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The 15 Best Stocking Holders of 2023 for Your Holiday Celebrations

Spruce up your fireplace mantel with these festive stocking holders.

The West Elm Present Bow Stocking Holder on a green patterned background.

Better Homes & Gardens / Marcus Millan

Whether you already have a keepsake stocking for the Christmas season or are looking for a new one to adorn your mantel with, having a stocking holder is just as important. Without this seemingly small piece, your stocking may not have the support and stability it needs to welcome and surprise you with its many little treasures. 

“Stocking holders are for spaces without a designated hanging nook,” says Jeanette Reza, designer and founder of JIU JIE. “It's like a magical pop-up hook, turning any flat surface, like a shelf, into a festive showcase for your stocking.”

To find the best stocking holders, we based on a variety of factors including the type of wool they’re made from, their size and weight, and care instructions. We also consulted Reza for expert insight on what to look for when shopping for the best stocking holder to hold and display any kind of festive stocking this holiday season.

Best Overall

Haute Decor Gold Original Stocking Holders

Amazon Haute Decor Gold Original Stocking Holders

Amazon

Why You Should Get It
  • They’re available in five finishes.

Keep in Mind
  • They’re assorted so you can’t get a set of the same shape.

We love the Haute Decor Gold Original Stocking Holders as our top overall choice for their sturdy clip style, finish options, and festive shape. This set includes four traditional Christmas icons: a snowflake, snowman, reindeer, and pine tree. Since they’re available in gold, silver, brass, bronze, and pewter, you can find the right tones for any holiday aesthetic. 

Each stocking clip can hold up to 10 pounds and the width can be adjusted based on the thickness of your fireplace mantel or shelf. The clip style also ensures a bit more security in comparison to balance weights, especially when it comes to young children and pets. 

Although this assorted set is not available in the same icon, we like the whimsical variety and overall quality and durability of these stocking holders.

Product Details: Material: Steel | Weight: 0.19 pounds each | Stocking Capacity: 10 pounds

Best Budget

365park Christmas Stocking Holders

Amazon 365park Christmas Stocking Holders

Amazon

Why You Should Get It
  • They come in packs of six and are non-slip, so they won’t damage your mantel.

Keep in Mind
  • They’re not as decorative as other options.

We recommend the 365park Christmas Stocking Holders as some of the best stocking holders because they’re offered in a set of six and can hold up to ten pounds each.

Simply place the non-slip spongy bottom side of the disc, which prevents scratches, on your mantel or shelf and let the hook hang inward. The hooks can be rotated to fit your space, but the overall shape of these holders is suitable for most mantels. 

While we love the elegant and minimal look of these stocking holders, it’s important to note that these are not as decorative as other options and are only available in gold and silver. Still, we think they work perfectly for displaying all kinds of stockings.

Product Details:  Material: Zinc alloy | Weight: Not listed | Stocking Capacity: One

Best Splurge

Bohemia Goods Antlers Stocking Holders

Etsy Bohemia Goods Antlers Stocking Holders

Etsy

Why You Should Get It
  • It adds a rustic touch to your mantel and also serves as a decorative element.

Keep in Mind
  • Multiple stockings may bunch up on one antler.

If you’re looking to invest in a stocking holder as a piece of decor that you can even leave up once Christmas has ended, the Bohemia Goods Antlers Stocking Holders are the ones for you. This set comes with a pair of metal antlers with a flat base to give your fireplace mantel a rustic and cozy cabin look. 

Since each holder has several antlers, you can place multiple stockings on each; however, they can bunch up if they’re too close together. If you’re only hanging a couple of stockings, these will look festive and sophisticated all winter long.

While this pair of stocking holders is an investment, we like that it can serve as a decorative element in your home even when the holidays end. 

Product Details: Material: Metal | Weight: 1.75 pounds | Stocking Capacity: Four (per holder)

Best Snowflake

Eugenie 2 Snowflake Stocking Holder

Etsy Eugenie 2 Snowflake Stocking Holder

Etsy

Why You Should Get It
  • Each snowflake has a detailed and intricate design.

Keep in Mind
  • Each holder is sold separately and there is a delivery fee depending on how many you purchase.

Snowflakes are a quintessential winter symbol so if you can’t get enough of them this Christmas, opt for the Eugenie 2 Snowflake Stocking Holder. Each snowflake has a unique and intricate design, which also makes the stocking holder a great holiday gift for a loved one.

These handmade stocking holders will add some sparkle and magic to your fireplace mantel or any other flat surface where you decide to hang your stockings. We especially like that the flat base on each holder has a coat of shimmering glitter, adding an additional festive element. 

