The Ultimate Guide to Storing Clothes Long-Term for Your Move

 

Learn the best practices for storing clothes long-term without damage before your move, including space-saving tips from packing services toronto.

Moving to a new home can be stressful enough without having to worry about your wardrobe. Properly storing clothes for the long-term is crucial to keep them looking their best. 

When relying on packing services toronto, follow these expert tips to store clothes without damage for your upcoming move.

Evaluate Your Current Wardrobe

Before packing up your closet, take time to edit down your clothing to just the essentials. This prevents you from wasting storage space on pieces you rarely wear.

• Go through each garment and ruthlessly get rid of anything with stains, tears, or that no longer fits. Donate or consign these items.
• Be honest about when you last wore certain pieces. If it's been over a year, it may be time to let it go.
• Only keep clothes that flatter your body type and suit your current lifestyle. You can always replenish your wardrobe later.

Use Space-Saving Storage Methods

Proper storage methods keep clothes neat, wrinkle-free, and prevent damage from moisture or pests. Packing services toronto have useful solutions to maximize closet space.

Vacuum-Seal Bags

Vacuum-seal bags are a lifesaver for reducing the volume of off-season clothes and bulky items like sweaters, jackets, and blankets. Simply place the garments in the bag, seal it, and use a vacuum to suck out the air. This compresses everything down to a fraction of its normal size.

Garment Bags

Invest in thick, durable garment bags to store expensive suits, dresses, and other special occasion wear. Make sure the bag has a hanging rack and zipper to keep out dust.

Rolling Clothes

Neatly rolling clothes vertically maximizes storage space. Wrap t-shirts and blouses around a cardboard tube to prevent creasing. Place rolls upright in bins or shelves.

Pick the Right Storage Containers

Containers protect clothing from moisture, pests, and getting crushed.

• Plastic bins with tight sealing lids are ideal for sweaters, pants, and most everyday clothes.
• Acid-free cardboard boxes work for storing off-season items in attics or basements.
• Cedar blocks or sachets guard against moths and repel moisture.
• Avoid plastic bags or cardboard that can trap moisture.

Store Clothes in a Clean, Dry Space

Where you store clothes long-term is just as crucial.

• Attics and basements are good options, provided they are dry and well-ventilated. Place containers atop pallets to prevent water damage.
• Use storage units climate-controlled to 50-75°F to prevent mold growth. Avoid units with humidity or frequent temperature fluctuations.
• Hang delicate fabrics like silk in closets versus packing them.
• Wash clothes before storing to remove oils, food stains, and other grime that attracts insects.

Additional Packing Tips from the Experts

Follow these pro pointers from packing services toronto for keeping clothes damage-free in storage:

• Wrap shoes in tissue paper and store upright to retain their shape.
• Fill bras with socks to maintain cup size and prevent wire damage.
• Pad hanger hooks with socks or paper to prevent tears and snags on delicates and sequined fabrics.
• Unbutton shirts, jackets, and pants to relieve stress on seams and prevent puckering.
• Dry clean wool, silk, and formal wear first and store in breathable fabric like cotton sheets, never plastic.