How To Hang Christmas Lights On Windows | Step-by-Step Guide

Learning how to hang Christmas lights on windows, both inside and outside, is a fantastic way to create a warm, festive atmosphere. This guide from Hirosart covers everything from prepping your windows and choosing the right lights to securing and testing them. 

How to Hang Christmas Lights Inside Windows

Hanging Christmas lights inside your windows instantly creates a cozy, festive vibe. Follow these steps for an effortless and stunning display.

What You’ll Need

To start, gather these materials:

• Christmas lights (mini-lights, wide-angle LEDs, battery-operated LEDs or C6 lights): To create a warm, festive glow
• Hooks or suction cups: To securely attach the lights to the window surface
• Extension cord: To provide power for plug-in lights when needed
• Timer: To automatically turn the lights on and off for convenience
• Adhesive pads: To ensure the lights stay in place without damaging the window frame
• Cable ties: To keep wires organized and prevent tangling
• Cleaning solution: To clean the window surface for better adhesion and a neat finish
• Ribbon, garland, or other decorations (optional): To add extra festive charm to your display

Step 1. Clean Your Window

Before you begin to hang Christmas lights on windows, ensure your windows are spotless to help adhesive clips stick properly. Use a glass cleaner or a mixture of warm water and mild detergent with a towel to remove dirt, dust, or residue on Christmas lights window frames. Focus on the edges and corners, as these areas will bear the weight of the lights.

Once cleaned, wipe the surface thoroughly with a dry cloth to prevent moisture from interfering with adhesion. A clean surface not only helps with secure installation but also makes the lights look brighter and more polished.

Step 2. Measure Your Window

Use a measuring tape to carefully measure the edges of your window where the lights will be placed. This ensures you’ll purchase the correct length of light strands without falling short or having excessive slack. Don’t forget to check the proximity of a power outlet if you’re using plug-in lights.

If you’re planning multiple windows, note the measurements for each to ensure you purchase the correct length of light.

Step 3. Choose Your Lights

Choose lights that match your style and fit your window size, such as mini-lights, C6 lights, wide-angle LEDs or battery-operated LEDs, to create the perfect look for your windows. 

Mini-lights are versatile and complement most aesthetics, adding a delicate and classic glow to your windows. For a classic touch, opt for C6 lights, the smallest version of traditional Christmas bulbs, providing timeless charm without overwhelming the space.

If you prefer a clean, modern look, battery-operated LED lights are a great Christmas indoor lights idea. They eliminate the need for extension cords, reduce heat, and are safer for extended use. With options like wide-angle LEDs, you can customize your display to suit your holiday theme.

Choose lights with a suitable length to cover your windows and reach the power source without straining cords. For battery-operated lights, ensure they last through the season. Opt for energy-efficient LEDs to save electricity while maintaining a stunning display.

Note: For added variety, consider other types of lights like ceramic bulbs or RGB lights to enhance your decorations further.

>>> See more: LED Lights vs Fairy Lights: What’s the Difference & Which’s Best for You?

Step 4. Match the Wires

Choosing the right wire color is essential for achieving a polished look. For white window frames, lights with white or clear wires blend seamlessly, while dark frames pair better with green or black wires. This minimizes the visibility of the wires, ensuring the lights are the focal point.

Additionally, consider the bulb spacing on the light strand, closer spacing creates a denser and more vibrant display, while wider spacing gives a softer, more spaced-out effect.

Step 5. Install the Clips

Depending on your window type and personal preference, you can choose from 3 main types of clips. Here’s how to use each type:

Type 1: Adhesive Strip with Detachable Hooks

These clips come with a separate adhesive strip and a detachable hook. They are ideal for smooth or painted wooden Christmas lights window frames.

• Remove the backing from the adhesive strip and firmly press it onto the frame. Make sure the hook's opening faces upward or outward to secure the lights properly.
• Attach the detachable hook to the adhesive base.
• Space the hooks evenly, about 2 - 3 inches apart, along the top and sides of the window frame.

Note: Allow the adhesive to set for at least an hour before hanging the lights to ensure a secure hold. These clips work well for framing the perimeter of the window and are easy to remove without damaging the surface.

Type 2: Pre-Adhesive Clips with Cable Tie Slots

This type of clip comes with pre-applied adhesive and built-in slots for securing lights with cable ties. These are ideal for heavier light strands or windows with glossy, slippery frames, such as metal or plastic.