Keep in mind that each holder is sold separately and there is a $5.25 shipping fee. However, if you purchase three or more stocking holders (or spend at least $35 at the shop on other decor as well), you’ll qualify for free shipping. 

Product Details: Material: White iron | Weight: One pound | Stocking Capacity: Not listed

Best Tree

West Elm Bottlebrush Tree Stocking Holder

West Elm Bottlebrush Tree Multi Hook Stocking Holder

West Elm

Why You Should Get It
  • It features a variety of bottlebrush trees in different sizes and colors.

Keep in Mind
  • It’s one unit, so you’ll need space to put it.

The West Elm Bottlebrush Tree Multi Hook Stocking Holder is both fireplace mantel decor and hooks for your family’s stockings, making it one of the best stocking holder options. The holder features bottlebrush trees of different sizes and colors, offering the look of a forest wherever you place it. 

This pick is a single unit with four hooks, which offers uniform spacing between each stocking. It’s larger than some other options, so you’ll need the space to display it. However, it sits neatly and flat on your mantel so you can also use the multiple hooks to hang a garland, twinkling lights, or a wreath. 

Product Details: Material: Wood, sisal, and tin | Weight: Not listed | Stocking Capacity: Four

Best Reindeer

Wondershop Metal Reindeer Stocking Holders

Target Wondershop Metal Reindeer Stocking Holders

Target

Why You Should Get It
  • It comes in a set of four different reindeer, so it sets a scene on your mantel.

Keep in Mind
  • Each stocking can only hold up to two pounds.

Whether your kids are currently obsessed with Rudolph, or you just have an affinity for these majestic creatures, the Wondershop Metal Reindeer Stocking Holders belong on your mantel this Christmas. 

This set comes with four separate holders on flat metal bases, including a reindeer buck, a reindeer doe, and two reindeer fawns. These are available in gold, silver, and black so you can choose whichever one matches your holiday style best. 

Although each holder can only support up to two pounds, we think it’s enough weight for stockings filled with some candy and small trinkets as opposed to those stuffed with larger gifts. We also think they’re a great value, especially if you use these for the next couple of Christmases. 

Product Details: Material: Metal | Weight: 1.1 pounds | Stocking Capacity: One

Best Brass

West Elm Present Bow Stocking Holder

West Elm Present Bow Stocking Holder

West Elm

Why You Should Get It
  • They’re available as individuals, a set of two, or a set of four.

Keep in Mind
  • The folded bow parts can be challenging to clean.

Reza prefers metal, particularly brass, stocking holders like this one for their durability, stability, and festive golden hue. A brass stocking holder, like this option from West Elm, is a great way to add a luxe touch to your holiday decor.

This stocking holder is shaped in the classic star gift bow tha graces the tops of many Christmas presents, and has a brilliant antique brass finish that will pop on your mantel. It’s important to keep in mind, though, that the folds of the bow can be a bit of a challenge to clean thoroughly. 

Though many options are only offered as a set, we like that in addition to sets of two or four, you can also purchase this stocking holder individually as well. Whether you’re gifting the holder or you just need one more for your home, the option is sure to come in handy. 

Product Details: Material: Metal | Weight: 2.2 pounds | Stocking Capacity: One

Best Black

CB2 Black Marble Stocking Holder

CB2 Tasha Square Black Marble Stocking Holder

CB2

Why You Should Get It
  • The variation in the marble means each one is unique.

Keep in Mind
  • They’re sold individually and more expensive than other options.

If you’re looking to deviate from the traditional Christmas aesthetic and are searching for more contemporary pieces this holiday season, you’ll love the CB2 Tasha Square Black Marble Stocking Holder.

Available in both black and white, each stocking holder is a chic and modern block of Marquina marble with contrast veining variations, meaning each stocking holder will be unique. 

The black holder in particular will add more luxurious against white and light colored mantels. Its polished look, non-slip silicone feet, and powder coated iron hook make this stocking holder a treasure to be used for many holidays to come. Just keep in mind that this stocking holder is more expensive than other options, and each is sold individually. 

Product Details: Material: Marble | Weight: Not listed | Stocking Capacity: Not listed

Best Silver

Land’s End Classic Christmas Stocking Holder

Land’s End Classic Christmas Stocking Holder

Land’s End

Why You Should Get It
  • The holder is available in 10 designs and can be personalized.

Keep in Mind
  • Since they have a pewter finish, they won’t sparkle as much as silver.

If you prefer more silver hues over gold ones for the holidays, you might love the Land’s End Classic Christmas Stocking Holder. Each holder has a silvery pewter finish with a protective lacquer, and they’re available in 10 classic Christmas designs. 

