Because college dorms and student apartments tend to have limited space, many students keep their off-season apparel in storage. Packing up clothing and keeping it in a nearby storage facility is a convenient way to ensure you’ll have access to the items you need when the weather changes. While these facilities are well-suited for keeping your belongings in optimal condition, there are a few steps you can take during packing to further protect your clothes.

How to Keep Clothing Protected During Storage

1. Wash & Dry Everything

Washing  clothes before storage is always wise. If stains or odors are present, they’ll settle into the fabrics and may be impossible to get out. Plus, they could attract insects or other pests. Run your clothes through the washing machine and make sure they’re thoroughly dried to prevent any mildew before packing them away.

2. Store Items in Sealed Bins

Plastic bins with snap-on lids are the most effective containers for holding clothing. While cardboard boxes could allow moisture to seep in, these bins help keep any mildew, dust, and mold at bay. Also, although it may help you save space, avoid vacuum sealing your clothes. While this solution may work on a short-term basis, lack of airflow causes fibers to lose shape over time.

3. Use Silica Gel or Cedar Balls

Although the tips above will help you minimize the risk of mildew development, take one further preventive step to keep moisture out of your clothes by adding silica gel packets or cedar balls in each bin. Silica gel packets can be placed in your containers to prevent humidity from ruining your fabrics. Just keep them away from pets and children, as they’re harmful if ingested. If you prefer an all-natural alternative, include cedar balls in your bins. Not only do they prevent mildew, but they also deter moths and other insects.

If you’re a student in the Rochester, NY, area seeking affordable storage, look no further than Student Storage Solutions. Their low-cost rentals make storing your belongings convenient and budget-friendly, and allow you to keep the items you don’t need at home or at school safely out of sight. Explore their solutions by visiting their website or call (585) 232-3450.