How to Properly Store Clothing in Your Storage Unit

Clothes hanging up in a closet

A storage unit can house all your extra outfits and out of season clothes, but how you pack these items will likely determine if you find your clothing in the same condition when you unpack it as when you first put it in storage.

Step 1: Start Clean

Launder or dry-clean all clothing before placing it in storage, even if it looks clean. Clothing that contains perfumes, lotions, oils, and/or perspiration can cause fabrics to stain and yellow. Even if there are no current visible stains, clothing that has been worn will contain traces of bacteria and organic materials that will attract insects and pests.

Step 2: What to Fold and What to Hang

Fold: Sweaters, delicates, and most coats (wool, leather, faux fur, or down) should be stored folded in a plastic or cotton storage bin. Neatly fold your sweaters and loosely stack the lightest sweaters on top of your heavier sweaters. Carefully fold silk, organza, or cashmere delicates and wrap them in acid-free tissue paper before placing them in a bin. Remove all items from coat pockets and fasten all snaps, buttons, and zippers before folding and gently stacking. Allow air to circulate and your items to breathe by not overstuffing your containers.

Hang: Hang furs and dresses inside a cotton (never plastic) garment bag. Space all hanging clothing to allow for air flow. This will reduce the risk of mildew and mold as well as prevent wrinkling and creasing. Furs need to be maintained at a constant 50˚F temperature with 50% humidity. Talk to your self storage specialist to verify that your unit can accommodate these special needs.

Step 3: Boxing and Labeling

Plastic vacuum-sealed bags dry out your garments and acidic cardboard boxes contain glue that is attractive to pests and insects. Lidded plastic storage containers allow non-delicate items like t-shirts, jeans, wool sweaters, or polyester to breathe; aren’t attractive to pests; and won’t damage the clothing’s fibers. Label containers with as much detail as possible to help you identify the contents later.

Step 4: Add Mothballs to keep out Clothes Moths

Mothballs can help protect clothes made from natural fibers, but be very careful when using them. Mothballs kill moth larvae with chemical fumes, so they should be used only in sealed containers and not placed directly on stored clothing. Also, do not wear clothing immediately after it has been stored with mothballs. Instead of mothballs, consider using less toxic lavender sachets or cedar blocks, shavings, balls, or oil to keep your clothes pest free and fresh smelling.

Clothing is best stored in a clean, cool, dark, and dry place to prevent fading, mildewing, and attracting insects. That’s why you should store your clothes with Storage Post. Our clean, temperature controlled units are the perfect home for your wardrobe. Call or stop by one of our facilities today!