Set Up a “Please Take One” Sign (and Keep an Eye Out)

If you’re not planning to answer the door every time someone comes by, setting out a “Please Take One” sign is the easiest way to keep things organized. But, let’s be real—some trick-or-treaters might be tempted to grab a handful. To keep things under control, keep an eye on the candy stash from a window or camera. Just a little supervision can help prevent candy disasters.

To make the “Please Take One” sign more effective, make it fun or funny, like “The ghosts are watching…” or “Beware the candy curse for greedy hands!” It adds a touch of Halloween magic and might actually make kids think twice.

Portion the Candy to Last All Night

There’s always that initial Halloween rush where kids swarm your house, and the candy can disappear faster than you expect. Rather than putting all your candy out at once, try setting out small batches at a time. This way, you can control how much gets taken in those early hours, and you’re less likely to run out before the night is over.

Stash some backup candy for late-night trick-or-treaters who might come after the rush. That way, you’re covered, and no one leaves disappointed.

Make Your Candy Station Spooky and Fun

If you’re setting up a candy bowl outside, make the area festive with a few decorations. Add a skeleton hand reaching out of the bowl, place some creepy LED lights around, or include a small pumpkin with a friendly face to add some character. Not only will it set the mood, but it’ll make the candy station fun for kids to approach (and hopefully give them a reason to just take one).

Use fake cobwebs, mini pumpkins, or a motion-activated Halloween decoration that makes sounds when someone approaches. Kids will love the extra spookiness.

Choose a Sturdy Bowl (and Make It Heavy!)

There’s always that one kid who tries to pick up the whole bowl, so save yourself the hassle by using a large, sturdy bowl for candy. Pick something with weight to it or anchor it down with a few rocks at the bottom. That way, it won’t tip over or “accidentally” get taken with the first enthusiastic trick-or-treater.

If you don’t want to leave your good bowls outside, check dollar stores or thrift shops for cheap, sturdy options you don’t mind leaving out. A heavy pumpkin or cauldron-style bowl works great!

Keep Extra Candy Close By for Easy Refills

Nothing’s worse than realizing the candy bowl is empty and having to run inside to refill it while trick-or-treaters are already approaching. Keep a stash of backup candy right by the door or on a nearby table so you can quickly refill without abandoning your post (or leaving an empty bowl!).

If you’re planning on staying inside, place the candy in easy-to-grab bags for faster refills. Small treat bags also make it easier to portion out candy to avoid running low.