Summer means the arrival of long, warm days, picnics in the park, and well-deserved holidays. It also means it is time to change wardrobes. Making space for your summer wardrobe means packing your winter clothing away for the next few months. If you do not have the extra space at home for storing your winter wardrobe, consider using a self storage unit nearby. This may be the practical solution you are looking for. Free up space in your home while ensuring your clothes remain in good condition for the next season. Storing winter clothes properly is essential to maintaining their quality and long life.
Here are some comprehensive tips on how to store your winter wardrobe in a self storage unit to ensure your favourite pieces remain in excellent condition for seasons to come.
Why Proper Storage Matters
Winter clothes are often made from materials like wool, cashmere, and down, which are costly to purchase and require special care. Improper storage can lead to damage from moths, mildew, and loss of shape. Investing time in correctly storing these garments will save you money and extend the life of your favourite pieces.
Cleaning Before Storing
One of the most critical steps before storing winter clothes is to ensure they are clean. Even if an item looks clean, it can still harbour oils, sweat, and food particles, which attract pests and can lead to staining over time.
Launder or Dry Clean – Follow the care instructions on each garment. Wool and cashmere items often require dry cleaning, while synthetics and blends can be machine-washed. Hand wash your delicate items like wool sweaters or cashmere scarves in cold water using a suitably gentle detergent. Any stains should be removed before storage as they will set over time and may become impossible to remove.
Prepare Your Clothes for Storage
Proper preparation goes beyond cleaning. How you fold and organise your clothes will impact their condition when you retrieve them next winter.
Folding, Rolling, Hanging – Fold sweaters and other knit items carefully to avoid stretching. For delicate items, place tissue paper between folds to prevent creases. Stuffing the sleeves of coats and jackets with acid-free tissue paper will help them maintain their shape. Roll scarves and other small accessories to avoid wrinkles and save space. Use padded hangers to prevent shoulder damage for items that must be hung up. Button or zip up all closures to help the garment maintain its shape.
Storing footwear properly is important to ensure that your winter boots and shoes remain in good condition. Clean them thoroughly to remove any dirt and grime. Use a leather conditioner on leather boots to keep them supple. Stuff your boots with boot shapers or paper to maintain their shape. Use cotton shoe bags to protect your shoes from dust while allowing them to breathe.
Choose the Right Storage Packaging Materials
Choosing the right materials can make a significant difference to preserving the condition of your clothes.
Breathable garment bags are ideal for coats and dresses. Avoid plastic bags which can trap moisture and lead to mildew. Plastic bins are ideal for items that can be folded like sweaters and scarves. They offer protection from moisture and pests. Vacuum-sealed bags can save space for puffer jackets but avoid using these for natural fibres like wool or down, as long-term compression can damage the material. Don’t forget to add cedar blocks or sachets to your storage bins. Cedar is a natural repellent for moths and luckily it smells pleasant.
Select the Right Self Storage Unit Facility
This is crucial to the safekeeping of your clothes. Choose a facility that has robust security measures including surveillance cameras, gated access, and good lighting. The facility must be clean and well-maintained with no signs of pests or rodents.
Organising Your Self Storage Unit
Organising and packing your storage unit efficiently will ensure easy access and protect your clothes. Place the items you might need during storage towards the front of the unit. Create clear aisles to reach all parts of the unit. Place your belongings on palettes or line the floor of the unit with a tarp to prevent potential water damage and improve airflow around your belongings. Use temporary shelving and a metal clothing rack to hang your coats, suits, and dresses. Store heavier bins and items at the bottom to prevent crushing lighter, more delicate items.
Off-Season Maintenance
Even while in storage, your winter clothes need some attention. Carry out regular checks on them to ensure that they are dry and that there is no damage from mildew and no sign of pests or other issues. Early detection can prevent extensive damage. Refresh or replace cedar blocks of sachets every few months to maintain their effectiveness.
Transitioning Back to Winter
When it’s time to return your winter wardrobe to rotation, a few preparatory steps can make the transition smoother.
Inspect each item for any signs of damage or pest infestation.
Even if your items of clothing appear clean, refresh them with a gentle wash or hang them out in the fresh air.
Remove any wrinkles that may have formed during storage using a steamer or an iron.
Allow items that were vacuum-sealed or tightly packed to regain their shape by hanging them up for a day or two before wearing them.
Stop & Store Penrith Self Storage Unit
Storing your winter wardrobe in a self storage unit at our Penrith facility can be an excellent way to manage your seasonal wardrobes efficiently. With a little bit of effort, you will ensure that your winter garments remain in pristine condition year after year.
- Our self storage facility is easily accessible.
- Our security is second to none so you can rest assured that your belongings will be safe.
- We have various specials available so please check our website or speak to us.
- Stop & Store Penrith staff will offer you all the assistance you need when looking for a self storage unit.
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