Storing Seasonal Clothes: (Basic Tips To Keep Your Clothing Safe)

When the winter snows start to melt away, and the local swimming pool starts making preparations for its busy season, it’s time to pack away our winter clothes. Sweaters, coats, gloves, hats, and thermals are all thrown into the nearest container and tossed into some out of the way place. Or, if we don’t want any nasty surprises next winter, we take the time to store our clothing properly. Follow these tips to ensure the safety of your clothes.

1. Clean all outfits thoroughly before packing. Particles left on items can stain and set into your clothes after several months of storage. Cleaning the clothes also means that insects will be less likely to take up residence in your sweaters.

2. Plastic storage containers can be used for storing clothes, although if any bug larvae are in the clothing, they will have a feast. Cardboard boxes can be used for temporary storage. Make sure you use new clean boxes to avoid staining and insects. Even then be aware that cardboard boxes can attract bugs. One of the best storage containers is an unused suitcase that has been thoroughly cleaned. Line containers with acid free tissue.

3. Be careful with the use of mothballs. Children are naturally attracted to them with deadly results. Another option would be cedar blocks or cedar lined storage. Mothballs and cedar can be effective against insects, but keep in mind that neither is a complete guarantee.

4. Don’t hang sweaters or other knit items that can become misshapen by long term hanging. Instead carefully fold the items and place into the storage container. Stack your folded items from the lightest items on top to the heaviest items on bottom. Stacking items loosely will allow air to still circulate.

5. If you hang items, utilize all of the extra hanging loops to keep the clothing from becoming misshapen. Wrap the clothing in something breathable (i.e. fabric). Make sure the clothing has enough room to breathe. This will keep down the risk of mildew and mold. It will also keep the clothing from wrinkling and creasing during storage. I do not recommend storing clothes in plastic bags. The bags do not allow the clothes to breathe enough.

6. Remember Clean, Cool, Dark, and Dry. Your storage area must be all 4 of these in order to protect your clothing. Clean any area thoroughly before storing. Choose a place that is not likely to be exposed to heat. Avoid areas near heating sources. A dark place will prevent fading and keep the area and clothing cool. Make sure the storage area is dry because wetness will attract mildew and insects.