SEASONAL STORAGE TIPS
Sort seasonal clothing into “keep” and “donate”. Making this cut may be difficult but it minimizes clutter and waste of storage space.
Check for anything that needs repair and separate into a “repair basket” (loose buttons, undone hems, etc.). It’s best to handle these fixes now so they’ll be ready to go when the wearing season rolls around.
Check pockets for anything that might be left in them (coins that can rust, paper, etc.)
Sort items by method of cleaning (dry clean and washables). Cleaning items is a must to limit moths and other pests from damaging them.
Remember, bugs are attracted to food stains, dead skin cells, perfume and other things invisible to the naked eye.
Put each type into its own bag or bin so you can integrate them into your laundry cycle or take to your dry cleaner.
For items that you may not clean each season (e.g. leather jackets) be sure to do a
spot clean and air out thoroughly before storage.
Prepare the storage area for your seasonal items. Whether you have a separate closet or keep them folded in bags and boxes, here are some things to remember:
Make sure the container can close tightly but are naturally ventilated (cotton or canvas are preferable)
Do not store in extreme heat or damp for long term.
Do not keep items in dry cleaning bags. These are cheaply made and the PVC gases they release, while deteriorating, may harm delicate fibers.
Items you may need to organize your storage area:
Sort seasonal clothing into “keep” and “donate”. Making this cut may be difficult but it minimizes clutter and waste of storage space.
Check for anything that needs repair and separate into a “repair basket” (loose buttons, undone hems, etc.). It’s best to handle these fixes now so they’ll be ready to go when the wearing season rolls around.
Check pockets for anything that might be left in them (coins that can rust, paper, etc.)
Sort items by method of cleaning (dry clean and washables). Cleaning items is a must to limit moths and other pests from damaging them.
Remember, bugs are attracted to food stains, dead skin cells, perfume and other things invisible to the naked eye.
Put each type into its own bag or bin so you can integrate them into your laundry cycle or take to your dry cleaner.
For items that you may not clean each season (e.g. leather jackets) be sure to do a
spot clean and air out thoroughly before storage.
Prepare the storage area for your seasonal items. Whether you have a separate closet or keep them folded in bags and boxes, here are some things to remember:
Make sure the container can close tightly but are naturally ventilated (cotton or canvas are preferable)
Do not store in extreme heat or damp for long term.
Do not keep items in dry cleaning bags. These are cheaply made and the PVC gases they release, while deteriorating, may harm delicate fibers.
Items you may need to organize your storage area:
- Flat bags for foldable items (sweaters, scarves, etc.).
- Hanging bags for suits and jackets
- Moth balls and cedar chips
- Labels and markers (if you store items in non-visible containers)
- Tissue paper for wrapping around items that can easily snag
- Spot cleaner for leather, suede or canvas items
- Tissue paper for wrapping items that can snag