How to safely store your winter clothes this summer.

How Self Store & More can help create that much-needed extra space in your wardrobe.

How to safely store your winter clothes this summer.

Are your wardrobes bulging with so many clothes you can’t always find what you’re looking for? Do you seem to only wear half of what’s in there in any given season? Are you returning home from university over summer but don’t fancy taking all of your things? If this is the case, you should consider putting some of your winter clothes (or belongings) in storage during the summer months and vice versa. Sound like a good idea? Here’s everything you need to know about how to store your winter clothes this summer.

If you follow these six steps your clothing will still look as good as new when you take it out again. Here’s how to store clothes in storage the right way!

1. Wash everything
   The first step in packing clothes for storage is to wash them. Carefully inspect each item looking for stains and dirt and make sure they’re removed before storing your clothes.If you pack dirty clothes, chances are any stains or odours on the items will settle in over time and you might never be able to get them out! What’s more, dirty clothes are also more likely to attract insects and other vermin.
2. Don’t vacuum seal
   This step might seem surprising as there is a lot of hype about storing clothes in vacuum-sealed bags as it is a great space saver. However, the truth is, vacuum sealing is only good for your clothes if you’re storing it for a few weeks, not months.If you’re putting your clothes in storage for a couple of months the lack of air inside a vacuum bag can cause the fibres in your clothes to compress, ruining their shape and fit.
3. Pack them in an appropriate plastic container
   The best way to pack your clothes for long-term storage is in a plastic container with a clip-on lid. These will protect your clothes from moisture, dust, mould and mildew. For extra protection, you can line the inside of the container with a clean cotton sheet.
4. Add cedar balls
   When considering how to store clothes in storage, you might be tempted to add mothballs to your storage container, but, as you know, they smell horrible and can be potentially dangerous if found by children or pets. A better option is to use natural cedar balls. Wooden cedar balls are long-lasting, have a pleasant smell and will protect your clothes against pests!
5. Opt for a professional storage unit
   When storing your clothes, a clean, cool, dark and dry storage unit is always best. The easiest way to ensure your storage unit meets all of these requirements is to go with a professional storage company. The facilities they are able to provide are far superior to a damp garage or garden shed when it comes to keeping your clothing safe.
6. Check on your items regularly
   If you are planning to leave clothes in storage for long periods of time – if you are storing baby clothes until you have another child, for example – you should check on the status of your storage boxes every six months or so. This will enable you to detect any potential issues and prevent your clothes from getting ruined.

Ready to store your clothes? 

Now that you know all about packing clothes for storage all that’s left to do is to find a suitable, convenient self-storage unit. Contact us at Self Store & More 7 days a week to find out how we can help. We’ll even come and collect direct from your door to save you time, money and effort.