5 Rules For Packing and Storing Your Seasonal Clothing
Unless you have a large walk-in closet that fits all of your clothing, you probably like to store your seasonal clothing. In the spring and summer months, it is likely never cold enough for all those winter coats and boots, while in the winter the last thing you want to wear is a swimsuit or pair of shorts. It helps to have a good storage place that is dark and cold to keep your clothes from attracting pests and mould, such as a self-storage unit. Before you pack and store your clothing, follow these essential rules.
1. Know How to Store Certain Materials
The first rule with packing and storing clothing is understanding a little about the materials. Some materials require being stored flat while others should be rolled. Knowing about the materials will allow you to protect your clothing and keep it from damage. For example, anything that is silk should be packed and stored completely flat. Fur is better in a cool, dark place and covered with white muslin. With your leather and suede, make sure there is enough ventilation.
2. Always Wash Clothing Beforehand
Even if your seasonal clothing is in a drawer or closet, wash it one more time just before you pack it up. You need to make sure there is no dust on the clothing, so if it hasn't been worn in a while, washing is highly recommended. This also lets you get rid of any remaining stains, which can darken while they are stored for long periods of time. Taking everything to the cleaners is often easier than trying to do it yourself.
3. Store With Wooden Cedar
People used to use mothballs to keep insects from destroying their clothing, but these aren't always effective and you won't enjoy the smell once you retrieve your clothing. However, if you are concerned about insects and other damage, you can instead get natural wooden cedar balls. Add these to the containers of clothing and they should work much better. Store them in between muslin or other materials and not actually on the clothing.
4. Get a Climate-Controlled Storage Unit
If you are storing your clothing in a self-storage unit, choose one with climate control. This really is the best thing you can do for your clothing, plus it lets you store other items that also require you to keep the humidity low. Clothing needs a cool place, so keeping the temperature on the lower side and controlling the humidity will save you from mouldy or damaged clothing. It also helps to keep critters out.
5. Store Clothing in Plastic Storage Bins
Avoid packing your clothing in cardboard boxes and never leave them in plastic bags. They will likely be ruined by the time you go to retrieve them. Instead, get some plastic storage bins with lids and place your clothing in there. For anything that needs to be hung, get garment bags that will protect the clothing, then bring in a portable closet to the storage unit to hang them.
Make sure that you take into account all necessary packaging supplies instead of simply relying on what you have around the home as the wrong packaging could lead to ruined items.
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