Storing your out-of-season clothes properly is essential for keeping them in good condition and ready to wear when the season changes. Whether you’re packing away winter coats or summer dresses, following the right steps can prevent damage from pests, moisture, and improper storage methods.
By cleaning your clothes, using the right storage containers, and choosing natural repellents like cedar or aromatic herbs, you can ensure your garments stay fresh and protected.
This guide will walk you through seven essential tips on how to store your seasonal clothes safely and effectively.
Purge unwanted items from your wardrobe
Before you pack away your seasonal clothing, take the opportunity to purge your wardrobe. This is your chance to get rid of items you no longer wear or need. Be selective and only store high-quality, staple pieces that fit well and are still in good condition. This ensures that next season, you’ll be greeted with a wardrobe of clothing you actually want to wear, without having to sift through unnecessary garments.
Aim to reduce your wardrobe by half, keeping only the essentials. Whether you're storing summer clothes like breezy dresses and shorts, or preparing your winter coats for hibernation, always check for damage.
Look out for worn fabrics, missing buttons, broken zippers, or pilling. If a piece is damaged or too outdated, consider donating or recycling it instead of storing it.
Wash and clean your clothes before storage
Cleaning your clothes before storing them is crucial to preventing issues like pest infestations, mildew, and stains. Washing or dry cleaning garments removes sweat, oils, and food residues that can attract insects, such as moths and carpet beetles, which feast on natural fibers.
Use a mild, fragrance-free detergent when washing your clothes, and turn them inside out to protect the fabric. Wash on a cool, gentle cycle to prevent fabric damage over time. For delicates, follow specific care instructions, especially for items like cashmere or silk. After washing, line dry your clothes to avoid shrinking or damaging the fibers. Once dry, fold them neatly and prepare them for storage.
Before packing away, check for any loose buttons, torn hems, or damaged zippers and repair them. By doing so, your items will be ready to wear as soon as the season changes.
Use proper storage containers to separate garments
Choosing the right storage containers can make a big difference in preserving the condition of your clothes. Clear plastic bins are an excellent choice for seasonal storage, as they keep out dust, dirt, and pests while allowing you to easily see the contents. These containers are especially useful for heavier fabrics like wool and cotton, as they provide a sealed environment that deters moths and other insects.
When using plastic bins, make sure not to overstuff them. This prevents delicate fabrics from being crushed and wrinkled. Label each bin with its contents, such as “winter sweaters” or “summer dresses,” so that it’s easy to retrieve what you need when the seasons change.
If you prefer more breathable storage solutions, consider using cloth garment bags or baskets with cedar blocks for natural pest control. Cedar is a great alternative to chemical mothballs, and you can learn more about its benefits in our blog on the benefits of aromatic herbs for natural clothing storage.
Use moth repellents properly for seasonal clothes storage
One of the biggest threats to off-season clothing is moths. Moths, along with carpet beetles, are drawn to natural fibers like wool, cashmere, and silk. Their larvae can cause significant damage if left unchecked. Mothballs are a traditional solution, but they release toxic chemicals that can pose health risks to humans and pets.
Instead, consider using natural moth repellents like cedar blocks, lavender sachets, or herbs like rosemary. These alternatives not only protect your clothing from pests but also leave a pleasant fragrance behind. To maximize their effectiveness, place cedar blocks or herbal sachets inside drawers, containers, or garment bags. Make sure the repellent doesn’t directly touch your clothes, as essential oils can sometimes stain fabrics.
Find a suitable place for your clothes
Where you store your seasonal clothing matters as much as how you store it. The ideal storage spot is cool, dry, and dark—environments that deter insects and mold growth. Typical storage areas like basements, attics, and garages can work, but you’ll need to check for any moisture issues, as dampness can lead to mildew and fabric deterioration.
If you lack a suitable spot in your home, consider under-bed storage bins or reallocating dresser drawers for off-season clothes. Flat plastic bins are especially useful for storing bulky items like sweaters or coats without taking up extra closet space.
Regardless of where you choose to store your clothes, make sure the area is clean. Vacuum the storage area first, sanitize surfaces, and keep an eye out for pests. If you're using closets or drawers, avoid overcrowding, as air circulation helps prevent mold and mustiness.
Be careful with hangers
Hanging clothes can be a great space-saver, but it’s not ideal for all fabrics. Delicate materials like silk, or heavy items like wool coats, may become misshapen if hung improperly. Heavy garments tend to stretch out if left on hangers for long periods.
When hanging garments, always choose high-quality hangers designed to support the weight and structure of the fabric. Wooden hangers, for example, are an excellent choice for preserving the shape of coats, suits, and blazers. For tips on selecting the best hangers for your wardrobe, refer to our blog on tips for choosing and using wooden hangers for garment care.
If you’re short on hanging space, fold lighter garments like t-shirts, shorts, and dresses and store them in labeled bins or vacuum-sealed bags. When using vacuum-sealed bags, be mindful of the fabrics you’re storing, as excessive compression can damage certain textiles over time.
You don't need to vacuum seal everything
Vacuum-sealing clothes can be a great space-saver, especially for bulky items like jackets and bedding. However, not every fabric type benefits from vacuum-sealing. Structured garments, like blazers or coats with padding, can lose their shape when compressed. Delicate fabrics, such as silk or sequins, can also suffer damage from the friction created by tight packing.
For structured or delicate garments, opt for folding and placing them in breathable containers with acid-free tissue paper. Knitwear and linens are more suitable for vacuum-sealing, as they can handle the compression without losing their integrity.
When using vacuum bags, be sure to store them in a climate-controlled space to protect the contents from extreme temperatures or humidity fluctuations.
Bonus: Store in a climate-controlled space
If you have the resources, storing your off-season clothes in a climate-controlled space is the best option. Ideal storage conditions include a temperature range of 60-70°F and humidity levels of 50-55%. This prevents mold growth, keeps fabrics from drying out, and reduces the risk of pests.
Garages and attics often fluctuate in temperature and humidity, making them less than ideal for long-term storage. Investing in a portable air conditioner or dehumidifier can help regulate the environment, ensuring that your clothes stay in pristine condition.
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