Everyone knows that the holidays aren't complete unless you hang up festive stockings on the mantel. Stockings are just as important as the tree and the presents. But what if you don't have a mantel? In that case, a stocking holder provides the perfect way to hang your stockings. In fact, even if you do have a mantel, you may want to use a stocking holder anyway to prevent chipping the paint or otherwise damaging your setup. A good stocking holder is sturdy, durable, and able to hold fully loaded stockings. And of course, you'll undoubtedly want a holder that adds a touch of holiday whimsy and cheer to your home. Here are a few of the best ones on the market, grouped by category. Boao Stocking Holders Have a Holly Jolly SeasonIn terms of quality, color, and durability, these Boao Stocking Holders are the best on all counts.Best OverallFind on Amazon With Boao Stocking Holders, you’ll never have to worry about your stockings slipping off the mantel, cabinet, or wherever you have them hanging. That’s because these holders are the definition of sturdy. They’re crafted from a top-quality alloy that’s strong enough to hold up to 10 pounds. And, they don’t require nails or screws, so you don’t have to worry about your furniture getting scratched up or damaged in any way. Available in bronze and black, these stocking holders boast a refined style that looks good in every home. Pros: Made from a top-grade alloy that’s sturdy and durable enough to hold up to 10 pounds. No nails or screws required, so won’t leave behind scratch marks. Attractive, elegant design. Available in bronze and black. Cons: The price is a tad steep. Haute Decor Mantle Clip Stocking Holders Deck the Halls (With Lots of Stockings)It's hard not to be in a cheery mood with these super-cute stocking holders from Haute Decor.Best Decorative Find on Amazon It’s the most wonderful time of the year, which means it’s time to stock up on Haute Decor Mantle Clip Stocking Holders. Opt for one of several holiday-specific designs, including reindeer, snowflakes, snowmen, and more. The set includes both the stocking holders and the decorative icons, which easily attach to the front of each holder. These holders are lightweight, although they hold up to 10 pounds, and they’re also fully adjustable and able to fit most mantel ledges from 1.5 to 3 inches thick. Pros: Come with decorative icons that are available in a variety of holiday designs. Holders are lightweight but still hold up to 10 pounds. Fully adjustable and able to fit most mantel ledges. Don’t take up much storage space. Cons: A little tricky to put in place at first. URATOT 4-Piece Stocking Holders Simple, Elegant, and Oh-So-FestiveSometimes, simplicity is best. That's definitely the case with these stocking holders from URATOT.Best Simple DesignFind on Amazon Touting a sleek silver finish, URATOT Stocking Holders are simple, practical, and perfect for hanging stockings of all shapes and sizes. Available in a set of four, these holders have a sturdy metal hook with a silver-plated surface that’s designed to last for several seasons. The affordable price point doesn’t hurt, either. All in all, if you’re on the hunt for a chic, simple stocking holder, it’s tough to beat these URATOT holders. Pros: Design is simple and practical, yet elegant. Made of a silver-plated surface that’s very durable and sturdy. Accessible price point. Cons: Needs a little more curve on the bottom the hold the stocking in the ideal position. Elf Logic Stocking Holder Best for Over-Stuffed StockingsIf you know you'll be stuffing your stockings with tons of goodies this year, these Elf Logic holders are the ones to get. Best HeavyweightFind on Amazon Hey, let’s face it: some of us tend to overdo it when it comes to the stocking stuffers. There’s no shame in doing so, but in that case, you’ll need to invest in stocking holders that can hold a significant amount of weight. Enter the Elf Logic Stocking Holders, which are extra-strength mantle clips that hold well up to 10 pounds. The holders’ simple, classic design won’t overpower your mantel and other furniture; in fact, each mantle hook lays flat and blends in nicely with virtually any decor. Best of all, these holders are kid-friendly. Pros: Extra-strong; able to hold well up to 10 pounds. Simple, classic design that doesn’t overpower your other decor. Cons: It would be nice if these came in other colors. Topbuti Stocking Holder No More Sliding Off the MantelIf you're worried about little hands tugging at their stockings, it's best to get non-slip holders like these from Topbuti. Best Non-SlipFind on Amazon When it’s time to open presents, chances are that the kiddos will be, shall we say, on the excited side – as in, ready to rip into boxes and tug their stockings off the mantel faster than the speed of light. Avoid any potential mishaps with the Topbuti Stocking Holders, which are designed with non-slip features to ensure they stay in place. Plus, these holders are lightweight, not easily corroded, and highly durable. Pros: Bottom of the disk has a specialized non-slip design. Materials are non-slip and not easily corroded. Lightweight and sleek. Cons: They’re not the best for heavy stockings. Frequently Asked Questions What is a stocking holder? If you don’t have a mantel or other place to hang your stockings, a stocking holder provides a place to hang them. Basically, it’s like a coat rack, but for stockings. What should I look for in a good stocking holder? Apart from picking out the design you want, there are a few key criteria to look for in a good stocking holder. Namely, you want holders that are extremely sturdy and able to stay in place no matter how much tugging is going on (a sure bet with kids). Avoid anything too fragile, flimsy, or made from cheap plastic. What material should I get if my stockings are heavy? If your stockings tend to be on the overstuffed side, look for a holder made from a heavy-duty material like metal.