Whether you like the look of dogs by the fireplace or a classic holiday truck, each one is cast from detailed and handcrafted molds that offer a nostalgic vibe. Each stocking holder can hold up to five pounds and also has slip-resistant foam pads on the bottoms to protect your mantel or other delicate flat surface.

Though we love the festive Christmas designs, our favorite feature might be the personalization option. Though it is an additional cost, you can engrave a single initial, three initials, or one word up to 10 characters, which makes this the perfect Christmas gift for someone special in your life. 

Product Details: Material: Not listed | Weight: Not listed | Stocking Capacity: One

Best Multi-hook

Ballard Designs Essential Stocking Holder

Ballard Designs Essential Stocking Holder

Ballard Designs

Why You Should Get It
  • Hooks can be added and removed from the base.

Keep in Mind
  • Extra hooks are sold separately.

Whether you have a large family and need to hang up several stockings, or just need extra hook space to trail your garland, a multi-hook stocking holder is a must for your mantel. We love the Ballard Designs Essential Stocking Holder that includes five hooks so you can space out your stockings perfectly. 

Unlike other stocking holders, you can add or remove hooks on this option, which are sold separately. Just slide the hooks around in the slot for your desired look. 

The iron base can hold up to 30 pounds and while the base itself does not have any decorations (but is available in black and brass), we like that it’s flat enough to use as a platform for candles, greenery, and other festive trinkets to spruce up your mantel. 

Product Details: Material: Iron | Weight: Not listed | Stocking Capacity: Five

Best with Lights

Balsam Hill Lantern Stocking Holder

Balsam Hill Lantern Stocking Holder

Balsam Hill

Why You Should Get It
  • It has a built-in timer and a removable hook and is offered in three styles.

Keep in Mind
  • It’s pricer than other light up stocking holders.

If you love decorating your fireplace mantel with candles, beautiful Christmas garlands, and a twinkling string of lights, you might also want to add the Balsam Hill Lantern Stocking Holder. This lantern is available in three holiday scenes—a barn, a red truck, and snowy trees—all with pre-lit fairy lights to make each one feel even more magical. 

This stocking holder has a built-in timer so you can leave it on for six hours, and a removable hook so once you’re done with your stocking you can still keep this charming piece on your mantel after Christmas.

Because of its handcrafted nature, each one will have slight variations. Despite the higher price in comparison to other light up stocking holders, we think the overall quality and versatility of this piece is definitely worth it. 

Product Details: Material: Not listed | Weight: Not listed | Stocking Capacity: One

Best Low Profile

Pottery Barn Low Profile Stocking Holder

Pottery Barn Classic Low Profile Stocking Holder

Pottery Barn

Why You Should Get It
  • Each one can hold up to five pounds, which is more than other options.

Keep in Mind
  • There’s a $6 shipping fee.

A fireplace mantel is the ultimate free space to let your imagination and creativity run wild when it comes to decorating for the holidays. If you don’t want your stocking holders to get in the way of that, the Pottery Barn Classic Low Profile Stocking Holder is the one for you. 

The stocking holder, which is offered in either a silver or gold finish, has a minimal design that allows you to add your own decor on top. Since this stocking holder is made of iron, it can hold a total of five pounds. 

The stocking holders are less expensive than other options, keep in mind there is a $6 shipping fee.  Regardless, we felt that if you want a functional yet classically simple and elegant stocking holder, this one will surely make the chaos of Christmas morning a more simple process.

Product Details: Material: Iron | Weight: 2.5 pounds | Stocking Capacity: One

Best for Garland

Williams Sonoma Garland and Stocking Mantle Hanger

Williams Sonoma Garland and Stocking Mantle Hanger

Williams Sonoma

Why You Should Get It
  • Each hanger can hold up to 20 pounds.

Keep in Mind
  • It may not be suitable for all types of mantels.

Although you can drape any garland over your fireplace mantel or shelf, a stocking holder can come in handy to give your garland some extra draping and dimension. The Williams Sonoma Garland and Stocking Mantle Hanger has a dual purpose, so you can use it as either or both. 

This set includes three stocking holders, each of which has two hooks. Each unit can hold up up to 20 pounds of decor, so you can pile on your cedar and wood garlands and a few stockings with ease. 

This stocking and garland holder has rubber pads to prevent scratching, and an adjustable extension rod that allows the hangers to firmly clamp your mantel without nails or weights. However, it’s important to note that this type of clasp may not be suitable for all types of mantels. If you do have the appropriate mantel and want something sturdy enough to hold your garlands and stockings, we think this an excellent choice.

