It’s a classic case of Instagram versus reality when it comes to decorating the family Christmas tree. Getting kids involved with the festive tradition seems like a good idea until they’re left with the lopsided bows, tangled lights, and half-decorated tree. Then, all of the goodwill goes out of the window quicker than you can say, ‘Bah humbug!’

This is because eight out of 10 parents admit they sneakily redo their kids’ well-meaning Christmas decoration efforts once they have gone to bed to nail their picture-perfect tree.

New research from discount retailer QD (QualityDiscounts.com) has revealed that while seven out of 10 parents love spending family time decorating their tree, less than a third (27%) allow their kids' decorating efforts to stand pride of place for more than just a few hours.

Over half of British families (57 per cent) are even planning to put up more than one Christmas tree this year, to give kids the chance to be creative on their tree, while leaving the main one to the adults.

The poll found that many parents feel under pressure to make their Christmas decorations Insta-worthy, with one in 10 people revealing they feel pressured to spend more money on festive decorations to achieve a picture-perfect Christmas aesthetic.

This year, QD is encouraging parents to loosen up and find the joy in slightly off-kilter decorations by getting families to proudly share their kids’ decorating efforts with the launch of its The Messier, the Merrier campaign.

With prizes to be won, it aims to let go of perfection and embrace the “messier the merrier” sentiment this Christmas.

“Christmas is about creating joy, laughter, and lasting memories that we cherish year after year, not about having a showroom perfect tree,” Nisha Collins, brand and marketing manager for the QD Group, said.

“This year, we want to encourage families to embrace the imperfections and charm that kids bring to Christmas. We feel a uniquely decorated tree, homemade handmade decorations, cards smothered in glitter or fun festive makes and bakes, are truly at the heart of a memorable festive period!”