Whether you’re downsizing, decluttering, putting items away for the season, or in the process of moving, you may find it helpful to put some of your fabrics in storage. This is an efficient way to free up valuable space inside your closets and make room to store other items. But before you pack everything up, make sure that the fabrics are prepared for their new location. Here is what you should know.

How to Prepare Fabrics for Long-Term Storage

1. Clean Them First

Make sure that all of your fabrics are freshly laundered and pressed before putting them into a storage unit. This helps them stay fresher for longer periods and prevents issues like odors and stains from penetrating the fabric and settling into the material. Make sure that everything is completely dry before packing; moisture can breed odors, mold, and mildew.

2. Use Plastic Containers

It’s tempting to fold everything into cardboard boxes and stack them in the unit, but that isn’t best for the integrity of the fabric. Boxes are so compact, that they could cause odors to form, while plastic bags can contribute to moisture accumulation. Even vacuum-sealed bags won’t do the job effectively, as they could ruin the natural shape and integrity of the materials over time. Place everything neatly inside plastic boxes with snap-down lids instead. You can easily spot what is inside, and you can line them with tissue paper to protect sensitive fabric, including wool and satin.

3. Add Cedar Wood

The longer that your fabrics are left untouched in self-storage, the more likely they are to develop general musty scents over time. It’s a natural occurrence, but you can prevent it by adding cedar wood bags or blocks to your containers. These aromatic pieces will fend off issues like mildew and moths, and keep your fabrics fresh and nicely scented until you’re ready to retrieve them.

4. Check Them Occasionally

You don’t need to open every box, but it’s wise to take a peek inside one or two containers every few months to make sure that the fabrics are in good condition. If you place seasonal items inside, rotate those boxes to the front of the unit about a month before you need them so that you can access them with ease when the time comes.
 

Whether you’re moving or decluttering your space, it’s wise to rent a storage unit to facilitate the process. Meridian Mini Storage is the leading source for spacious storage units in Kalispell, MT. The facility offers two convenient locations—in Kalispell  and Evergreen—and they’re committed to providing you with the most efficient space for your needs. To find out more about their storage options and sizes, visit their website or call (406) 257-5566.