A Complete Guide to Storing Clothes

Clean and Dry Clothes Before Packing

Before storing garments, wash and dry each piece thoroughly. Storing unclean clothing can result in permanent stains, holes from pests, or musty smells. Use the following tips to keep clothes fresh while packed away:

• After several months in a storage container, stains may be difficult or impossible to remove. Wash clothes before putting them away to prevent stains from setting in the fabric fibers. 
• Odors can attract pests like insects or rodents. Launder your clothing before storing it to remove lingering smells.
• Ensure everything is completely dry before packing. Even a little moisture can lead to mold or mildew while your clothes are in storage.
• Run an extra rinse cycle to remove any leftover chemicals that can damage the fabric over time.

Find the Right Clothing Storage Space

Clothing can deteriorate rapidly in the wrong environment. Look for a cool, dry, and well-ventilated space to preserve your pieces. Avoid the following home storage areas that can damage your garments over time:

• Attics
• Basements
• Garages
• Crawl spaces
• Laundry rooms

If your home has limited clothing storage options other than closets or under beds, consider renting a climate-controlled storage unit for extra square footage to store your overflow wardrobe.

Choose the Best Packing Materials for Clothing Storage

Using the right packing materials keeps your clothes free from damage and maintains their quality over time. Consider the following tips to keep your clothes in top condition:

• Avoid airtight containers. Plastic bags and tightly sealed totes may restrict airflow and create condensation. 
• Fabric needs to breathe. While vacuum bags save space, they may damage clothing in storage for too long. 
• Use padded or plastic hangers to help items keep their shape and avoid compression. 
• Avoid metal hangers, which can leave rust stains on fabric during long-term storage.
• Protect your hanging racks with a cotton sheet or cover to remove dirt and dust while allowing air to flow freely.
• Pack your clothes in acid-free archival boxes. These high-quality containers deter pests and don’t contain chemicals that may damage your clothing. 
• Once packed in an acid-free box, place clothes in a ventilated plastic tote for long-term storage.

Keep Your Stored Clothes Pest-Free

Even the most carefully stored fabric can become a home for insects and other pests. Use the following measures to prevent them from invading your clothing:

• Store your clothing in sealed bins.
• Line the top of the bin with cedar balls. These pest repellents offer a pleasant scent of natural wood and won’t damage clothing.
• Ensure all pieces are completely dry before packing.
• Keep the surrounding area free of dust and debris.

Fold Items Properly for Long-Term Storage

Proper packing is essential when placing your clothes into boxes or bins to prevent wrinkles, maximize space, and protect delicate pieces. We recommend these long-term clothing care tips for storage:

• Leave clothes unfolded or minimally folded. Folding can cause permanent creases and wrinkles and can even change how a garment fits. 
• If you must fold the fabric to fit into storage containers, only do so where necessary and avoid hard creases.
• Consider tightly rolling your garments to maximize space and prevent wrinkles.
• For delicate fabrics, such as silk and lace, separate them from other garments by placing a piece of tissue paper between them.
• Visit your clothes regularly to refold them into new positions. Refolding gives the cloth a chance to relax and release existing creases.

Organize Your Clothing Storage for Easy Access

Organization is key when it comes to storing your clothing. Prevent frustration and locate your favorite pieces quickly with the following tips:

• Write up a detailed inventory list. You don’t want to have to sort through dozens of boxes to find your favorite sweater or a dress you need for an event. 
• Organize your bins into categories. For example, keep all winter coats in one box and all tops in another. 
• Clearly label each bin with its contents. 
• Place frequently used clothing at the top or front of your bins for easy access.

Perform Regular Inspections

Once everything is clean, packed, and in storage, it’s easy to forget about it. Don’t leave things in storage for years without regular visits to the facility. A leak, broken door, or other physical issues may destroy your stuff. 

Inspect your stored items at least twice a year using this checklist:

• Look for damp spots or signs of mold and mildew.
• Keep an eye out for moths, silverfish, or other damaging pests.
• Check for discoloration, marks, or strange smells.
• Unfold and inspect collars, cuffs, and pockets.
• Use a small brush to wipe away dust and dirt from the bin exterior.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I always need to use acid-free packing material when storing clothes?

You may not need to invest in acid-free archival boxes for short-term storage or everyday pieces you plan to access frequently. However, you should use the highest-quality packing materials to avoid damage to valuable or sentimental items, such as a hand-stitched quilt, wedding dress, or antique fabrics.

Do I need to rewash clean clothes before storing them?

Even clean clothes can pick up dirt and odors while stored in a dresser or closet. Washing items before packing them is always a good idea to ensure they stay as fresh as possible.

Can I put clothes directly into storage after dry cleaning?

The dry cleaners do not pack your clothing in materials designed for long-term storage. Before storing your garments, take the bag off and check the hanger. If it’s metal, swap it for a more fabric-friendly material.

More Self-Storage Related Resources

• How to Store Halloween Costumes
• Preparing Your Belongings for Long-term Storage
• How to Store Kitchenware
• How to Store Antique Furniture
• How to Store Cigars