Is your closet overflowing with bulky sweaters or summer clothes? Don't worry—we're here to guide you through the best ways to store seasonal clothes, all while maximizing space and minimizing wrinkles.
Wash or dry clean clothing before you pack it away. (Always check the label for care instructions; it can vary greatly depending on the type of clothing.) This removes sweat, body oils, and food stains that attract pests and cause discoloration. Invest in some cedar sachets or mothballs for natural pest control. Bonus points for airing out clothes in the sun to kill lingering bacteria and freshen them up!
Folding: Ideal for sweaters, t-shirts, scarves, tank tops, and other casual wear. Carefully fold or roll garments to prevent wrinkles, then place them in the appropriate containers.
Hanging: Best for delicate fabrics (think cashmere and wool), formal wear, thick winter clothes, and wrinkle-prone pieces. Ditch the wire hangers and invest in sturdy ones suitable to the garment's weight and shoulder width. Utilize closet space efficiently with double rods or hanging organizers.
Now it's time to pick the best storage solution for your garments. A few clothes storage ideas include:
Plastic Storage Boxes and Totes: While these are affordable and versatile, they can also trap moisture and cause mildew, so add a dehumidifier to prevent this. You can also opt for breathable fabric bins or vented plastic bins. Under-bed storage bins are also a good option.
Vacuum Storage Bags: Great for maximizing space and reducing bulk, but unsuitable for delicate fabrics or leather. Avoid overstuffing and re-inflate these plastic bags periodically to prevent creases. Adding a lavender sachet will help keep your garments smelling great.
Suitcases: Repurpose unused luggage for out-of-season clothes. Mothballs or cedar blocks recommended for long-term storage.
Hanging Garment Bags: For clothing items that need to hung up, choose a hanging bag that staves off pests and keeps your garments dust-free. There are also great for items fresh from the dry cleaners.
Long-Term and Archival Storage: For antique and keepsake garments, we recommend acid-free archival storage boxes. Most than just ordinary cardboard boxes, they're designed to prevent yellowing and deterioration when storing items long-term.
Store seasonal clothes in a cool, dry, dark place such as a spare bedroom, attic, or basement (as long as these places aren't damp). Direct sunlight can cause clothing to fade, so avoid this if possible.
This area should also be easily accessible. After all, you don't want to misplace your winter coat when next year's cold front comes!
Clearly label your storage containers with the season and contents (e.g., "Summer Tops & Dresses"). This saves you the frantic rummaging come next season's wardrobe switch.
Remember: Storing seasonal clothing isn't just about decluttering, it's about preserving your beloved garments and saving precious space. With these handy tips and a little organizing magic, you can embrace the changing seasons without wardrobe chaos erupting in your closet!
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