ornaments that will adorn it.
Water Supply
Water-supply concerns apply to shoppers who bring a natural tree home for the holidays. To prolong the great green look of a live tree for the weeks ahead, a Christmas tree stand should include a reservoir for supplying water. According to the Department of Agriculture at Penn State, a tree stand’s reservoir should contain 1 quart of water per inch of trunk diameter. For example, a large tree with a 6-inch-diameter trunk needs a reservoir containing 1.5 gallons of water. Water should be replenished daily during the first week, with water levels monitored carefully for each successive week.
Operating Modes
Many rotating Christmas tree stands offer versatile operating modes—including “on,” “off,” “rotation with lights,” “rotation with music,” and “rotation only”—at the touch of a switch. Some revolving tree stands operate via remote control, while other models have operational switches located directly on the stand along with toggle switches on the electrical cords. Switches at the base of a revolving tree stand offer greater convenience—the simple push of the switch with a toe spares users from having to bend down and reach under the tree.
Most rotating tree stands also feature electrical outlets for the tree lights. With these receptacles at the base of the tree, the hassle of multiple entangled cords snaking across the floor is eliminated.
Setup
Most Christmas tree stands require minimal setup, and many are ready to use straight out of the box. If setup is required, it usually takes only a couple of minutes and a screwdriver. After that, the stand is ready to go. For rotating stands, it’s simply a matter of plugging in the unit and selecting an operating mode.
All tree stands are designed to keep the tree upright, with most relying on bolts that are tightened into the trunk or pole. This is generally considered a two-person job, as the tree will not be stable until all the bolts are adjusted. An innovative alternative to the bolt method is a stand that grips the trunk with claws that are tightened via a ratcheting foot pedal.
Tips for Using a Christmas Tree Stand
The best Christmas tree stands face the toughest challenges, such as pets or kids knocking the tree over and causing the stand to scratch the hardwood floor.
To minimize any risk of damage, shoppers should:
- Know the measurements of the Christmas tree before buying a stand.
- Place a piece of hardboard (on carpets) or an old towel (on hardwood) under the stand to protect flooring and add stability.
- Tie fishing wire at the top of the tree in a few places to secure it.
- Secure the tree inside the stand with the tree’s netting still on.
- Position a rotating Christmas tree stand so guests can admire it from all angles.
- Place a snow saucer under the stand of a live tree to prevent damage from water spillage.
- Keep a live tree hydrated for fire safety.
- Avoid setting up the tree close to fireplaces or candles.
- Lock the casters on rolling tree stands once in place.
FAQs
Our guide offers all the considerations shoppers need to think about when choosing the best Christmas tree stand for their homes. Some questions may still pop up involving stand size, how to position a Christmas tree in the stand, and whether there are any DIY alternatives. Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about Christmas tree stands.
Q. Why won’t my tree stay in the stand?
If the Christmas tree fails to hold firm, it may not meet the stand’s specific requirements regarding supported height, weight, and trunk diameter.
Q. What do you do if your Christmas tree is too small for your tree stand?
Wrapping a few inches of fabric around the base of the tree should provide the support needed to keep the tree from wobbling.
Q. Should a Christmas tree touch the bottom of the stand?
Not really; that’s why many stands have prongs at the bottom. Cutting some of the limbs so the tree can rest on top of these prongs should do the trick.
Q. Can I use a rotating tree stand with a real tree?
Yes, but it must be designed for live trees. These models have a large opening for the tree trunk in addition to a water reservoir to keep the tree fresh.
Q. What can I use instead of a tree stand?
A plant pot works and so does a galvanized tub, with the tree placed in the center and held upright with gravel and cinder blocks.
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