When it comes to storing clothes, it is very important that you store them properly. Proper storage will stop your clothes from being damaged by outside forces such as damp or moths. It will allow your clothes to stay in a good condition, increasing the longevity of each item. 

In order to store clothes properly, you need to consider where you plan to store them, what you plan to store them and you need to do some essentials before placing them into storage. 

Within this article we are going to talk you through our nine essential tips for storing clothes, in particular long-term clothes storage.

Understanding the Basics of Long-Term Clothes Storage

Long term storage is typically defined as the use of any type of storage space for anything more than 3 months. Long term storage is often used by businesses storing stock and equipment but it does also have many domestic uses such as storing clothes, in particular storing seasonal clothing. 

Before you begin storing your clothes, you need to consider what types of items you are going to be storing, if there are certain items you will need before others and how much space you will need for your clothes storage.

1: Clean Clothes Before Storage

Before you store your clothes, you must first clean them. Food stains are sometimes not visible but they are there and, if they are left on your clothes, insects and pests will be attracted and could easily damage your clothes. Also, if left, stains can darken and mark the fabric. 

2: Choose the Right Storage Containers

It is important that you choose the right storage container for the clothing items you have. 

If you have a lot of clothing made from natural fibres, you will want to avoid using vacuum bags for these. Vacuum bags are made from plastic and plastic can cause natural fibres, such as wool or silk, to lose shape. 

A much better option are plastic boxes. Plastic boxes will keep your clothes clean and dry, safe from pests and will keep the shape of all your clothes. You must pick boxes with airtight lids though so that your clothes remain dry and free from mould or mildew. 

For items you want to hang on a rack, fabric garment bags are an excellent option. They will keep your clothes clean and safe from pests whilst preventing any moisture getting in.

3: Use Acid-Free Tissue Paper

When putting delicate or expensive items into storage, it is a good idea to wrap them up in acid-free tissue paper. Acid-free tissue paper is pH neutral so it helps to ensure that the dyes in your fabrics will not transfer or react to the paper itself.

4: Avoid Plastic Dry-Cleaning Bags

As we have already mentioned, when it comes to storing clothes you want to avoid plastic vacuum bags but you should avoid all plastic bags, including dry-cleaning bags. 

Plastic dry-cleaning bags (or plastic bags of any sort) can trap moisture within them which will make your clothes damp. This will encourage the growth of mould or mildew on your clothing. 

5: Control the Climate

Wherever you plan to store your clothes, you will want to pick somewhere that has a climate which is right for the clothing. 

The best level of humidity for storing clothes is 30% to 50%. It shouldn’t be too moist because the materials traditionally used for clothing and shoes like cotton, linen, leather, and canvas are easily degraded by water. A way to prevent humidity being an issue is to use garment bags and airtight boxes as this will keep your clothes away from any changes in moisture. 

When it comes to temperature, a mild temperature is best, somewhere between 13°C and 27°C. Large swings in temperature may cause condensation that leads to mould growth and should be avoided if possible.

6: Store Clothes in a Dark, Dry Place

Along with making sure the place you store your clothes is dry, you will also want to choose somewhere that is dark, or that can be dark most of the time. Consistent light of any type will eventually bleach the dyes that make clothes vibrant. 

7: Give Clothes Room to Breathe

Whether you are using airtight boxes or hanging items in garment bags, it is important that you give your clothes room to breathe. It will ensure air circulation which will help to prevent damage and will create an environment that is less attractive to moths.

8: Regularly Inspect Your Stored Clothes

Whether you store your clothes somewhere in your house or you utilise a local self storage company, you will want to make regular checks of your stored clothes. This will allow you to identify any issues early, helping you to quickly address them so your clothes are protected from damage. 

9: Utilise Self Storage

When it comes to storing clothes, it is a good idea to consider using self storage. Self storage will give you the space you need to properly store your clothing. It will also keep your clothes clean, dry and away from any consistent light, all which is imperative when it comes to storing clothes. 

At Cinch Self Storage, we have a variety of cost-effective storage units available to rent. Each of our units come with a flexible rental agreement and is fitted with state-of-the-art security features. Please head to our website to find your local store. 

Secure Your Wardrobe’s Future with These Long-Term Storage Tips

Storing clothes for the long-term needs some care and effort in order to make sure the clothes remain undamaged. You must clean all your clothes before storing them and you must pick the right containers to store them within. It is important that you choose a storage solution that is dry and dark. And make sure to wrap any delicate items in acid-free tissue paper. 

For effective long term clothing storage it is very important that you take our tips on board and do them to the best of your ability and price range. You will be so happy you took the time and effort to do this when you get your pristine clothes out of storage.