When the weather turns warm and winter ends, you might wonder how to store your bulky winter clothes so they’re still in great shape when cold weather returns. Simply stuffing them in any open space isn’t enough-proper storage keeps your clothes looking good, saves closet space, and keeps away problems like mildew or pests. Taking the right steps means your sweaters stay soft, coats don’t lose their shape, and your hats and scarves are always ready to use. Here’s an easy guide on how to store your winter clothes so they come out fresh and undamaged next season.
Storing winter clothes well is like giving your wardrobe a seasonal break. It lets you move from thick layers to lighter clothes easily, knowing your winter items are being cared for until you need them again. This guide covers everything you need to know: how to get your clothes ready, the best ways to store them, choosing a good place for storage, and how to make sure they stay clean and protected while packed away.
Why Taking Care with Storage Is Important
It might seem easy to just pack away winter clothes wherever they fit, but spending a little extra time on storage really helps. It doesn’t just make your closet tidy-it protects your clothes and helps them last for years. Here’s what you get from storing things properly:
Helps Clothes Last Longer
Winter clothes-especially wool coats, cashmere sweaters, and down jackets-are usually expensive. Storing them the right way, whether folding them or hanging them properly, stops them from losing their shape or getting crushed. If you simply throw them into a box or leave them out in the open, you risk stretching, squishing, or ruining them. Careful storage also means less chance your clothes will end up with creases, snags, or broken threads. Make sure to use materials like acid-free tissue for delicate items and keep everything dry and aired out.
Saves Closet Space
Winter clothing is bulky and piles up fast, which can eat up space in your closet or drawers. If you pack it away smartly, you free up room for the clothes you need now. Use under-bed storage, vacuum bags for puffy items, or organizers that stack up vertically. Before storing, sort through your winter wardrobe and only keep what you’ll actually wear next year. Donating or recycling unused items gives you more space now and a simpler closet later.
Prevents Mold, Bugs, and Smells
Proper storage protects your clothes from mold, bugs, and bad smells. If winter clothes aren’t fully dry or are put away dirty, mildew and pests like moths can move in. Always store clean, dry clothes in safe containers, and use cedar or lavender to keep bugs away and clothes smelling good. Keep air moving so your clothes don’t come out musty. Taking these steps means your clothes will always be ready to wear, season after season.
How to Get Winter Clothes Ready for Storage
Before you put anything away, spend a little time getting your winter clothes ready. This makes a big difference in how they look and smell when you take them back out. Here’s how:
Sort and Decide What to Keep
- Go through each item and ask: Did I wear this? Does it fit? Is it in good shape?
- Sort into four groups: keep, donate, recycle, and repair.
- Fix anything small (like a loose button) before storage to avoid bigger problems later.
Clean and Dry Everything
- Wash or dry clean every piece, even if it looks clean, because odors or dirt attract bugs.
- Follow care labels closely. Hand wash or dry clean wool and cashmere as needed.
- Let clothes air dry fully, especially thick items; even a bit of moisture can cause mildew.
Remove Stains
- Treat any spots before washing. Old stains can get locked in during storage.
- Be sure any stain remover is safe for the fabric by testing it on a hidden area first.
Fix Anything Damaged
- Sew on buttons or patch up small tears now so your clothes are ready to wear later.
- De-pill sweaters to keep them looking neat.
Picking the Right Storage for Winter Clothes
The way you pack up your clothes matters. The right boxes or bags keep them clean and safe:
| Storage Option | Best For | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Plastic Bins | Most winter clothes | Protects from bugs and moisture; stackable | Can trap moisture if clothes aren’t fully dry |
| Fabric Bags (cotton, canvas) | Delicate fibers needing to breathe | Protects from dust, lets air in | Less protection from moisture/pests |
| Vacuum-Sealed Bags | Puffy items (down jackets) | Saves lots of space | Can squish delicate fibers, not for wool/cashmere |
When to Hang vs. Fold
- Hang: Coats, jackets, and anything that wrinkles or loses shape when folded (use sturdy hangers and fabric garment bags).