Product Details: Material: Cast iron | Weight: One pound each | Stocking Capacity: One

Best Large Set

Lulu Decor Cast Iron Stocking Holders

Amazon Lulu Decor Cast Iron Stocking Holders

Amazon

Why You Should Get It
  • Each stocking holder is a different color and they’re offered in a variety of set sizes.

Keep in Mind
  • The set of eight can be quite expensive.

Most stocking holders come in sets of two or four so if you want a large set to gift or to have one for each member of your family, we recommend the Lulu Decor Inc Cast Iron Stocking Holders. The stocking holders are offered in a variety of set sizes, with eight stocking holders being the largest. 

Each one of these cast iron stocking holders have a Christmas tree design, each in a different metallic color. While the set of eight is a splurge, we think these may be worth it if you’re looking for a holiday heirloom that is both durable and beautiful, and if you have a large household. 

Whether you want to place these on your fireplace mantel, ends of stairs, or a sturdy shelf, these stocking holders will add a dash of magic that also reflects the personality of each of your family members. 

Product Details: Material: Cast iron | Weight: 2.5 pounds | Stocking Capacity: One

Best Small Set

Watson Boutique Christmas Stocking Holders

Etsy Watson Boutique Christmas Stocking Holders

Etsy

Why You Should Get It
  • They can be personalized, making them a great gift option.

Keep in Mind
  • They’re only available in a silver finish.

If you’re in the market for one stocking holder or just want something small for your small space, we recommend the Watson Boutique Christmas Stocking Holders. Available individually or in a set of four, these stocking holders come in traditional winter designs including an elk, snowman, snowflake, and Christmas tree. 

We like that the compact style features a bottom with a non-slip grip and has a simple yet sturdy hook that can hold up to five pounds. Just note that they’re only available in a silver finish, which may not suit all holiday decor styles. 

Best of all, these stocking holders can be personalized with a name and symbol. There are 16 font types and 24 symbols to choose from, making them a great giftable option. Even if you decide to leave them blank, these small yet mighty stocking holders can hold all your holiday treasures and trinkets all season long. 

Product Details: Material: Zinc alloy | Weight: Not listed | Stocking Capacity: Five pounds

The Bottom Line

Our top choice for the best overall stocking holder is the Haute Decor Gold Original Stocking Holder. We especially love the classic Christmas designs and sturdy clip style, as well as the multiple finish options. 

What to Know About Stocking Holders Before Shopping

Material

One of the most common materials used to make stocking holders is metal, especially brass, steel, and cast iron. These make the stocking holders sturdy enough to stay put on your mantel and support the weight of your stocking. Other materials, such as wood, can also be useful, but  Reza warns against materials like ceramic and glass that are fragile and can pose a risk amidst the holiday excitement. 

“Metal is my favorite material for a stocking holder since it's durable and can support the weight of a fully stuffed stocking, not just an empty one—plus you can choose different finishes to match your decor,” she says. 

Weight & Capacity

According to Reza, a weight capacity of five pounds is the best for most stocking holders especially if your tradition is to fill your Christmas stockings to the brim. However, if you’re only using your stockings for decor or for a few pieces of candy, then you could opt for a weight capacity of about two pounds. 

As far as the weight of the actual stocking holder, Reza recommends something around two pounds so that it’s stable but not heavy enough to cause damage to your mantel or shelf.

Installation and Assembly

Most stocking holders are freestanding weighted bases with a hook, but others can be in the style of a clip or may require some drilling and installation. Whether you’re a renter or just like to put your holiday decor away as soon as Christmas is over, an installation-free stocking holder may be the most convenient option. 

“You want your stocking holder to work smoothly and match the fun and whimsical uniqueness of your holiday decor,” says Reza. “I’d stay away from anything that requires little to no assembly and always note the weight limits so you avoid any mishaps.”

Your Questions, Answered

How much weight can stocking holders hold?

If there is one thing Reza stresses, it’s to “carefully read the label” when shopping for your stocking holder. Metal stocking holders can usually hold a bit more weight, but it’s best to figure out its capacity before testing it out at home.

How much do stocking holders cost?

Prices can certainly vary when it comes to stocking holders. You'll find some singular ones that are as low as $5 or $10, while sets and large ornate holders can cost more than $200. The materials and overall design of the holder can also determine its price.

“There are so many options so I recommend keeping an eye out for the one that fits your budget and goes perfectly with your festive stockings,” says Reza.

Who We Are

This article was written by L. Daniela Alvarez, a contributing writer for Better Homes & Gardens with three years of experience specifically writing lifestyle content and product reviews for a variety of publications. For this article, she spent several hours researching the best stocking holders and reading customer reviews. She also consulted Jeanette Reza, designer and founder of JIU JIE.

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