How to Prepare Your Clothes for Long-Term Storage

Properly preparing clothes for long-term storage is vital to maintain their quality and longevity, keeping them fresh and damage-free. Explore our best advice on how you can prepare your clothes for long-term storage with Wilson Storage!

Sort and Organise Your Clothes

By decluttering and sorting items, you streamline the storage process and make sure only necessary items are boxed in storage. This approach maximises space and makes it easier to retrieve specific items later.

Keep, Donate, or Sell

Sort your clothes into categories: keep, donate, or sell. Deciding what to keep and what to part with reduces clutter and simplifies storing clothes long-term.

Clean and Dry Clothes Thoroughly

Before storing, wash and thoroughly dry your clothes to remove stains and dirt. This attention to detail is the best way to store clothes long term, preserving their quality and freshness.

Wash and Treat Stains

Washing clothes and treating any stains before they are boxed in storage keeps them in pristine condition, preventing the buildup of odours and potential damage.

Avoid Ironing

Avoid ironing clothes before long-term storage, as they may need to be re-ironed when removed, causing unnecessary wear.

Repair and Protect Clothes

Maintain the quality and longevity of your garments by repairing and protecting them before they are boxed in storage.

Mend Damaged Items

Repair any damaged items before long-term storage to prevent the damage from worsening and keep your clothes in good condition for future use.

Use Protective Covers

Protective covers, such as garment bags or acid-free tissue paper, can shield fabrics from dust, moisture, and potential pests while they are boxed in storage.

Choose the Right Storage Containers

Plastic containers with secure lids are the best way to store clothes long-term, as they protect against moisture and pests. Avoid cardboard boxes or vacuum-sealed bags, which can cause damage over time.

Avoid Cardboard Boxes

Cardboard boxes are not ideal for storing clothes long term because they lack moisture protection, which can lead to mildew and damage.

Opt for Plastic Containers

Plastic containers keep garments dry and in good condition, keeping them fresh and ready for future use.

Select a Suitable Storage Location

When deciding how to store clothes for the long term, choosing the right dry, cool, temperature-controlled location is essential.

Cool, Dark, and Dry Areas

Select a cool, dark, and dry location to prevent damage from light, humidity and moisture, which can cause fading and mildew.

Consider Professional Storage Units

Attics or basements are not ideal for storing clothes long term as they may have fluctuating conditions; instead, opt for a climate-controlled storage unit, like Wilson’s storage, for optimal protection and security.

Pack Clothes Properly 

Proper packing is essential to maximise space and protect your clothes during long-term storage. When packed efficiently, garments preserve their condition and are easier to access.

Fold or Roll Clothes 

Fold or roll clothes to save space and minimise wrinkles; rolling can be particularly effective for maximising storage efficiency while keeping garments neat and easily accessible.

Use Cedar Balls or Sachets

Place cedar balls or sachets in with clothing to deter pests and keep garments fresh while boxed in storage.

Maintain an Inventory

An accurate inventory of your clothes keeps you organised, helping you track items and find them quickly.

Label and List Items 

Create a detailed list and label all containers clearly to facilitate easy access and organisation of all items boxed in storage.

Check on Stored Clothes Periodically

Regularly checking on your stored clothes helps catch any potential issues early so that they remain in good condition. 

Regular Inspections

Periodic inspections allow you to address problems such as moisture or pests before they cause significant damage.

Ensuring Longevity and Freshness for Your Stored Clothes

You can effectively protect your garments by following these steps—sorting and cleaning, using proper containers, and maintaining an organised inventory. Adopting the best way to store clothes long-term will help them stay fresh, damage-free, and ready for future use.

Ready to start? Find your friendly local Wilson Storage here and book the right storage solution for you in 3 easy steps!