• Peel off the protective backing and stick the clip directly onto the desired surface.
• Place the light strand over the clip and use a cable tie to loop through the slot, securing the strand firmly.
• Space the clips evenly around the window frame to avoid sagging.

Note: Use cable ties to secure heavy light strands to the hooks or adhesive pads, trimming any excess for a tidy look. This ensures stability, especially in drafty areas or with frequent movement.

Type 3: Suction Cup Clips

Suction cup clips attach directly to glass surfaces without the need for adhesive or hardware, making them ideal for glass-only windows or temporary setups.

• Clean the glass surface thoroughly to remove dust or grease, ensuring a strong grip.
• Press the suction cup firmly onto the glass until it creates a vacuum seal.
• Clip the light strand into the attached hook, adjusting as needed.

Note: These are most effective on large, smooth glass panes and are perfect for creating designs on the center of the window. They are easy to reposition and remove.

Step 6. Fit the Lights onto the Hooks or Pads

Carefully slide the light strands into the installed hooks or adhesive pads. Start at one corner and work your way around the frame, ensuring the wires are snugly secured in each clip. For a professional finish, position all the bulbs to face the same direction. Once the lights are in place, step back to check for uniformity.

If desired, enhance the display with decorations like garlands, ribbons, or battery-operated candles. Make sure additional items complement the indoor Christmas lights for windows without overwhelming the overall design.

Step 7. Test the Lights

The last step in the guide of how to hang Christmas lights on windows is plugging in or activating your indoor window lights to ensure they are working properly. Walk around the room to check for any sections that may need adjustment or additional support. Once satisfied, step back and admire your festive creation!

If using a timer, set it up to automatically turn the holiday lights on and off at your desired times. This saves energy and adds convenience during the busy holiday season.

If your window has a sill, enhance the festive look by adding decorative lighting such as night lamps, epoxy lamps, or small LED lanterns. These can complement the string lights and create a cozy, layered ambiance.

Suggested Products:

• Snowman Glow - Winter Wonderland Lamp
• Crimson Fox Glow - Enchanted Winter Light
• Majestic Tiger - Wild Night Light

How to Hang Christmas Lights Outside Windows

Decorating the exterior of your windows with Christmas lights can bring festive cheer to both your home and passersby. But how to hang lights around windows outside? Follow these steps to ensure your outdoor Christmas decorations are both secure and dazzling.

What You’ll Need

To create a stunning outdoor display, gather these essential tools and materials:

• Miniature lights: To outline windows with a soft, festive glow that adds charm to your home’s exterior
• Light hooks: To securely attach lights to the exterior of your window frames without causing damage
• Extension cord: To connect your lights to a nearby power source, ensuring they stay illuminated throughout the season
• Electrical tape: To protect your light connections from outdoor elements such as moisture, wind, and snow
• Battery-operated lights: To decorate windows without a nearby power outlet, providing a cleaner, cord-free appearance
• Magnetic clips: To attach lights to metallic window frames or surfaces with ease and without causing damage
• Waterproof connectors: To ensure electrical safety and prevent short circuits during wet or snowy weather
• Cable ties: To keep your lights securely in place, preventing sagging or shifting, and ensuring a neat display
• Ladder (if needed): To safely reach higher windows for light installation, ensuring stability and safety while decorating

Step 1. Select the Right Light Type

When selecting the right lights to hang outside windows for Christmas, consider three key criteria: size, type, and color. Size matters; miniature lights are ideal for outlining windows, providing a balanced and elegant look.

For the type of lights, opt for LED options as they are energy-efficient, long-lasting, and waterproof, making them perfect for outdoor use. Incandescent lights can offer a classic glow but ensure they are outdoor-rated. Color plays a significant role too - white lights create a timeless ambiance, while colored lights add a playful festive touch.

Additionally, ensure your lights are weatherproof and made from durable materials like copper, brass, or aluminum to resist rust and corrosion. In the EU, look for IP ratings, such as IP44 for splash-proof designs and IP65 for heavy rain resistance. 

In the USA, choose UL Wet or Damp rated fixtures based on their exposure to moisture. Always check local codes and consider consulting a qualified installer for safety.

Step 2. Measure Your Windows

Similar to measuring for indoor windows, use a tape measure to determine the length of the edges where lights will hang. For outdoor windows, ensure to account for space needed for hooks or clips and add a few extra inches for overlaps or securing connections. Additionally, prioritize measuring near waterproof outlets or plan for outdoor-rated extension cords or battery-powered options.

