Even those lucky to have a spacious walk-in closet usually store their winter or off-season clothing. Storing winter clothes and other off-season items creates more space for your current wardrobe. With more space, you can see what’s in your closet and eventually wear those items. Perhaps you are moving, renovating your home, or don’t have the room to store your winter clothes. If so, a storage unit will be ideal for storing winter clothes. Find tips for storing your off-season clothing and keep your clothing looking its best season after season.
Preparation for Storing Clothes in a Storage Unit
When storing your clothing for winter or any off-season, you’ll need to do a bit of prep work to ensure your garments look and smell great when it’s time to wear them again.
- Repair and Clean – Repair any items before washing. If taking clothing to a dry cleaner, they may repair it for you for a small charge. Go through pockets before washing or sending off to the dry cleaners. It’s essential to launder clothing items before putting them into storage. Clothing items that look clean may still contain stains, perfumes, body oils, and odors. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendation for cleaning. When storing winter shoes and bags, follow the same procedure. Clean, polish, and repair shoes and bags before storing.
- Deodorize and Protect – Deodorizing is especially important for shoes and boots. There are lovely smelling sprays and powders; even baking soda is a great option. Sprinkle or spray into boots, shoes, and bags before storage. Nothing is worse than opening up a favorite sweater and seeing tiny little holes created by moths. The use of cedar and herbal scents can help repel moths and other pests. Mothballs are another option, although they should be used as a last resort.
- Fold and Hang – Winter clothing storage should either be folded or hung. Garments that stretch, such as knit skirts and dresses, should be folded.
Additional storage tips:
- Compression or vacuum-sealed bags are a great way to store winter clothing and a space saver too.
- Use a quality garment bag for long-term storage. Plastic dry cleaner garment bags may attract moisture.
- Delicate items and heirloom items are best stored in plastic containers—wrap delicate items in tissue paper.
- When storing sweaters, have the bulkiest on the bottom.
- Use desiccant packs in containers to keep out moisture.
- Label and Record – Use a label maker or create a label yourself for quick identification. If you have many storage boxes, create a numbering system and put all the details in a spreadsheet. Take a photo of the clothing items in the box and tape it to the outside.
- Store and Donate – Now it’s time to take your winter clothing to a storage unit. A temperature controlled unit will be best to keep all your clothing items safe from fluctuating temperatures, humidity, or dry conditions. Store all containers on a pallet to keep items off the direct floor. An alternative is to place items on a tarp or drop cloth. Store boxes and containers away from direct light. Be sure to put all storage containers with labels facing out. After you’ve safely stored your winter clothing, drop off all discarded items at your favorite charity or used clothing store.
Contact Us Today
Storing your winter and offseason clothing will allow you to create space in your home for more seasonally necessary items. Plus, with a closet that is easier to navigate, you’ll be able to enjoy and wear your clothing all season long. Fairfax City Storage has 30 years of experience offering optimized storage units with 24-hour security to keep all your items safe and secure. For inquiries on unit size or general questions, contact us today or give us a call at (703) 978-1200. We can help you with any storage need.