With the changing seasons comes more than just a temperature change. For most of us, there is a direct change in wardrobe.
If you’ve ever struggled to find more space in your clothes closet when storing off-season clothes, you’re not alone. Here are some tips to use before and during storage.
Assess Your Wardrobe
Now is an excellent time to evaluate your off-season wardrobe by storing a clothing item or accessory. Have you worn it during the season? If not, ask yourself if you’re holding a wardrobe item for sentimental or other reasons.
Often people can’t find enough storage space because they are keeping unused and unwanted clothing for various reasons. Now is the time to consider donating or recycling items. Goodwill Industries of Southeastern Wisconsin is a great place to start.
Launder
Unclean clothes can deteriorate while spending time in storage because body oils or dirt on clothing can attract moths, creating an odor that’s next to impossible to remove as the months go by.
When storing off-season clothes, not only do you need to ensure that your clothes won’t get damaged by dampness and mildew, but you also need to keep them smelling fresh!
Eliminate Odors
There are various ways that you can store your off-season clothes so that they remain odor-free during storage. Start by using baking soda or deodorizers to eliminate odors.
- Put the item in a bowl or suitably sized container with baking soda and leave overnight.
- Leave the lid off to let the smell out and if you want to be extra safe, put it in an area with good air circulation.
- Alternatively, a few drops of lavender or dryer sheets tucked into a container will go a long way.
Hang or Fold?
Typically, one should fold fabric constructed from natural fiber. Consider folding the following:
- Sweaters: Fold and place in plastic bins or storage bags, resisting the temptation to cram a lot of sweaters into one container, as mildew can form.
- Coats: While many people hang their winter coats, it’s best to fold them so they can keep their shape.
- Delicates: These items almost always get folded, wrapped in acid-free tissue paper, and stored in cotton garment bags.
- Shorts and T-shirts: It’s okay to either fold or hang lightweight garments. However, folding the items optimizes the amount of space you have.
- Shoes: When packing shoes, use tissue inside them so they can hold their shape.
Extra Closet Space
If you’re short on closet space, several options exist. You can add more shelves, hang a rod or use a wardrobe. A shelving system is an excellent option since it offers flexibility and easy access in a small space. Another option is a closet organizer or storage system that includes everything from hooks and hangers to shelves and bins.
Use Plastic Storage Bins
- Big box stores sell containers, as well as Amazon and Container Store.
- Stow clothing inside sealed plastic totes to prevent water damage and other mishaps.
- Choose transparent rather than opaque bins as you can see what you’re storing and grab an item if you’re in a hurry.
- Label and group similar clothes together, using a label to organize each bin by type (coats, sweaters, lightweight garments, and accessories).
Storage Authority provides 24/7 self-storage room access so you can retrieve your goods when it’s convenient for you. We know homeowners often struggle to find available storage for clothes, accessories, or other valuable items. Our storage units and moving products go a long way in providing peace of mind to our customers. Visit our website, contact us, or call us at 262-676-9464.