How to Store Winter Clothes the Right Way

Source: Getty Images
With the first day of Spring upon us, the dark days of winter are coming to an end and that means boxing up all those sweaters, coats, boots and scarves.
But before you go stashing away those winter goodies haphazardly in your excitement to start wearing sandals, summer dresses and shorts, follow these tips on how to store winter clothes the right way.
Wash Everything Before Storing Source: Pinterest
Food stains and body odor left on clothing is not only gross, it also attracts mold, moths and bugs. So before stashing the winter wear, wash or dry clean everything. If dry cleaning, do not store in the dry cleaning bag as it inhibits airflow and is an ideal environment for mold to ruin your best clothes.
Invest in Plastic Bins While it’s convenient to store clothes in vacuum sealed space saver bags, they aren’t the best for your clothes. Fabric needs room to breathe to avoid mold and fabric deterioration. Professionals suggest using plastic bins to store folded winter clothes, placing heavier items towards the bottom of the box and lighter items on top. To avoid any color transfer, or snagging, place tissue paper in between the layers. If you must use a vacuum sealed bag due to lack of storage, only compress it half way to allow some airflow.
Delicate Items and Cashmere Source: Pinterest
Store delicates, silks and cashmere items in specifically designed breathable fabric storage bags.
Dark, Cool and Dry Store winter clothes in an area of your house that is dark, cool and dry. High humidity and light will promote mold growth on your stored clothes. Also avoid placing in dusty areas.
Boots Love Boot Trees Source: Pinterest
To keep those knee-high boots in shape until next winter invest in boot trees. They will keep your cherished boots standing up right, so the next time there’s a chill in the air your boots will be ready to go. For winter shoes stuff with tissue paper.
Fold Winter Coats It may be tempting to leave winter coats hanging in the closet, but professionals suggest folding and placing in a plastic bin instead. This will help retain the shape of the coat. However, if your coat is made of fur it should always be hung, but you may want to consider storing it professionally as fur needs to be kept in a climate controlled environment.