How To Prepare Your Clothes For Self Storage

Whether you’re storing away your summer wardrobe to make space for winter, or you’re keeping special occasion outfits safe until they’re needed, properly preparing clothes for self-storage is key to keeping them in top condition. At Here Self Storage, we want to help you store your garments the right way so that they come out looking just as good as the day they went in. Follow our detailed guide to ensure your clothes stay fresh, clean, and ready to wear, no matter how long they’re in storage.

Why Proper Clothing Storage Matters

Clothing, like most fabric items, can be susceptible to damage from dust, moisture, insects, and mildew when improperly stored. By taking the time to clean, organise, and pack your clothing carefully, you can avoid common storage-related issues like discoloration, fabric deterioration, or unpleasant odours.

Step-by-Step Guide to Preparing Clothes for Storage

1. Clean Everything First

Before placing any clothes into storage, it’s essential to wash or dry-clean them. Storing dirty clothes, even if they seem clean, can lead to problems down the line. Dirt, sweat, and oils can attract insects, cause fabric to deteriorate, or create lingering odours. For delicate or special occasion items such as wedding dresses or suits, professional cleaning is a must.

• Tip: Avoid using fabric softener when preparing clothes for storage, as it can leave a residue that attracts insects. Ensure clothes are fully dry from washing before putting them away into storage.

2. Sort and Organise

Organising your clothes before storage can save you time and effort when it’s time to retrieve them. Separate your clothes by season or type. For example, pack away winter coats and sweaters in one section and summer dresses and shorts in another. If you’re storing special occasion items like wedding dresses or formal suits, make sure they’re stored separately and with extra care.

• Tip: Label each container or garment bag clearly so you can find items easily when needed.

Storing Seasonal Clothing: Winter and Summer

Winter Items (Coats, Sweaters, Wool)

Winter clothes like coats, wool sweaters, and scarves are usually bulkier and made from heavier materials. Properly storing these items will ensure they stay soft and retain their shape.

• Use vacuum-sealed bags: For bulky items like winter coats, vacuum-sealed bags can help reduce space. However, be cautious when using them for items like wool or down-filled coats, as prolonged compression may flatten or damage delicate fibers.
• Fold or hang appropriately: Knitwear and heavy wool sweaters should be folded neatly to avoid stretching. Use padded hangers for coats and jackets to help maintain their shape.
• Cedar balls or sachets: Add cedar or lavender sachets to deter moths and insects from damaging the fabric. These are natural, sustainable alternatives to harsh chemical mothballs.

Summer Items (Dresses, Shorts, Light Fabrics)

Summer clothes are generally lighter and less bulky, but they still require proper care during storage to avoid wrinkles and damage.

• Plastic bins with tight-fitting lids: Store summer clothes in plastic bins that seal tightly to keep out moisture and insects.
• Roll your clothes: Rolling lighter fabrics, like cotton and linen, helps prevent wrinkles and saves space.
• Avoid plastic bags: Do not store summer clothing in plastic bags for long periods, as they can trap moisture and cause mildew or yellowing over time.

Special Occasion Items: Wedding Dresses and Suits

Storing special occasion outfits requires extra care to ensure that they remain pristine for years to come.

Wedding Dresses

A wedding dress is often the most treasured piece of clothing in someone’s wardrobe, so it’s crucial to prepare it correctly for long-term storage.

• Use an acid-free garment bag: Ordinary plastic garment bags can trap moisture and cause yellowing. Instead, use an acid-free, breathable garment bag.
• Stuff with acid-free tissue paper: Stuff the sleeves and bodice of the dress with acid-free tissue paper to help it maintain its shape. Fold the dress gently with tissue paper in between each fold to prevent creasing.
• Consider professional storage: For valuable wedding dresses, you may also want to consider professional storage options or use a preservation box designed specifically for wedding gowns.

Suits

Suits and tuxedos, often made from delicate fabrics like wool, silk, or linen, need to be stored in a way that preserves their structure and prevents wrinkles.

• Dry clean before storage: Make sure suits are dry-cleaned before storage, as any dirt or oils left on the fabric can cause discoloration over time.
• Use proper hangers: Suits should be hung on wide, sturdy hangers to support the shoulders and maintain the jacket’s shape. Pants can be hung from the waistband to avoid creasing.
• Garment bags: Place the suit in a breathable garment bag to protect it from dust and insects without trapping moisture inside.

Storage Environment Tips

• Climate control: Ensure you are storing your clothes in an environment that doesn’t fluctuate dramatically ion temperature. Extreme temperature fluctuations and humidity can damage clothing over time. A steady, cool environment will help preserve fabrics, especially delicate or vintage items. Indoor self storage units can be a great solution if you don’t have the storage space in your home or garage.
• Avoid overcrowding: Overpacking boxes or containers can lead to wrinkles, misshaping, or damage. Give your clothes space to breathe.
• Elevate your items: If storing in a space that’s prone to dampness, elevate your bins or storage containers off the ground to prevent moisture damage.

By taking the proper steps to clean, organise, and store your clothes in the right environment, you can ensure that your garments remain fresh, clean, and ready to wear no matter how long they stay in storage. Whether you’re storing seasonal items or special occasion outfits, following these guidelines will help protect your investment in your wardrobe.

At Here Self Storage, we offer a range of storage options that are ideal for keeping clothes in top condition. If you need advice on selecting the right unit for your needs or have any other storage questions, feel free to contact us.

Need a storage solution for your clothes? Contact Here Self Storage today to find the perfect storage unit for your needs.