How to keep clothes fresh in storage

Storing clothes, whether it’s seasonal wear, special occasion outfits, or vintage pieces, requires more than just tucking them away in a closet or storage unit. 

The key to keeping them fresh and ready to wear involves proper preparation, storage techniques, and ongoing maintenance. This article will guide you through the essential steps to ensure your stored clothes remain in pristine condition.

Preparing Clothes for Storage

The first step in storing clothes is to ensure they are clean. Wash or dry clean all items before storage, as invisible stains from body oils, perfumes, or food can set in over time and become difficult to remove. This also reduces the likelihood of attracting pests.

After cleaning, thoroughly dry your clothes. Storing damp items can lead to mould and mildew growth, which can damage the fabric and leave an unpleasant odour.

Choosing the Right Storage Containers

The choice of storage container is crucial in preserving the quality of your clothes. Avoid plastic bags or containers, as they can trap moisture and encourage mould growth. 

Instead, opt for breathable materials like canvas storage bags or acid-free cardboard boxes. For delicate items such as wedding dresses or heirloom pieces, consider investing in garment bags or acid-free tissue paper for additional protection.

Proper Folding and Hanging

How you fold or hang clothes can also impact their condition in storage. Knitwear and stretchy fabrics should be folded to prevent stretching or distortion. Use padded hangers for items that need to be hung, like structured jackets or dresses, to maintain their shape.

Using Desiccants and Moth Repellents

To combat moisture and pests, consider using desiccants like silica gel packets in your storage containers. These can help absorb any excess moisture in the air. For moth prevention, natural repellents like cedar blocks or lavender sachets are effective and leave a pleasant scent. Avoid using mothballs, as they can leave a strong odour and are toxic.

Ideal Storage Conditions

The location and environment where you store your clothes are as important as how you prepare them. Choose a cool, dry, and dark space to prevent fading and keep the temperature and humidity levels stable. Basements and attics can fluctuate in temperature and humidity, so they might not always be the best choice.

Regular Maintenance Checks

Periodically check on your stored clothes, especially if they are kept for an extended period. This allows you to spot any potential issues like pest infestation or moisture buildup early on. During these checks, airing out the clothes can also help prevent musty odours from developing.

What containers should you use before putting clothing in a unit?

When selecting storage containers for clothes, it’s crucial to pick options that protect the garments from dust, moisture, and pests while allowing adequate air circulation. Canvas storage bags are a versatile choice for a variety of clothing, including seasonal items like winter coats or summer dresses, due to their breathability and ability to prevent moisture buildup. For more delicate garments, such as wedding dresses or vintage attire, acid-free cardboard boxes are recommended as they prevent yellowing and fabric degradation over time.

Fabric storage bins are another great option, especially for folded items like sweaters, jeans, and t-shirts. They offer the necessary airflow while keeping clothes organized and easily accessible. For clothes that need to be hung, such as suits, dresses, and blouses, breathable garment bags are ideal as they safeguard against dust and pests and help to prevent wrinkling.

While vacuum-sealed bags can be very effective for saving space and are suitable for short-term storage or bulky items like quilts and puffy jackets, they are not the best choice for long-term storage due to the lack of air circulation. It’s also important to steer clear of plastic containers or bags for extended storage periods, as they can trap moisture, potentially leading to mould growth.

For extremely delicate or valuable pieces, investing in speciality storage solutions like archival boxes with acid-free tissue paper might be a prudent decision. Regardless of the storage method chosen, ensuring that the clothes are clean and completely dry before storage is key. Regular inspections of stored clothes for any signs of moisture or pest infestation will also help in maintaining their condition over time.

If you would like to store your clothes to make more room in the home for other items, we offer affordable self-storage in London.  Click here to learn more about how affordable our storage is.