Why is storing seasonal clothes properly important?
As the seasons change throughout the year, most people switch out their wardrobes to better suit the current weather. Storing the clothes you aren’t currently wearing can help them last longer and stay in good condition until next season. Proper storage can protect your seasonal clothes from damage from insects, dust, mildew, and more. It also keeps them organized and easy to access when the time comes to get them back out. Investing some time in proper seasonal clothing storage helps protect your investment in fashion.
When is the best time to switch seasonal wardrobes?
The ideal times to rotate your seasonal clothing are at the beginning of each new season. For example:
- Spring: March/April
- Summer: June
- Fall: September
- Winter: December
Of course, the exact timing depends on your local climate. Some good rules of thumb are to switch to lighter clothes as soon as overnight temperatures stay above 55°F (13°C) and to heavier clothes once overnight lows are regularly below 45°F (7°C).
The changing of the seasons is gradual, so you don’t need to pack up everything in one weekend. Slowly start working new season apparel into your wardrobe and phase out last season’s over several weeks.
How should you inspect clothes before storage?
Before packing up garments for seasonal storage, it’s important to properly inspect each item. Give everything a thorough check for:
- Stains: Pretreat any new stains before storing.
- Odors: Wash or air out smelly clothes.
- Damage: Mend any new tears, holes, broken zippers etc. Sew back on any loose buttons or snaps.
- Pests: Check for any signs of insect/moth damage and address prior to storage.
- Needed repairs: Fix any issues and launder the garment before packing away.
Addressing problems at this stage keeps them from worsening during storage and ensures clothes will be fresh and ready to wear next season.
What’s the best way to clean clothes pre-storage?
For most clothes, giving them a wash or dry clean before storage helps refresh garments and remove odors, stains, and dirt. Here are some tips:
- Read care labels – Launder according to garment instructions.
- Pretreat stains – Use a targeted stain remover prior to washing.
- Check pockets – Empty any tissues, receipts etc. to prevent ink stains.
- Do final repairs – Replace buttons, mend tears etc. before cleaning.
- Wash darks separately – Avoid dye transfer issues.
- Select proper cycle – Delicates on gentle, sturdy clothes on normal.
- Use mild detergent – Harsh chemicals can damage clothes over time.
- Air or machine dry – Line drying can minimize wear and tear.
Proper cleaning extends the life of your seasonal garments. For dry clean-only pieces, drop them off at the tailor right before switching wardrobes.
What storage methods work best for seasonal clothes?
There are several options for neat, effective seasonal clothing storage:
Garment Bags
Large garment bags can hold multiple out-of-season clothes. Look for thick, breathable materials like canvas or mesh. Use individual garment bags inside for delicate items. Hang bags in closets or store flat under beds.
Vacuum Storage Bags
Vacuum bags use your vacuum cleaner to suck out excess air and compress contents. This saves a lot of space and provides airtight protection. Best for bulky items like sweaters and jackets.
Storage Totes/Bins
Plastic storage totes and bins stack neatly to maximize closet and shelf space. Use breathable versions or leave lids partially open. Fold clothes neatly inside. Label bins clearly for easy access.
Hanging Storage
For clothing on hangers, use special garment racks, wardrobes or garment boxes. These allow air to circulate while keeping dust off. Cover with a breathable bag or sheet. Hang in a closet or basement.
Cedar Closets/Chests
Cedar wood naturally repels moths, mildew, and odor. Cedar-lined closets, chests, and shelves make great moth-proof storage spaces for off-season woolens, cashmere, silks etc. The cedar smell also sticks to clothes.
What clothes should be stored hanging vs. folded?
As a general rule:
- Hang: Dresses, suits, coats, jacket, button-downs, delicate fabrics
- Fold: Knits, t-shirts, jeans, pajamas, socks, underwear
Hanging helps maintain the shape of structured garments with shoulder pads or darts. Folding can stretch out delicate fabrics.
Of course, you are limited by the space you have available. If short on hanging room, use space-saving fold methods like file folding for thicker fabrics or traditional folding for delicate pieces.
Are there fabrics you shouldn’t store long term?
Some fabrics are prone to damage when stored folded or hanging for extended periods:
- Rayon – Can stretch out shape when hanging
- Silk – Vulnerable to tearing when folded
- Woolens – Can be attacked by moths
- Spandex/Lycra – May lose elasticity when folded
The best storage for these is in breathable garment bags, cedar closets, or with vacuum compression if space is very limited.
Natural fabrics like cotton, linen, and denim remain durable through seasonal storage. Synthetics like polyester hold their shape well when folded.
How can you prevent moth damage to stored wool and cashmere?
Moths are a common danger for stored natural fiber fabrics. Here are some tips to keep them safe:
- Clean thoroughly before storage – wash or dry clean
- Allow any damp items to fully air dry
- Seal in airtight bags or containers
- Use cedar storage boxes or hang in a cedar closet
- Use mothballs as fumes kill moths and larvae
- Inspect regularly for any signs of holes or caterpillars
- Keep climate controlled – moths thrive in hot, humid areas
Vacuum sealing woolens provides the best protection. Moth traps, cedar blocks, lavender sachets also help deter moths naturally.
