How To Store Your Clothes in Storage

Storing clothes in a unit requires proper cleaning, organizing, and protection to keep them in top condition. Whether you’re putting away seasonal clothes or need extra space for a move, this guide will walk you through the essentials. Movivan provide removal and storage in London and we know how important is to carefully prepare every items that goes inside the storage unit. Based on our almost 10 years we have created a helpful post about how to prepare and store your clothes.

Preparing Clothes for Storage

Clean and Dry Your Clothes

Before packing anything, start by washing and drying all your clothes thoroughly. Any dirt or sweat left on fabrics can lead to stains or attract pests over time. Make sure to follow care instructions for each item, as some may need special attention. Clean clothes are less likely to attract bugs and odors, keeping them fresh for when you need them next.

Pro Tip: Even if your clothes look clean, wash them to remove any traces of deodorant or perfume, as these can cause stains over time.

Polish Boots and Shoes

If you’re also storing shoes, give them the same level of care. Polish and clean each pair, especially leather ones, which can crack and dry out. Adding a little oil to leather shoes can help keep them supple and reduce the risk of damage. Stuffing boots and shoes with tissue paper can help them retain their shape.

Declutter Before Storing

Sort Out What to Keep and What to Let Go

Take this opportunity to declutter and part with clothes you don’t need anymore. Ask yourself if you’ve worn each item in the past year or if it’s still in good shape. Create three piles: one to keep and store, one to donate or give away, and one to discard. By storing only what you actually value and use, you’ll save space and have an easier time organizing.

Repair Any Damaged Items

Before packing, repair any clothes with small issues like missing buttons or minor tears. It’s easier to fix these things now rather than later, and your future self will thank you when you retrieve items in good condition, ready to wear.

Movivan Removals can protect and store your appliances.

Choose the Right Storage Containers

Avoid Vacuum Bags for Natural Fibers

While vacuum storage bags can be handy, they’re not ideal for long-term storage of clothes made from natural fibers like wool, silk, and cotton. Vacuum sealing removes air, which these fibers need to maintain their shape. For synthetic materials, short-term vacuum sealing can work, but for long-term storage, avoid it to keep fabrics from getting compressed or losing shape.

Use Clear Plastic Boxes with Lids

Instead of cardboard or plastic bags, use clear plastic boxes with snap-on lids. These containers protect your clothes from humidity and pests and allow you to easily see what’s inside. Stackable plastic crates save space and keep clothes safe from water damage, which is a risk with cardboard boxes.

Pro Tip: If you’re reusing boxes that once held food, clean them thoroughly to remove any traces of food, which could attract pests.

Consider Wardrobe Boxes for Hanging Clothes

For delicate items or clothing that’s best stored hanging, consider using wardrobe boxes. These tall boxes come with a rail so you can hang clothes like dresses and suits without folding them. Use wooden or padded hangers to prevent stretching or damaging the fabric. Avoid metal hangers, which can rust and damage clothing over time.

Proper Packing Techniques

Layer Heavier Items at the Bottom

When packing clothes, place heavier items like jackets and sweaters at the bottom of each box and layer lighter, more delicate items on top. This keeps lighter fabrics from getting crushed and wrinkled.

Roll Clothes Instead of Folding

Rolling clothes instead of folding them can save space and reduce wrinkles. This method is particularly useful for items prone to creasing. Don’t overstuff the containers, as your clothes still need room to “breathe” and stay in shape.

Check also: How to label moving boxes?

Pest Prevention

Use Moth Repellents

Pests like moths and other insects can cause a lot of damage to clothes, especially items made of natural fibers. Place moth repellents such as mothballs, cedar chips, or lavender sachets in your storage containers to keep pests away. Cedar blocks work well and have a pleasant scent, making them a good alternative if you don’t like the smell of mothballs.

Pro Tip: Moths are attracted to dirt, so keeping your clothes clean before storage is one of the best ways to protect them from pests.

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Protect Clothes from Moisture and Sunlight

Use Moisture Absorbers

Moisture is one of the biggest threats to clothes in storage, as it can lead to mold and mildew. To keep humidity at bay, add moisture-absorbing products like silica gel packets to your containers. These products can help maintain a dry environment and protect fabrics from dampness.

Store in a Dark, Cool, Dry Place

Ideally, store your clothes in a space that is cool, dark, and dry. Direct sunlight can fade colors, and excessive heat or humidity can cause damage. If possible, choose a climate-controlled storage unit that keeps temperatures and humidity levels stable.

Label and Organize for Easy Access

Label Each Container

Labeling each container by season or clothing type (e.g., “Winter Coats,” “Summer Tops”) will make it much easier to find what you need later. An organized system saves time and prevents frustration when you’re searching for a specific item.

Create an Inventory

If you’re storing a lot of clothes, an inventory can be incredibly helpful. List each item in a notebook or a digital spreadsheet so you know exactly what’s in each box. This way, you won’t have to open every container to find one particular item.

Conclusion

Storing clothes in a storage unit is simple with the right approach. By carefully preparing, packing, and organizing your items, you’ll keep them safe, fresh, and ready for their next wear. Whether you’re decluttering, rotating your seasonal wardrobe, or preparing for a move, following these steps will protect your clothing and ensure it stays in excellent condition. Happy storing!