How To Store Clothes Long Term

If you have no idea how to store clothes or are looking for tips about how to store clothing long term, we’ve got you covered.

In this post, we’ll go over why you might want to store clothing long-term, how to pack clothes for storage, the best containers for storing clothes, and why you should consider renting a storage unit.

Why you might want to store clothing

There are many reasons as to why you might want to store clothing. Some common ones include:

1. Storing baby or child clothing: Babies and kids grow so fast, often only wearing a clothing size for a short time, whether that be a few months or a year before they grow into the next size. Many families will store their children’s clothing just in case it can be handed down to a younger sibling, relative, or friend.
2. Storing seasonal clothing: Many people will store warmer clothing in the summer and lighter clothing in the winter. This saves on space at home.
3. Storing clothes that aren’t in style: You may have some clothing items that aren’t currently in style, but you have an attachment to them and think they might come back in style again.
4. Storing clothes to save space: While this one technically could apply to any our reasons for storing clothing, some people are only storing stuff because they don’t have space. If you have a huge closet packed with clothes, many of which you don’t ever wear, storing some will free up some space which can make your life easier.
5. Storing clothing that doesn’t fit: People often will store old clothes that they are attached to, but that doesn’t currently fit. If you’ve gained a few pounds that you plan to lose, it doesn’t make sense to throw away your entire wardrobe and then buy a new one in the same size once you lose weight.

How to pack clothes for storage

When packing clothes for storage, you first want to be sure that the clothes are clean and in the best condition they can be. This will prevent stains from taking hold and also help make sure there isn’t anything on the clothes that can cause damage during storage, like insects or eggs.

Next, consider folding your clothes. Not all clothes can or should be folded, but there are a lot that can be, like jeans, t-shirts, socks, etc. However, there are things like suits or some dresses that you wouldn’t want to fold as it could permanently crease or damage the items.

The best containers for storing clothes

Storing your clothing in containers will help protect them from things like dust, insects, rodents, water damage, and more. Some of the best containers for storing clothes include plastic containers, cardboard boxes, and plastic bags:

Storing clothes in plastic containers

When it comes to storing clothes, plastic containers are a great option. They’re water-proof, which is perfect for storage in a damp or humid area, and they’re airtight, which will help keep insects and rodents away. Additionally, they come in a variety of shapes and sizes, so you can find one that will fit perfectly in your closet or storage area. Plastic containers really are the best option for keeping your clothes safe in storage.

The only downsides to storing clothes in plastic containers is that they can be heavy, so if you need to move them, it can be difficult. Additionally, they can be expensive if you need a lot of them.

Cardboard long term clothes storage boxes

When it comes to long-term clothes storage, cardboard boxes are often the go-to option. This is because they’re cheap, lightweight, and easy to store. Additionally, they provide good air circulation and can be easily accessed if you need to get something out of storage.

However, there are a few downsides to using cardboard boxes. Firstly, they’re not water-proof, so you need to pay close attention if they’re going to be stored outside or someplace where it may rain. Secondly, cardboard boxes can take on smells over time and will need to be repacked every couple of years. Lastly, rodents love them so if you do use cardboard boxes for long term storage, you’ll want to keep them in rodent-proof containers.

Storing clothes in plastic bags

One of the benefits of storing clothes in plastic bags is that they’re lightweight and easy to move around. This makes them perfect for storing clothes in tight spaces or for taking them with you on a trip. There are plastic bags that can be vacuumed to remove the air in them, which further reduces the amount of space they take up.

Another benefit of using plastic bags for clothes storage is that they’re water-proof. Humidity is the enemy of clothing, so storing your clothes in plastic bags helps to protect them.

Lastly, plastic bags are affordable, which makes them a great option for people on a budget. You could even put your clothes in plastic bags, and then put the plastic bags in cardboard boxes for an affordable way to keep your clothes safe.

Avoid hangers

Many people will store their clothes on hangers, even long term. Doing this can lead to the shoulders having permanent damage where the ends of the hanger went into the clothes. It also could lead to the neck of a shirt becoming stretched.

Use Cedar

Cedar naturally repels bugs and rodents, which can help keep your clothes safe when you are storing them. While there are cedar boxes you could store your items in, that would be expensive and heavy. A more affordable option is to purchase cedar blocks and add them to your clothing storage container.

Ace Self Storage: Long term clothes storage

If you have clothing or other items you are looking to store, whether long term or short term, consider using Ace Self Storage in San Diego, California.  We just opened a new storage facility in Miramar. We offer great rates, including move-in specials, we have month-to-month contracts with online bill pay, and we provide awesome customer service. Contact Ace Self Storage to enquire about availability today!