Renting a storage unit is a great way to free up space in your home or apartment. Many people use storage units to store off-season clothing and other items they don’t need regular access to. But can you actually hang clothes in a storage unit?
Quick Answer
Generally, yes you can hang clothes in a storage unit, but there are some things to keep in mind. Not all storage units are designed for hanging clothes. Make sure to choose a climate-controlled unit with high enough ceilings to accommodate clothing racks or poles. Consider potential issues like moisture, pests, and theft when storing clothes long-term. Use precautions like sealing clothes in bags or bins and locking valuables in a safe.
Can You Put a Clothing Rack in a Storage Unit?
Putting a clothing rack or pole in a storage unit is one of the best ways to hang clothes and maximize your storage space. Here are some tips for installing clothing storage in a unit:
- Choose a climate-controlled unit – This will protect clothes against moisture, mold, and pests
- Look for high ceilings – You’ll need at least 8 ft ceilings to accommodate a rack
- Install a sturdy pole or rack – Metal or wood works better than plastic
- Anchor to the walls securely – Use brackets or bolts into studs for safety
- Leave space around the rack – Make sure you can access all areas of the unit
- Use bins or shelving too – Racks alone don’t maximize all the space
A clothing rack allows you to efficiently double your hanging storage. Just make sure the design accounts for the unit’s size and layout.
What Kind of Clothes Should You Store?
Certain types of clothing are better suited for long-term storage in a unit than others. Consider the following when deciding what to hang in your storage unit:
- Off-season clothing – Swap out winter coats for summer dresses
- Infrequently worn items – Formalwear, costumes, specialty outfits
- Outgrown children’s clothes – Save hand-me-downs for younger siblings
- Vintage or delicate items – Protect heirlooms and fragile fabrics
Avoid storing frequently worn everyday clothes in a storage unit. The hassle of accessing the unit makes this impractical. Only store items you won’t need for long periods.
How Should You Hang Clothes in a Unit?
To get the most out of your hanging storage, keep these tips in mind:
- Use sturdy hangers that won’t bend under the weight
- Face all hangers in the same direction for easy viewing
- Group items by type – dresses together, coats together
- Wrap cleaned clothes in garment bags or plastic
- For long-term storage, enclose clothes in bins or trunks to protect from dust
Neatly organizing your clothes makes it simpler to swap out seasonal wardrobe items. It also helps protect fabrics when clothes are packed closely together on a rack.
What Are the Best Ways to Store Clothes in a Unit?
Aside from hanging garments, you can maximize clothing storage in other ways:
- Fold off-season clothes in space-saving vacuum storage bags
- Pack clothes neatly in plastic bins or trunks to guard against pests and dust
- Use clothing organizers or shelving to store folded clothes, shoes, and accessories
- Hang specialty clothing like uniforms, costumes, or delicate fabrics
- Use locker-style stackable storage for folded sweaters, jeans, and more
Combining different storage methods provides ample room for an entire seasonal wardrobe. Just remember to label all containers so you can easily find items.
What Are the Downsides to Storing Clothes in a Unit?
While storage units provide useful extra space, there are some potential downsides for clothing storage:
- Inconvenient access – You have to travel to the facility to swap clothing items
- Possibility of pests or mold – Extreme heat/cold, leaks, and bugs can damage fabrics
- Risk of theft – Storage units can be targets for break-ins
- Limited climate control – Most units aren’t temperature/humidity regulated
- Lost or misplaced items – Disorganization makes clothes hard to find
With some preventative steps, you can avoid most of these pitfalls. Storing clothes correctly is key to protecting your garments.
Are Storage Units Safe for Clothes?
Storage units can safely store clothing and other household goods with the right precautions. Here are some tips for safe clothes storage:
- Select a reputable storage facility with 24/7 security monitoring
- Choose a climate-controlled unit to prevent mold and pests
- Use plastic bins or garment bags to protect fabrics
- Insure your belongings in case of damage or theft
- Avoid storing valuables like luxury goods or heirlooms
- Install a lock on your unit for an extra layer of security
With climate control and reputable facilities, storage units can be very safe options. But take precautions with valuable or irreplaceable textiles.
Are Storage Units Good for Storing Clothes Long-Term?
It’s fine to store clothes in storage units long-term as long as you take preventative steps against damage. Here are some tips:
- Choose a climate-controlled unit to prevent mold and pests
- Use dust-proof storage containers like plastic bins
- Store clothes clean and dry to avoid mildew
- Use cedar blocks or sachets to repel insects
- Hang delicate fabrics on padded hangers to prevent snags
- Periodically check clothes for pest/water damage
With a dry, climate-regulated unit and dustproof storage, clothes can remain in good shape for years. Just monitor conditions and swap out wardrobes seasonally.
What Should You Not Store in a Storage Unit?
Some items aren’t recommended for storage units. Avoid storing:
- Valuables like jewelry, cash, or documents
- Perishable goods like food or plants
- Flammable materials like paint or gasoline
- Personal mementos with high sentimental value
- Medications or medical equipment
- Irreplaceable heirlooms or antiques
Theft, damage, or climate can put these items at risk. If you must store them, consider alternatives like safe deposit boxes or professional artifact storage.
Tips for Storing Clothes in a Storage Unit
Follow these top tips to safely store clothing in a storage unit:
- Seal clothes in airtight plastic bins or garment bags
- Use cedar blocks/sachets to deter pests without harming fabrics
- Install lighting inside the unit to easily see items
- Place delicate fabrics on padded hangers to prevent snags
- Label all containers and organize systematically
- Regularly check clothes for water damage, mold, or pests
With some simple precautions, you can comfortably store off-season wardrobes, special occasion outfits, or delicate heirlooms.
Conclusion
Storing extra clothing in a storage unit is a great way to free up space at home. As long as you choose a high-ceilinged climate controlled unit, install proper storage racks/poles, and take steps to protect fabrics, clothes can safely be stored. Use garment bags, plastic bins, and cedar to guard against pests, dust, and theft. With the right storage methods, you can keep clothes in excellent condition until you are ready to wear them again.