- Fold: Sweaters, knitwear, and shirts (especially made of wool or cashmere). Add acid-free tissue over delicate items to prevent creases.
Don’t use cardboard boxes or open bags-they bring in moisture, bugs, and can collapse. Sealed plastic bins or breathable garment bags work best.
Where to Store Your Winter Clothes
Finding the right place matters, as much as picking the right container. Look for a spot that is cool, dry, and away from sunlight.
- Best: Closets inside your house where temperature and humidity stay steady. Under-bed bins in dry rooms are also good, especially if you need to access clothes sometimes.
- Not recommended: Attics (get too hot) or basements (often damp and prone to pests), unless you take special measures like airtight bins and maybe a dehumidifier. Make sure the space is clean and pest-free before moving your clothes in.
Extra Ways to Protect Winter Clothes While Stored
- Natural fresheners: Use cedar blocks or lavender sachets in bins or bags to keep away bugs and smells. Refresh cedar by lightly sanding it as the scent fades.
- No mothballs: Avoid mothballs-they smell bad and contain chemicals. Stick to natural options.
- Don’t overfill bins: Stuffing bins too full causes wrinkles and flattens puffy items. Leave some space for air to flow.
- Acid-free tissue paper: Place between delicate items to prevent damage or color changes.
How to Store Different Winter Items
- Coats and heavy outerwear: Hang on strong hangers, zip or button them, and use garment bags. Don’t fold-creases can ruin padding.
- Sweaters: Always fold. Hanging can make them stretch. Use softer tissue to keep them neat.
- Wool and cashmere: Clean thoroughly, fold with acid-free tissue, and use fabric bags. Add cedar or lavender to keep moths away. Never vacuum-seal.
- Accessories (scarves, gloves, hats): Fold or roll, store in smaller bins or use dividers. Over-the-door clear pocket organizers also work well. Clearly label to avoid searching later.
How to Label and Organize for Easy Access
- Pack by type, person, or size (especially if you store for several people or kids).
- Use specific, clear labels on each bin. Write exactly what’s inside, like “Women’s Sweaters, size M.”
- Keep an inventory list on your phone or a notebook so you don’t need to open every bin to find something.
Mistakes People Make (and How to Avoid Them)
- Not washing before storage: Dirty clothes can end up with stains, smells, or bugs. Always clean everything first.
- Packing bins too tight: Too many clothes in one box causes wrinkles, squashing, and can ruin puffy coats. Use extra bins or declutter again as needed.
- Forgetting to check on stored clothes: Every few months, open bins to let air in and watch for bugs or dampness. Address problems early so they don’t get worse.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can I store winter clothes?
With clean, dry clothes in good containers and a cool, dry spot, you can store your winter items for the whole off-season or even longer with no trouble. They’ll last for years this way.
How do I keep clothes from smelling bad?
Wash and dry everything fully before you store it. Add cedar, lavender, or charcoal to bins for a clean scent and to absorb odors.
Is it okay to store clothes for months at a time?
Yes, as long as you use a good method-clean, dry, in safe containers, in the right place-your clothes will do fine in storage for months at a time.
How can I keep out moths and bugs?
The most important steps are cleaning thoroughly and using sealed containers. Add cedar or lavender. Check storage areas once or twice during the off-season to catch problems early.
How can I store bulky coats in a small space?
Use strong hangers and garment bags. If there’s no room, try vacuum bags for non-delicate coats or use under-bed bins, suitcases, or hooks. Use creative vertical space like the back of doors.
As you put away those heavy coats and thick sweaters and get ready for warmer weather, remember that careful storage keeps your clothes looking their best and ready for next winter. Clean, dry, and pack them the right way, and your favorites will be waiting for you-fresh, soft, and cozy-when you need them again. Happy storing!