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Opinion is divided on whether artificial Christmas trees are better than real trees and vice versa. But what is happening is a leaning towards fake trees as buyers realize the benefits offered by these manufactured products. It's true, real trees look, well, real. But artificial trees have come a long way from the plastic look they were known for years before. They've become safer too especially the ones manufactured in countries where strict regulations are put in place. So talk about the plastics used leaching chemicals is basically false because manufacturers are trying to sell their wares. They wouldn't be able to do this if it were true. As for artificial trees not looking the same as real trees, only a close look will reveal them to be fake. What's more important is that real trees can trigger allergies in some people and pets. In fact, natural wood attracts pests and mold so unless a careful check is made prior to purchasing real trees, you might end up with sensitive family members witnessing allergic rhinitis and even asthma symptoms. The biggest argument made by proponents of real trees is that artificial ones are non-biodegradable and only add to landfill waste. This may be true but most of the household products we use today are made of the same plastic (PVC) so the argument is moot. Moreover, a single artificial tree can last for 15 years without warping and proper care, not a quality shared by real trees which have to be discarded or used as wood chips post Christmas season. What about cost? Real trees are much cheaper because they degrade. And more times than most, even advocates of their use will admit that it's difficult finding a lush, dense tree. Artificial trees can cost several hundred dollars which is expensive, undoubtedly, but the returns greatly cut down their long-term cost. Not to mention, they don't produce sap and shed needles which are a pain to clean and cost money too if carpets and floors get stained and need to be cleaned. Another argument posed by opponents of artificial trees is difficulty assembling them. This couldn't be further from the truth. Manufacturers today have made fake trees increasingly easy to set up. The time taken to cut a real tree, haul it, transport it and get it into the house is more than that taken by an artificial one. Depending on configuration, it takes anywhere between half an hour to an hour to assemble it. You don't have to worry about the tree becoming bare from falling needles either. Since there are currently no large-scale recycling programs for artificial trees, reusing them after they wear out their usefulness can do a lot of good. Donating them, repurposing them into decorative items etc are suggestions. And if you're still worried about the environmental impact they make, consider these points: When purchasing an artificial tree, look for those made locally. They'll conform to stricter manufacturing standards and don't need to be shipped internationally which is a big waste of fuel. Once you buy a tree, take care of it with regular dusting and the occasional deep cleaning in spring or summer. Don't use a cleaning agent, just cold water sprayed with a hose. These simple tips will increase the life of artificial trees to last for up to a decade. If you are looking for fiber optic and artificial Christmas trees, Christmas lights, wreaths, garlands and an extensive range of decorations including tinsel then Westminster Christmas is the best place to be. For more details visit their website westminsterchristmas.com.au.
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