What’s the best way to store out-of-season shoes?
For proper shoe storage:
- Clean dirt/debris off soles
- Stuff with paper or shoe forms to hold shape
- Spray with disinfectant to kill bacteria
- Put each pair in breathable shoe bags
- Store on shelves or in stackable plastic bins
- Fill bins with cedar chips to deter moisture and odors
- For fine leather shoes, keep them hydrated with shoe polish or conditioner
- Store boots upright to prevent slouching
Avoid plastic bins or bags that don’t allow ventilation. The paper inside shoes soaks up moisture to prevent warping. Stuffing toes with paper can also help leather shoes retain their shape.
Where are the best places in your home to store seasonal clothing?
Ideally, seasonal clothing storage spaces should be:
- Cool and dry to prevent mold, mildew, and moth/beetle infestations
- Well ventilated to allow air circulation and prevent odor
- Dark to prevent fading from light exposure
- Free of humidity and temperature fluctuations if possible
- Secure from dust buildup, dirt, and pests
Recommended spots include:
- Bedroom closets – Use top shelves or under bed
- Basement – Use waterproof storage bins
- Attic – Keep cool and ventilated
- Spare room closet – Use hanging rods and shelves
- Garage – Store in airtight sealed containers to protect from dirt and moisture
Avoid placing clothing in damp areas prone to mold like crawl spaces. Also keep away from heat sources like hot water tanks or furnace rooms.
Should you use mothballs when storing seasonal clothing?
Mothballs are a controversial option for storing clothing. The pros and cons are:
Pros:
- Strong odor deters moths and kills moth larvae
- Low cost and readily available
- Vapors can permeate closely stacked items
- Long lasting protection when used properly
Cons:
- Unpleasant smell lingers on clothing
- Toxic naphthalene version poses health risks
- Must be used in confined space for vapors to be effective
- Does not kill moth eggs so multiple life cycles can occur
- May irritate eyes, nose and throat
Safer moth repellent alternatives include cedar chips, lavender sachets, and herbal moth blocks. In airtight storage, mothballs can provide added protection. But be sure to air items out thoroughly before wearing.
Should you have any ventilation in seasonal clothing storage areas?
Some ventilation is recommended in storage areas to allow air circulation. Signs of poor air flow include:
- Moldy or musty smells
- Visible moisture accumulation
- Warping, shrinking, or stiffening of fabrics
- Insect damage from moths or carpet beetles
Aim for a balance between ventilation and preventing dust and dirt exposure. Ways to improve air flow include:
- Leaving closet/bin doors partway open
- Using mesh garment bags instead of solid plastic
- Storing clothing in breathable cotton cases or covers
- Placing moisture absorbing crystals in bins/bags
- Using plastic bins with ventilation holes or slits
- Circulating air periodically with a fan
Just avoid excessive direct sunlight, humidity, or wide temperature swings. The ideal is a dark, dry, cool space with some filtered air exchange.
How can you prevent off-season clothes from wrinkling?
Wrinkles form when clothing folds and creases under pressure. To keep seasonal items wrinkle-free:
- Pre-treat with fabric softener or conditioner
- Hang delicate fabrics to avoid fold lines
- Fold bulky knits and denim neatly along seams
- Refold periodically if storing a long time
- Use breathable storage materials like cotton and mesh
- Place acid-free tissue between folds
- Smooth fabrics before closing storage container
- Remove from storage 1-2 days before wearing to let wrinkles fall out
Most wrinkles can be steamed out with an iron or garment steamer. For structured items prone to creasing like suits and dresses, hang in a garment bag versus folding.
How often should you rotate seasonal clothing back out?
As a general guideline, plan to rotate your seasonal wardrobe twice per year – once at the beginning of each major season (Spring/Summer and Fall/Winter). The benefits include:
- Ensuring clothes don’t go too long without being worn/aired out
- Catching any signs of damage like mold, moth holes or yellowing
- Uncovering any items in need of cleaning or repairs
- Pulling out items you forgot you owned
- Preventing too much wrinkling or creasing of fabrics
- Keeping your wardrobe organized and clutter-free
Of course, some people switch out clothes more often based on unpredictable or fluctuating weather. The goal is to find a system that works for your climate and lifestyle. Checking contents twice a year is a good place to start.
Conclusion
Properly storing out-of-season clothing helps protect your investment, saves space, and keeps your wardrobe organized and accessible year-round. By cleaning and assessing garments before storage, using appropriate storage methods for each fabric type, and storing in optimal areas, you can keep off-season clothing in great shape for the next time you need it. Investing a little time in proper storage techniques pays off in the long run with a wardrobe that transitions seamlessly across the seasons.
