Cozy Mantels

Once the cold settles into the Twin Cities, a homeowner’s fireplace instantly becomes the coziest part of the whole home. And because it’s naturally the focal point, the mantel is the perfect place to add festive charm. But while a decorated mantel looks beautiful for the holidays, it’s easy for certain pieces to sit a little too close to the heat. With a few simple reminders, you can style your mantel exactly how you want it without worrying about safety.

Start With Greenery (the Safe Way)

Garland makes everything feel instantly seasonal, whether you prefer a simple faux pine strand or a fuller garland with accents. No matter what you pick, keeping it safely positioned is the big thing. Greenery should sit on top of the mantel, not draped downward or anywhere that could hover near the fireplace opening. Even flame-resistant garlands shouldn’t hang low.

Once you get the look you like, make sure it’s secured. Heat can shift lightweight pieces over time, and you don’t want anything moving toward the fire.

Think Strategically About Stockings

Stockings are classic, but they can be a problem when the fireplace is actually on. Fabric heats quickly, and it doesn’t take much for it to become unsafe. Luckily, there are plenty of easy alternatives:

• Stocking holders or weighted clips
• Small pegs on the side of the mantel
• Hooks mounted to a nearby wall
• Built-ins or baskets to hold stockings temporarily

If you do keep stockings on the mantel for display, always remember to remove them any time the fireplace is in use.

Add Soft Lighting

If you love a bit of sparkle during the holidays, lighting is the easiest way to get it. LED string lights, battery candles, or pre-lit garlands add that glow without creating extra heat. Some options even come with gentle twinkle settings, which make them feel extra cozy in the evenings. Just be sure cords aren’t tucked anywhere near the fire, and avoid bulbs that warm up when they’re on.

Use Decorations That Hold Up to Heat

Once greenery and lighting are in place, you can layer in your personal touches. Heat-safe materials work best on mantels, like:

• Ceramic trees or figurines
• Metal accents
• Thick glass pieces
• Stone or concrete details

These look great and won’t soften, melt, or shift if the fireplace runs often.

Give Everything a Quick Safety Check

Before lighting the fireplace, take a minute to scan the setup:

• Nothing hangs down toward the fire
• All décor sits back from the edge
• Screens or glass doors are closed to catch sparks
• No loose pieces that could shift forward

A quick pass ensures everything stays as safe as it is festive.

Trust the Fireplace Experts at Twin City Fireplace

With long Minnesota winters, your fireplace works hard during the holiday season. If you haven’t had your annual cleaning, inspection, or service yet, now’s the perfect time to schedule one. Twin City Fireplace is here to help keep your system running all winter safely so you can enjoy all the cozy nights ahead.