How to Properly Store Clothing in Your Storage Unit

Feeling tight on closet space?

A storage unit is a great option for housing seasonal coats, inherited pieces, even costumes. But before you go stuffing things into boxes, check out these tips for properly storing your clothes so you can ensure they stay in the same condition you left them in.

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. Make sure every item is completely dry before storing – even the slightest bit of dampness can lead to mold and mildew growth.

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 coats, suits, and dresses inside a cotton (never plastic) garment bag. Space out all hanging clothing to allow for airflow. This will reduce the risk of mildew and mold as well as prevent wrinkling and creasing. Take note that special materials, like furs, need to be stored under specific conditions to be maintained. Also, consider what type of hangers you use:

• Metal hangers can rust and corrode, leaving stains on your items while also leaving hard-to-remove wrinkles if items are left to hand for a long time.
• Plastic hangers are generally fine, but can break under heavier garments and grow brittle with time.
• Padded hangers are a safe, but slightly more expensive alternative that won’t wrinkle your clothes.
• Wooden hangers are very sturdy to heavy coats and other items, and their sloped design creates more air circulation between garments. However, they are more expensive, take up more space and can be susceptible to moisture.

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 are preferred for storing clothing as they 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: 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.

Step 5: A Pleasant Environment

Moisture is another hazard to be aware of when it comes to storing your clothes. It can encourage mold and mildew growth, which can destroy natural fabrics like wool and cotton while also leaving stains and unpleasant odors on synthetic materials. Temperature fluctuations from changing weather also change moisture levels, which is why it is always best to store your clothes in a climate-controlled storage unit. Not only does the constant temperature keep humidity in check, it also promotes air circulation, which is also important for maintaining garments. You also want to avoid an environment with direct sunlight, which can promote fading and material deterioration. Another point in favor of storage units.

At Storage Post, we offer a range of unit sizes, from small lockers to extra-large units, so no matter how much of a shopaholic you might be, we’ve got the extra wardrobe space you need. Our clean, temperature-controlled units are the perfect home for your wardrobe. Call or stop by one of our facilities today!