With the transition of seasons, most of us are switching from our winter clothes to spring fabric. However, the question is, where does one store their thick fabric attire if there is no room in your closet to fold and put them away until next year? In this scenario, the best storage solution for you is keeping your clothes in a safe secure storage facility to save you the space and the mess in your closet. Facilities such as ours at Yellowhead Storage are equipped for long-storage items such as clothes, and we have the right tips for you to sustain that wrinkle-free fabric and ensure your clothes stay fresh and protected until your next meet.
Clean Clothes Before Storage
Always clean your clothes before storing them. Dirt, oils, and unseen stains can settle into fabrics over time, making them harder to clean later and potentially attracting pests. Ensure clothes are completely dry before packing to prevent mildew growth.
Use the Right Containers
For long-term storage, avoid plastic bags, which can trap moisture and cause fabric yellowing or mildew. Instead, opt for breathable fabric garment bags for hanging items like dresses and suits. Use acid-free boxes for folded garments to prevent fabric degradation. For an extra layer of protection, wrap clothes in acid-free tissue paper before boxing.
Proper Folding Techniques
Folding clothes properly can minimize wrinkles and save space. Use tissue paper or cardboard between layers to prevent creasing. Roll items like t-shirts and knitwear to avoid fold lines. For delicate or prone-to-wrinkle fabrics, consider storing them on hangers inside a garment bag.
Avoid Overpacking
Overpacking boxes or storage bins can lead to permanent creases and damage to your garments. Allow enough room in each container to avoid compressing the clothes, ensuring fabrics can breathe and maintain their shape.
Strategic Placement
Store heavier items at the bottom of your storage unit and lighter, more delicate items on top. This prevents heavier items from compressing and wrinkling lighter fabrics. Hanging racks can be a great investment for storage units, allowing for air circulation around garments and keeping them in ready-to-wear condition.
Lavender Sachets and Cedar Balls
To keep your storage unit smelling fresh and to deter pests, consider adding lavender sachets or cedar balls to your containers. These natural solutions protect against moths and add a pleasant scent without damaging fabrics.
Regular Checks
Even with the best preparations, checking on your stored items periodically is a good idea. This allows you to catch any potential issues early, like signs of moisture, pests, or unwanted odours, and take corrective action.
Next time you plan to store your clothes for the long term take into account these tips, you can rest assured that your garments will remain in excellent condition, ready for when you need them next. Remember, the key to wrinkle-free storage is not just in how you pack it but also where you store it.
