Proven Tips on How to Store Your Clothes in Self-Storage
Keeping clothing in a self-storage unit is a great way to create more closet space. It’s also useful for preserving the condition of your clothing. If you’re looking to put some clothes in self-storage, follow these proven tips on how to store your clothes in storage.
1. Wash your clothes before storing them
It’s important for your clothing to be clean prior to being put in storage. Perspiration including perfumes can settle into the fabric, possibly damaging your clothing over time. Soiled clothing can also cause foul odors to fill the storage unit and potentially attract insects and other pests.
2. Take advantage of storage supplies
While the average cardboard box will suffice in most instances, there are a variety of useful storage supplies specifically designed for clothing storage.
Clothes storage bins
Plastic storage containers are especially helpful, as they’re more durable than cardboard and can shield your clothing from dust, moisture, and potential pests. For added protection, consider lining the container with a cotton sheet.
Wardrobe boxes
U-Haul Wardrobe boxes are specifically designed to store clothing on hangers. This is ideal for jackets, dresses and other articles of clothing that cannot be easily folded, or clothes you wish to keep from developing creases. Sizes vary from small to extra large so you will surely find a box that complements your storage needs.
Garment bags
If you’re concerned about moisture or pests damaging your hanging clothes, you can store items in a cotton garment bag before placing them in your Wardrobe box. Folded items can be wrapped in acid-free tissue paper for added protection. Never leave clothes in plastic bags while in storage, as they tend to trap fabric-damaging moisture.
Moisture absorbers
If you live in a humid region, consider adding moisture absorbing silica gel packets and/or cedar balls to your storage containers and throughout the storage unit to keep your belongings dry and to prevent musty aromas from overtaking the space.
3. Choose which clothes to hang and which to fold
Certain types of clothing are better stored folded while others are better hung up. Knowing the difference is crucial to keeping your clothing in the best possible condition while in storage.
Items that should be folded:
- Sweaters
- Stretchy clothing
- T-shirts
- Delicates
- Denim and khaki pants
Items that should be hung:
- Dress pants
- Blazers
- Wrinkle-prone clothing
- Blouses
- Dresses
4. Opt for climate controlled self-storage
It’s highly recommended you acquire a climate-controlled storage unit if you’re storing clothing you want to keep in pristine condition. Not only does this keep your clothing at room temperature, but it also keeps humidity and dust in the storage unit to a minimum.
5. Avoid vacuum-sealing for certain items
Vacuum-sealing clothing in a plastic bag can be helpful, as it creates more space in the storage area, but it’s not recommended for all clothing. Generally, expensive or rare materials, like fur for example, should not be stored in a vacuum-sealed bag, as it can crush the material. Other issues with vacuum-sealing include the possibility of moisture being trapped in the bag and the vacuum-sealing process drying out your clothing over time. You can vacuum seal for temporary storage, but long term storage items should be stored in a container or garment bag.
6. Visit your storage unit often
Storage isn’t a “set it and forget it” project. If you want your clothing to stay in excellent condition while in storage, it’s best to visit your unit every so often and make sure there are no problems with your clothing. The earlier you discover an issue, the earlier you’ll be able to take action to prevent additional problems from occurring.
From storage supplies to climate-controlled self-storage units, U-Haul has everything for your clothing storage needs. Find a storage unit near you today.