Here are 10 space-saving tips to properly keep your winter clothing and other seasonal items organised and ready for when the right season comes.
Maximise your storage efficiency and maintain a well-organised space by implementing these simple strategies for storing your winter clothing and other seasonal items. By following these tips, you can ensure that your clothes are neatly organised and readily available when the appropriate season arrives so you will have a seamless transition without clutter or chaos.
10 simple steps to keep and organise seasonal clothing in a space-saving way:
1. Make sure all items are clean and completely dry before storing to prevent mould or mildew growth.
Before storing your winter clothing, make sure everything is freshly laundered and completely dry. This precaution will prevent the growth of mould and mildew during storage and help preserve the quality of your garments. By starting with clean and dry items, you’ll have peace of mind knowing your clothes will be ready to wear when the cold weather returns.
2. Fold clothing neatly to minimise wrinkles and maximise space.
Neatly folding your winter clothes before storing them not only minimises wrinkles but also maximises the available storage space. This organised approach makes it easier to locate specific items when you need them, saving you time and frustration. Plus, well-folded clothes are less likely to become creased or damaged while in storage so you also help prolong their lifespan.
Sort your clothes according to their type and organise them in separate bins to maintain order. For example, you can designate bins for coats, tops, thermal base layers, and accessories.
TIP: Store your clothes upright to make it easier to see what you have. You can also sort them by colour to help you coordinate outfits more easily.
3. Choose storage bins that fit nicely in your space.
When selecting storage bins, prioritise ones that fit well in your designated storage area to maximise space utilisation. While plastic bins provide superior protection against dust, pests, and moisture, you can also consider using lightweight fabric storage cases as they offer space-saving benefits.
What about vacuum sealing?
Vacuum sealing helps reduce the storage space needed when storing bulky winter clothes, but you should refrain from relying on it if you plan to store your clothes for a very long time. Vacuum sealing is only recommended for storing sturdy garments or for short periods of time; otherwise, they may not regain their original shapes. Prolonged compression in a vacuum-sealed bag can flatten insulation or deform the structure.
4. Add moisture-absorbing products to control humidity.
Ensure your chosen storage bins are equipped with moisture-absorbing products to prevent dampness and mold growth. Regardless of the material of your bins, you should place desiccant products such as silica gel or activated charcoal, into your storage to help regulate humidity levels inside. This will further preserve the condition of your clothing over time.
TIP: Replace these products regularly as needed or when they start to get saturated to maintain their effectiveness in controlling moisture levels within the bins. Actively managing humidity helps safeguard your winter clothing and seasonal items from potential damage during storage.
5. Use storage containers to organise small items.
Utilise smaller storage containers within your bins to organise accessories such as socks, gloves, and scarves. This compartmentalisation not only streamlines the storage process but also facilitates easy retrieval of specific items when needed. When you keep similar items together, you avoid rummaging through cluttered bins and locate what you need with minimal effort.
6. Label your bins to identify their contents.
Labelling your storage bins with descriptive tags or markers helps you quickly identify their contents at a glance. This simple yet effective system saves time and reduces frustration when searching for specific items, especially when you have multiple storage containers. Additionally, clear labelling promotes organisation and encourages consistent storage practices, ensuring that everything has its designated place.
TIP: Using pictures alongside text when labelling can enhance clarity and accessibility. Pictures provide visual cues that can help convey information more effectively, making it easier for people to understand the content at a glance. This can be particularly useful for labelling items or organising storage bins in settings such as households where multiple people may need to access the labeled items.
7. Make sure the bins are sealed to keep out moisture, dust, and pests.
Confirm that the lids of your storage bins are securely sealed to prevent moisture, dust, and pests from infiltrating the contents. Proper sealing maintains the integrity of your stored items and minimises the risk of damage or contamination.
TIP: Regularly inspect the bins and replace them when they become damaged or worn-out to maintain optimal storage conditions.
8. Store the bins in a dry, cool area away from direct sunlight.
Choose a storage location that is dry, cool, and shielded from direct sunlight to preserve the quality of your clothings. Exposure to sunlight can cause fading and deterioration of fabrics over time, while excessive heat and humidity may promote mould growth. Selecting an appropriate storage environment helps prolong the lifespan of your stored items.
9. Opt for cedar chips instead of mothballs for a natural pest deterrent.
Consider using cedar chips as a natural alternative to mothballs for deterring pests such as moths and insects. Cedar’s aromatic properties repel pests without the strong chemical odour associated with mothballs, making it a safer and more environmentally friendly option.
Place cedar chips in your cabinet or wardrobe to create an effective barrier against unwanted pests. Avoid putting them directly in contact with your clothes, as they may cause staining or damage. Let the cedar’s natural aroma permeate the space while safeguarding your clothing.
10. Air out seasonal clothing regularly.
Regularly air out your seasonal clothing every few months, especially if they have been stored for an extended period in enclosed spaces. This practice helps prevent musty odours and moisture buildup, preserving the freshness and condition of your garments. If you detect any signs of mustiness or dampness during airing, take prompt action to address the issue and ensure the continued protection of your stored items.
Storing winter clothing and other seasonal items in limited space requires careful planning and organisation. The above tips aim to help you in maintaining your clothes in good condition, ensuring they are readily available for future use.
Products I use:
Storage cases: IKEA SKUBB
Reusable Desiccant Sheet: Daiso
Small storage containers: Daiso
Cedar chips: MUJI Red Cedar Block
