How to Store Clothing in a Storage Unit

When it comes to the clothing in your closet, petite piles become peaks faster than you can say, “Omg, am I a hoarder?” You soon face the decision as to whether you’ll keep, store, or toss each piece.

Use these tips and helpful hints for clothing that falls in the “store” category.

How to Store Clothes in a Storage Unit

  • Perfect your pieces before packing. Wash, dry, and iron all of your pieces. Even the slightest shirt stain can become permanent if it sits in storage for too long. Get out every spot before you store.
  • Pick plastic. Put your clothing in plastic vacuum bags to maximize space. Store multiple bags in airtight plastic bins.
  • Utilize cedar balls. More effective than mothballs, cedar balls naturally protect clothes from moths and mildew. Bonus: They also have a fresh, wood scent.
  • Choose the correct climate. Temperature and humidity are key for maintaining the quality of your clothing. Fluctuations in temperature can damage sensitive fabrics. And if moisture is present, mold and mildew can easily grow. Materials that call for a climate-controlled unit include:
    • Furs
    • Leather
    • Wool

How to Store Hanging Clothes in a Storage Unit

  • Avoid metal hangers. Use plastic or felt hangers. Metal hangers rust easily and may damage your garments.
  • Use wardrobe boxes. Wardrobe boxes come with built-in hanging rods and are easy to stack.
  • Space it. No need to cram! The quality of your clothing largely depends on temperature and airflow. When hanging garments, space out each item the width of 2 fingers. This will allow room for air to circulate. For sensitive items like fur, hang from the shoulders and space 3 fingers from other items. Ask the manager at your storage facility which units are best for clothing storage.

It’s fine to have a lot of clothes—as long as you keep your overflow stored correctly!

More clothing tips:

1 thought on “How to Store Clothing in a Storage Unit”

  1. I like your idea to vacuum seal our clothes to save space. My daughter is moving to a very small apartment and wants to find a nearby storage unit for seasonal items such as clothing. I’ll share this info to help her use the space in the self-storage unit efficiently!

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