You probably switch out your wardrobe a few times a year, storing away clothes for different seasons. To ensure your dry-cleaned items are ready to wear when you need them, here are some handy storage tips to keep them in tip-top condition.
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Use a Dry Cleaning Delivery Service Before Storage
Before storing your clothes, make sure they’re clean. Stains and smells can get worse in storage and might invite pesky insects. So, send your clothes to the dry cleaner for a refresh before tucking them away. When you get them back, they’ll be all set for storage.
Choose a Temperature-controlled Storage Space
When deciding where to store your clothes, don’t rush to the attic unless it’s well-insulated and climate-controlled. Instead, opt for a place with steady temperatures. A dark, UV-free area is ideal.
Some good options are under the bed or in a spare closet. If you have a guest room, you can use its closet for your seasonal clothes. This way, your clothes stay safe during the off-season.
Choose What to Hanging vs. Folding: Storage Tips
Sort your clothes into what needs to be hung and what can be folded. Fold items that can stretch, like sweaters. Hang clothes prone to wrinkles, such as dresses, suits, dress shirts, and blouses.
Storing Folded Clothes
Avoid cardboard boxes, as they attract pests and can’t keep moisture out. Opt for plastic containers with acid-free tissue paper between items. Don’t overpack; give your clothes room to breathe. Place heavier items at the bottom and lighter ones on top.
Storing Clothing on Hangers
Use sturdy wooden or padded hangers for your clothes. Protect them in garment bags, but avoid plastic ones that suffocate your garments. Choose cotton garment bags that allow air to circulate.
Labeling
Label your containers so you can find what you need easily. A marker or label maker works well. You can also label garment bags to save time searching.
Protect Your Clothing With Cedar Blocks
Instead of toxic mothballs, use cedar blocks to keep pests away and maintain a fresh scent. Sand and re-oil the blocks every three years for effectiveness.
What About Wedding Gowns?
For wedding gowns, trust a wedding gown preservation company for dry cleaning and storage. Keep it in a temperature-controlled, sun-free area.
Start with a Dry Cleaning Delivery Service
Begin by entering your zip code on the website to get pricing for dry cleaning pickup and delivery. It’s cost-effective, with pickup and delivery. Once you get your clean clothes back, follow these tips for proper storage. Your clothes will be ready for the next season.
- Use Breathable Garment Bags: Invest in breathable garment bags made of fabric or cotton rather than plastic. These bags allow air circulation, preventing moisture buildup that can lead to mildew and odours. Avoid storing clothes in plastic for extended periods, as it can trap moisture and result in a musty smell.
- Clean and Dry Before Storage: Ensure that your dry-cleaned clothes are completely clean and dry before storing them. Any lingering moisture or stains can attract pests and contribute to mould growth. Take the time to inspect each item, addressing any stains or spots before placing them in storage.
- Provide Adequate Space: Avoid overpacking your closet or storage space. Allow enough room for garments to hang freely without being crammed together. Crowded conditions can lead to wrinkles and misshaping. Proper spacing also facilitates air circulation, preventing a stale odour from developing.
- Use Padded Hangers: Opt for padded hangers, especially for delicate fabrics like silk or knits. Padded hangers help maintain the garment’s shape and prevent unnecessary stress on shoulders or seams. Avoid using wire hangers, as they can leave impressions on clothes and cause damage over time.
