Real vs. Fake Christmas Tree: Which is the Better Choice?

Choosing between a real or artificial Christmas tree has become a significant decision for many households. With each option offering unique advantages, from the authentic pine aroma of a real tree to the convenience and reusability of an artificial one, the decision ultimately reflects personal and practical considerations.

Should you opt for a real or fake Christmas tree? While real trees bring the scent and authenticity of a classic Christmas, artificial ones offer convenience and reusability.

If you are:

• Thinking of buying a real Christmas tree or artificial Christmas tree that looks real;
• Wondering about Christmas tree footprint – real vs. fake Christmas trees and which is better;
• Whan to know the benefits of artificial vs real Christmas trees;

Keep reading! This article will answer your questions.

Real Christmas trees

Real Christmas trees are a staple for many households, bringing a touch of nature into the home. Their authentic pine scent and unique textures offer a distinct connection to the outdoors, which artificial options struggle to emulate.

Pros of real Christmas trees

Real trees are typically grown on Christmas tree farms, providing a renewable source that can be replanted each year. For every tree harvested, farmers often plant another to maintain a sustainable cycle. Additionally, real trees are biodegradable and, when disposed of correctly, contribute to the environment by enriching the soil.

Cons of real Christmas trees

A live tree that ends up in a landfill can emit the equivalent of 16kg of greenhouse gases. It will release methane due to the rotting process. This is not very green, but don’t worry – it’s not the only option!

Real trees are recyclable. They can be mulched and used for landscaping. Potted Christmas trees, on the other hand, can be replanted in your garden and used again next year. If you wish to know more, read the “How to Look After Your Potted Christmas Tree” article we prepared.

Artificial Christmas trees

Artificial Christmas trees offer a convenient and mess-free alternative to real trees. Crafted from PVC, these trees come in various shapes and sizes, often pre-lit, eliminating the need for stringing lights.

Pros of artificial Christmas trees

Cons of artificial Christmas trees

How to choose a non-toxic artificial tree

Some fake trees are made entirely out of PVC and often contain toxic materials such as lead to stabilise their shape. Prolonged exposure to such materials has been shown to play a major role in stunting early-childhood development as well as nerve damage. Many scientists now believe that there is no safe level of exposure to lead.

Fortunately, many companies have traded in pure PVC for a mix of polyethylene (PE) and PVC. This not only reduces the potential toxicity, but also allows for more realistic fake Christmas trees. Three-dimensional PE needles are placed at the front of the branch, while flat PVC bristles fill in the backs.

If you have chosen to buy an artificial tree this year, here is what to look for in order to choose the safest one:

1. Look for the phrase ‘molded tips’ on the packaging.
2. Check the needles at the front of the branches. PE bristles are rounded and life like, whereas PVC bristles are flat.

Are Christmas trees a fire hazard?

There are quite a few myths floating around regarding the fire risks posed by real and artificial Christmas trees. It is commonly believed that real trees are more susceptible to catching fire, due to the fact that artificial trees have a fire-retardant coating.

Can artificial Christmas trees catch fire?

Although real Christmas trees can catch fire faster, flame-retardant fake Christmas trees are a bigger fire hazard. Yes, they do have fire-retardant coating but that will only resist fire to a certain degree. When they do burn, they emit large amounts of highly toxic smoke.

And let’s not forget that a lot of artificial trees come pre-lit and have faulty foot-pedal controllers which overheat. On top of that pre-lit artificial Christmas trees can cause fires and even turn into a shock hazard due to exposed wiring or cords which aren’t plugged in all the way.

To avoid this from happening we advise you to stay away from pre-lit artificial trees and just add the lights yourself to a plain, fake Christmas tree.

Are real Christmas trees susceptible to fire?

As long as you take proper care of your real Christmas tree, it will be much less likely to cause harm due to fire. Here are some tips on how to reduce the risk of your real tree going up in flames.

1. When buying a tree, choose a fresh one with a deep, bright colour. Avoid dry or browning trees.
2. If the tree was pre-cut, remove about an inch from the trunk and place the tree in water.
3. Keep the tree fresh by watering it regularly.
4. A real tree will always drop some needles, no matter how well you take care of it. Make sure to sweep up any fallen needles.
5. Avoid overloading electrical sockets and go easy on the Christmas lights.
6. Switch the tree lights off at night before going to bed.
7. Do not place the tree near heat sources or open fires.

Real vs. fake Christmas tree final thoughts

Artificial trees may be more convenient, but they are less eco-friendly due to plastic materials and production emissions. Real trees, especially when recycled, can be a greener option.

Both real and artificial trees have environmental implications. Real trees, when sourced sustainably, can have a lower impact and are compostable. Artificial trees, while reusable, contribute to plastic waste and emissions. A real tree, grown locally, might have a smaller carbon footprint than an artificial one, especially if the latter is discarded after only a few years.

After taking everything into consideration, we support and recommend the use of real Christmas trees. Not only are they better for the environment, but they also carry a sense of nostalgia and perfectly embody the Christmas spirit.

Wonder what’s the price of a real tree? Read our post on how much does a real Christmas tree cost.

In need of a Christmas tree?

To make this holiday season less stressful, Fantastic Services offers a Christmas tree delivery and installation service. You can book a full service, including installation and even disposal after the holidays, or just have the tree delivered. A team of professionals will carry out the delivery and tree setup.

Once the holidays have passed, you need not worry about what to do with your evergreen. The team can collect the tree for you and recycle it.

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Did we miss anything? Do you have any tips for choosing a Christmas tree? Let us know in the comments below or give us a shout on social media!

Image source: shutterstock / kryzhov