If you’re looking for ways to free up space around the house, consider putting some of your clothing into storage. However, it’s important to pack your sweaters, coats, and other garments carefully to keep them fresh and protect them from damage. Here are a handful of tips on preparing your clothes for storage.

4 Tips for Storing Clothing

1. Clear Out Unwanted Items First

As you go through your closets and drawers, take the opportunity to clear out clutter. Make separate boxes for garments you want to sell, donate, or discard. Doing so will not only save space in your home, but also provide you with more room in your storage unit for items you don’t want to part with, but don’t have space for in the house.

2. Clean Them

If you store dirty clothing, particles in their fabrics may create permanent stains and cause them to smell over time. Wash or dry clean the garments you plan to store according to the instructions on their tags. Pack them with cedar blocks or oil to combat odors. 

3. Use Protective Coverings

For short-term storage, put your clothing in garment or vacuum-sealed bags. For long-term storage, use breathable plastic containers, and line each piece with linen to prevent mold and mildew from forming. Avoid cardboard boxes, since their acids may damage your garments if they’re stowed away for a long time. 

4. Minimize Damage Risks

If you store your clothing on hangers, they may develop holes, indentations, or become stretched under the weight of gravity. Similarly, don’t fold stored clothing too tightly, as permanent creases may form. Additionally, minimize damage from humidity and temperature fluctuations by storing your clothes in a climate-controlled space. 

When you’re ready to store clothes, furniture, and other items, reserve a unit at Mary's Mini Warehouse. They provide clean, spacious, and climate-controlled storage solutions to residents throughout Pell City, AL. Additionally, the facility is gated and has a professional on-site, so you can feel comfortable about the safety of your valuables. Call (205) 884-4061 to ask about rental sizing and rates, or visit them online to learn more about vehicle and boat storage options.