Step 3. Acquiring Your Lighting Supplies

Once you’ve decided on the light type and the number of strands, it’s time to purchase your lights and hooks. Christmas lights typically cost between $10 - $20 for strands of 50 - 100 lights. You can find them at holiday light retailers or big box stores.

As for hooks, they are often sold in bulk, with packages containing 50 - 100 hooks. Opt for adhesive hooks that are designed specifically for holding Christmas lights. These hooks don't require drilling or nails, making them an easy and non-invasive solution for window decoration.

Step 4. Plan Your Design for Outside Window

Next, plan how you want to position the lights around the window. If you have an external power source, this is a great time to install your lights outside. Make sure the lights you use are weather-resistant, especially if you plan to leave them up through cold or wet conditions. 

It's also important to avoid mixing different types of lights, such as LED and incandescent. The color of the bulbs can vary significantly, which will create a noticeable contrast that might distract from the overall design. Stick to one type of light when you want to hang Christmas lights on windows to maintain a uniform look.

Step 5. Connect the Strands

Lay the lights on the ground in your yard or inside your home and plug them into a power source. Check that all the bulbs are functioning, with no dull or broken ones. If you find any faulty bulbs, replace them before proceeding.

Once you confirm the lights are working, connect the strands together by plugging them into each other, following your window measurements. Be sure to align the lights so they all face the same direction for a uniform look. This step ensures you’re ready to hang the lights without issues.

Step 6. Position the Hooks

Position the hooks 2 to 3 inches (5.1 to 7.6 cm) apart around the window frame, ensuring even spacing for a balanced look. For windows with an existing frame, placing at least 6-8 hooks per window, with extra focus on the corners and sides for secure hanging.

If your window doesn’t have a frame for attaching hooks, consider attaching plastic strips with magnets along the edges. Once in place, use magnetic hooks to hang the lights easily, creating a secure and damage-free setup. 

Step 7. Position the Lights on the Hooks

Once the lights are connected, it's time to attach them to the hooks. Begin at one corner of the window and carefully slide the light strand onto each hook, spacing the hooks about 6 - 8 inches apart. Work your way around the window, ensuring the lights are evenly distributed. As you go, make sure the bulbs are facing the same direction for a uniform look. If you’re using outdoor lights, ensure they are securely positioned to prevent sagging or shifting.

Step 8. Secure the Lights

To make sure that you can hang Christmas lights on windows in place, use transparent tape or plastic cable ties to secure them to the hooks. Wrap tape around each bulb base to prevent slipping, or use ties for a firmer hold. Both are available at hardware stores.

For elevated areas, Command hooks are ideal as they require no drilling. Ensure safety by having a helper hold the ladder while you work.

Choose weather-resistant LED lights with waterproof casings. Install them in sheltered areas like under eaves, and regularly inspect for damage to replace if needed.

Step 9. Connect Your Lights to a Power Source (If Needed)

Once the lights are securely in place, it's time to connect them to a power source. If you're not using battery-operated lights, ensure your lights are close enough to an outlet to plug them in. If the plug doesn’t reach, use an extension cord to bridge the gap between the lights and the power source. 

To keep everything neat and prevent the cord from hanging loosely, use electrical tape to secure the extension cord along the side of your home. Once the lights are properly connected, plug them in and enjoy the festive display!

Conclusions

By decorating both the inside and outside of your windows with Christmas lights, you can spread festive cheer to everyone inside your home and passersby outside. Follow these simple steps on the guide of how to hang Christmas lights on windows to ensure your lights are secure, safe, and dazzling. With a little creativity and effort, your home will be glowing with holiday spirit!

FAQs

How do I prevent damage to my window frames?

Use non-invasive tools like adhesive hooks, suction cups, or removable strips designed for windows. Clean and dry the frames before applying for better grip. Remove decorations gently to avoid damaging the frames.

Can I use regular lights for indoor window displays?

Yes, but choose LED lights for energy efficiency and reduced heat. Avoid outdoor lights indoors as they may not be safe. Battery-operated lights are a convenient, cordless option.

How do I safely remove the lights after the holidays?

Unplug the lights, then detach them carefully from hooks or clips, starting at one corner. Gently peel off adhesive clips to avoid frame damage. Coil and store lights in a cool, dry place.