September 2005 - Tip of the Month - Summer Storage Solutions

Autumn breezes bring a “nip” to the air, reminding us that winter is not far away. This means it’s time to store your spring and summer wardrobe to make room for warmer clothing. Here are some tips for storing your warm weather garments:

Preparation:

Separate your garments. Remove all spring and summer clothing from your closet. Keep only those wardrobe staples that you may continue to wear throughout the fall either alone or as a layer, such as white camisoles and khaki pants.

Clean all your clothes properly. Your clothes may look clean and fresh, but many stains are invisible and can lead to damage if left to set over time. Unseen food stains such as light soda, white wine and body oils can lead to color fading and invite bugs and moths to dine on your clothing. Be sure to use appropriate laundry detergents and rinse thoroughly. Avoid bleaches and other harsh chemicals that can damage your items if not properly cleaned. Be aware that cleaning kits and products, such as Dryel, are strictly fresheners that make things smell better; they are not stain removers.

Environment:

Store in a dry, dark, cool and clean place. When looking for that perfect storage place, be sure to avoid wet and warm environments, such as an attic or basement. These are breeding grounds for moths, insects and mold. Also, avoid placing garments in a fume-filled garage or near heating ducts. Even though these areas may be convenient and out of the way, fumes and gases can affect dyes and discolor clothes. Whether you choose a spare closet or under a bed, make sure your storage area is clean.

Let your garments breathe. When storing your clothes, allow them room to breathe. Never use plastic bags or airtight containers that prevent airflow. Lack of ventilation can cause moisture to collect over time, causing mildew. We recommend using a well-ventilated box or closet, where clothes are protected from bugs and dust, but still have enough space for air circulation and ventilation.

Add a natural touch. Mothballs are effective at stopping insects from taking up residence in your clothing, but they usually don’t leave a pleasant aroma. Instead, use cedar chips or lavender blocks. They have a more pleasant fragrance and still naturally ward off insects!

Techniques:

Use hangers for delicates. Hanging may be your best option when storing suits, pants and blouses. Remember that plastic or padded hangers work best. When used in conjunction with garment fasteners, your items will stay well positioned and are less likely to suffer clothing distortion. Hang pants from the cuff or hem, preferably using pant hangers. This way you avoid creating annoying creases that can be hard to iron out.

Fold woven garments. Don’t waste valuable hanger space on t-shirts or light sweatshirts. Hanging such items distorts their shape and leaves imprints in the shoulders next spring. Instead, neatly fold and stack them on shelves or in ventilated boxes. For added protection, wrap them in acid-free tissue paper.

We offer seasonal storage in our airtight, temperature-controlled vaults, which maintain the right atmosphere for clothing storage. For more information about storing your clothes at Dependable Cleaners, please visit the store nearest you or call 617-471-1900.

Select from the pull down menu for past articles.