How To · Fashion · Storage
Store Seasonal Clothing Without Damage
Seasonal storage doesn't require expensive solutions—just strategic preparation and the right containers. Learn how to pack away winter coats and summer dresses so they emerge ready to wear.
5 min read · IrisThe difference between clothes that emerge from storage fresh and those that don't comes down to three things: cleanliness, environment, and containment. Most damage happens because we store pieces dirty, in humid spaces, or without protection from pests.
You don't need specialty garment bags or cedar closets to do this right. A few strategic choices—about what you clean before packing, where you store, and what you pack with—will keep your seasonal pieces intact for years.
Store only clean clothes. Stains set during months of storage and become nearly impossible to remove.
What you'll need.
- 01Clear plastic bins with tight-fitting lids
- 02Acid-free tissue paper
- 03Cedar blocks or sachets
- 04Dried lavender (optional alternative)
- 05Moisture-absorbing packets
- 06Garment steamer or iron
Step one · 2 minutes
Clean everything before packing
Wear, sweat, and invisible body oils attract moths and mildew. Wash or dry-clean all pieces—even items that look clean. Pay special attention to underarms, necklines, and hems where bacteria settle. Let everything air-dry completely before folding; any residual moisture invites mold.
If dry-cleaning, remove plastic bags immediately and let garments breathe for 24 hours before storage.
Step two · 1 minute
Choose the right container
Avoid cardboard boxes and plastic bags that trap moisture. Use plastic bins with tight-fitting lids, or breathable cotton storage bags. Plastic bins protect from pests and humidity; cotton bags allow air circulation. Label everything clearly so you don't have to open bins searching for a specific sweater.
Clear plastic bins let you see contents without opening them, saving time when you need something mid-season.
Step three · 2 minutes
Layer with acid-free tissue and cedar
Place acid-free tissue paper between folded items to prevent creasing and color transfer. Add cedar blocks, cedar sachets, or dried lavender to deter moths naturally. Cedar works for 6–12 months; refresh it by lightly sanding the surface or replacing sachets. Avoid mothballs—they're toxic and leave chemical odors that linger for months.
Wrap delicate items like silk blouses individually in tissue before layering in the bin.
Step four · 2 minutes
Store in a cool, dry place
Choose a location away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and humidity. Basements and attics fluctuate with temperature and moisture—avoid them if possible. A bedroom closet, under-bed storage, or climate-controlled garage works better. Keep bins off the floor on shelves or pallets to prevent water damage if there's any flooding.
If your only option is a basement, use moisture-absorbing packets or a small dehumidifier nearby.
Step five · 2 minutes
Fold strategically to minimize wrinkles
Fold heavy knits and sweaters in thirds to distribute weight evenly. Roll lighter pieces like t-shirts and scarves to save space and reduce creasing. Never hang delicate or heavy items during storage—the weight stretches shoulders and distorts shapes. For coats, use padded hangers in a garment bag only if your closet is climate-controlled.
Knits are prone to stretching; fold them flat rather than hanging, even in your regular closet.
Step six · 1 minute
Refresh before wearing
When you retrieve stored clothes, let them air out for a few hours before wearing. Hang them in a well-ventilated space to release any mustiness. If wrinkles have set, a gentle steaming or low-heat ironing will restore them. Shake out folded items gently to restore their shape.
A quick wash or dry-clean after storage removes any dust or odors and prepares pieces for the season ahead.
How to know it works.
Properly stored clothes emerge ready to wear—no odors, stains, holes, or mildew. Your pieces will look and feel as good as the day you packed them away.
Questions at the mirror.
Can I use plastic bags to store clothes?
Avoid thin plastic bags—they trap moisture and encourage mold. Use thick plastic bins with ventilation holes or breathable cotton bags instead.
How often should I refresh cedar blocks?
Cedar loses potency after 6–12 months. Lightly sand the surface to reactivate the scent, or replace sachets entirely. Test by smelling—if you can't detect cedar, it's time to refresh.
What if I notice a musty smell when I open storage bins?
Remove clothes immediately and air them out in sunlight for a few hours. Wipe down the bin interior, add fresh cedar or lavender, and ensure your storage location is dry and well-ventilated.
Is it okay to store clothes in a damp basement?
Only if you use a dehumidifier nearby and keep bins elevated off the floor. Basements are risky—consider alternative storage if possible, as moisture causes mold and mildew even with precautions.