Closet Cleaning and Summer Clothes Storage Tips

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Is your closet full of clothes you no longer wear? Do you struggle to find items you are looking for? Are your sweaters mixed up with your swimsuits? Don’t wait until January 1st to finally declutter and organize your closet. Make space for your favorite fall and winter clothes, shoes, and accessories and prepare your spring and summer wardrobe for storage with our easy tips!

Remove Everything…Yes! Everything!

Take every item out of your closet and place it in one of four boxes (piles, bags, etc.): trash, give away, keep, or store. Each individual item from your closet needs to be placed into one of the four categories. Separate out anything that needs altering or dry cleaning. Ask yourself the following questions about each item:

  • Do I love it?
  • Do I wear it?
  • Does it fit?
  • Is it comfortable?
  • Is it damaged?
  • Does it project the image I want to project?
  • How did I feel the last time I wore this?
  • Does it require constant upkeep?
  • When was the last time I wore it? (If you didn’t wear it during the past year, you probably won’t wear it next year.)

Your closet space is limited so don't keep items that you don’t love. If an item holds sentimental value, was a major investment, or you know you’ll wear it “someday” consider putting it in storage to make the best use of your limited space. When your closet is completely empty: dust, wipe down the shelving, and vacuum. Place everything from your “keep” pile back in your closet with your most-worn items in front. Throw away all items in your “trash” pile. Drop off your “donations” and take your alterations and cleaning to the tailor and dry cleaner.

Prepare Your Clothes for Storage

  1. All clothing should be washed or dry cleaned. Small amounts of food or stains that may not be visible will be difficult to remove after a season in storage.
  2. Sort everything into categories: shirts, pants, dresses, accessories, etc.
  3. Use the correct storage supplies for each item of clothing. Choose sturdy (not thin wire) hangers to prevent fabrics from discoloring. Hang structured items like jackets on shaped hangers to support the shoulders and silky fabrics on padded or flocked hangers to avoid slipping off. Hang skirts by the waistband with skirt hangers and trousers by their hems or cuffs. Use fabric hanging bags rather than plastic because they allow air to circulate, preventing moisture build-up and damage. Choose clean, transparent plastic storage bins with tight fitting lids or acid-free cardboard boxes (not the free ones from the grocery store).
  4. Label each bag and box so that you can easily locate your items for unpacking.

Take some time now to store your clothes correctly and you will be happy when warm weather comes around next spring. Choose a climate controlled Storage Post unit.