How to store winter clothes for the summer

When spring comes, winter coats, thick sweaters and extra blankets take up space you need for summer clothes. Stored well, they come out in autumn fresh and ready to wear. Stored badly, they come out creased, musty or full of moth holes.

Step 1: wash everything first

Never store clothes dirty, even if they look clean. Invisible stains of food and sweat turn yellow over the months, and they attract moths. Wash or air everything before you store it, and let it dry completely. A damp sweater in a closed bag gets moldy.

Wash wool on a wool program in cold water, and dry it flat. Wash rain jackets at thirty degrees without fabric softener.

Step 2: sort

This is the moment to be honest. Did you wear it this winter? If not, will you wear it next winter? Give away or recycle what you don’t need. Less to store means more space.

Step 3: choose the right storage

Different things need different storage.

• Vacuum storage bags, set of 4: for duvets, pillows, blankets and bulky synthetic jackets. They shrink to a quarter of their size and keep out dust, moisture and moths. Don’t use them for down, leather or wool for many months; those need some air.
• Under-bed storage bags, 2 pieces: for wool sweaters, scarves and hats. The fabric breathes, and the window lets you see what is inside.
• Storage box with lid, 45 liters: for boots, gloves and anything you want to stack in the attic.
• Clear shoe boxes, set of 6: for winter boots and shoes.
• Clothes rack on wheels, with a cover: for coats you want to keep hanging.

Step 4: protect against moths

Moths love wool, especially when it is unwashed. Put a few pieces of cedar wood or a small bag of dried lavender in each bag or box. Check your stored wool once in the middle of summer.

Step 5: fold, don’t hang, knitwear

Heavy knitted sweaters stretch on a hanger and get bumps in the shoulders. Fold them and store them flat. Coats and jackets are better on wide wooden clothes hangers, which keep the shoulders in shape.

Step 6: label

Write on each box or bag what is inside. In October, you will be glad you did.

Where to store

Choose a dry, dark, cool place. Under the bed, on the top shelf of a wardrobe or in a dry attic works well. Avoid damp basements and sheds, and avoid direct sunlight, which fades colors.

In autumn

Take everything out a few days before you need it. Shake it out and hang it in the air for a day. Creases fall out, and the stored smell disappears.