Tips for Storing Clothes for the Long Term

As the seasons change and we transition from winter to summer wardrobes, organizing your clothes for long-term storage might feel like a daunting task. Instead of tossing everything into the back of your wardrobe, take a little time to properly store your clothes. With the right tools and mindset, it becomes a manageable task that protects your garments from damage and makes it easier when it’s time to swap out your seasonal items again.

Clean Clothes Are a Must for Long-Term Storage

The first and most crucial step in storing your clothes properly is ensuring they are clean. Simply putting away clothes without checking if they’re clean won’t cut it. Clothes moths are highly sensitive to even the smallest traces of sweat, skin oils, or food particles. They are particularly drawn to keratin, the protein found in these substances. Even the faintest trace of these particles will attract moths, so it’s vital to clean your clothes thoroughly before storing them.

For delicate fabrics like silk or knitwear, consider having your clothes professionally dry cleaned at the end of the season. Dry cleaning ensures your garments are cleaned to perfection, and the chemicals used can help deter moths. Ignoring stains can also be risky. What may appear as a small, invisible stain when you store your clothing can turn into a permanent mark over time. Oxidation can cause stains to appear much more prominently, making them difficult to remove once they’ve set.

Choosing the Right Storage for Your Clothes

Once your clothes are clean, the next challenge is selecting the proper storage options. Dust is a common culprit in attracting moths and promoting mold growth. To avoid this, use protective covers for your clothes to keep dust at bay. Since dust is made up of skin cells, keeping it off your garments is an easy way to prevent it from attracting pests. Additionally, dust can retain moisture, which may cause mold to form.

Storage for Coats, Suits, and Hanging Items

For garments like coats and suits that need to be hung to maintain their shape, invest in a high-quality garment bag. Our Non-Woven Garment Bags are perfect for this purpose, featuring a velcro fastening at the neck to prevent gaps where moths could sneak in. We also offer White Cotton Garment Storage Bags, which can hold up to eight garments and offer an additional level of protection. Avoid using plastic dry cleaning bags, as they trap moisture and can promote mold growth.

Storing Chunky Knits, T-Shirts, and Folded Items

For items that can be folded, such as knits and t-shirts, our Knitwear & T-Shirt Bags are ideal. These breathable bags accommodate a few chunky knits or several delicate items. They come with a sturdy zip to keep the clothes protected while still allowing them to breathe. To make the most of the space, use a folding palette for neat, space-efficient folds.

Storing Large Items like Hats, Dresses, and Shoes

For larger items such as hats, wedding dresses, or shoes, use roomy storage boxes. These boxes are especially helpful for long-term storage, providing ample space and protection from dust, moisture, and pests. You can also use acid-free tissue paper between layers of clothing to prevent creases from weakening the fabric over time. Be sure to use pH-neutral tissue paper to avoid color transfer or damage. Never use standard tissue paper or cardboard boxes, as they contain acids that can harm your clothes.

Where to Store Clothes for the Long Term

While storage space may be limited, it’s important to choose the right location. Avoid areas with temperature fluctuations, such as attics, as they can encourage the development of moisture and mold. Ideally, your storage area should be cool, dry, and dark. Check on your stored items every six months to ensure they’re still in good condition, and consider storing clothes in a more accessible location to make these checkups easier.

Protecting Clothes from Moths

One of the main reasons to store clothes correctly is to prevent clothes moths from infesting your garments. Before storing your freshly cleaned and carefully packed clothes, vacuum the storage area thoroughly. Moths dislike strong scents, so using fragrance as a deterrent can also help protect your garments. Consider placing natural moth repellents in your storage bags or boxes to keep your clothes safe from these pesky invaders.

By following these tips for cleaning, packing, and storing your clothes, you can ensure that your garments remain in great condition, ready for use when the season changes again. With a little effort upfront, you’ll save time and effort when it’s time to switch up your wardrobe.