Can I Store Clothing Long-term?

 

Closet Chaos? Here’s How to Store Your Clothes Like a Pro

We’ve all been there—closet stuffed with winter coats, drawers jammed with shorts and swimsuits. When you think of storing your clothing, you might envision plastic bins or clothing bags, but if your wardrobe is taking over your living space, it might be time to call in reinforcements: a self storage unit. But how do you store clothes the right way? Here’s our quick guide to storing clothes without ruining them. 

Christmas Tree Storage


Start Smart

  • First, sort things out. Haven’t worn it in a year? It might be time to let it go. There’s no sense in storing what you won’t wear again, so take the time now to downsize your wardrobe and give wearable pieces a second chance by donating. Don’t forget to check pockets!
  • Once you’ve whittled down your wardrobe, sort by season. Trust us—this is one favor you’ll be glad you did for yourself. Label items like swimsuits, fall sweaters and winter boots and you’ll never have to dig when the weather changes.
  • Two words: clean and dry.  Always wash and/or dry clean clothes before placing them in storage. Dirty garments can attract pests, and even invisible stains like sweat or body oils will set in permanently over time and may cause odors. The cleaner the clothes in your self storage unit, the better overall air quality you’ll have for everything you store. 


Treat Your Wardrobe Well

  • Choose plastic over cardboard. Plastic bins with fitted lids are the best choice for long-term clothing storage, provided all items inside are 100% dry. Cardboard doesn’t hold up against moisture, pests or odors, so skip the boxes for storing garments. To keep your clothing extra fresh, line bins with acid-free tissue paper or cedar blocks made for clothing to help ward off mold and mildew, and pack loosely to allow some airflow.
  • Wool, leather and other delicate fabrics will undoubtedly benefit from the stable temperature and humidity levels. These fabrics are often more expensive, and they’re more prone to fabric breakdown and musty odors, so protect yours with a climate-control storage unit like you’ll find at your local Moove In facility. Bonus tip: Pamper light delicates like silk or cashmere by rolling up and storing in a clean pillowcase.

Fun Moove In Storage Couple

 

Little Things, Big Protection

 

  • Avoid vacuum-sealing. Sure, it can save space, but vacuum sealed bags aren’t ideal for long-term storage. Compressing fabrics tightly for an extended time can cause permanent creasing and damage the structure of natural fibers. To maintain the integrity and feel of your fabrics, gently fold and place in breathable containers.
  • Go the extra mile. Even in the cleanest self storage facilities, it’s smart to take some extra precautions. Moisture absorbers like silica gel packs or DampRid containers can control any accidental moisture or humidity. Natural pest repellants, like cedar blocks, lavender sachets can help deter invaders like moths without using harsh chemicals. 
  • Avoid hanging heavy items. Clothing racks are great space savers, and they can help prevent creasing and wrinkles, but heavy items like winter coats or formal suits can stretch out or get permanent “hanger bumps” on the shoulders. Wire hangers are a common culprit. Many dry cleaners use them, so keep this in mind if you plan to have items cleaned right before storing.

 

Christmas Tree Storage


Say goodbye to closet clutter.

With the time and money you spend curating a wardrobe you love, it only makes sense to store your clothing the smart way. Whether you’re a fashionista, a seasonal swapper or just storing what the kids have outgrown, a local self-storage unit can bring order back to your home. 

Reclaim your closet, breathe easier and store smart. Call us at Moove In and we’ll help you find the right self storage solution to save space and keep your style safe, too. 

...
Cash In on Clutter: How to Host a Successful Yard Sale

Thursday, August 7, 2025

Turn clutter into cash! Use self storage to prep, organize, and protect items before your next yard sale—and boost your profits with ease.

...
10 Storage Tips for Military Families On the Moove

Thursday, August 7, 2025

Military move coming up? Discover 10 expert storage tips to stay organized, protect your gear, and simplify PCS transitions with self storage.

...
Storing Art: What You Need to Know First

Wednesday, August 6, 2025

Storing art? Don’t risk damage. Learn how to protect paintings, prints, and photos with smart packing and climate-controlled self storage.