The Smart Way to Store Your Winter Clothes
These easy steps keep cold-weather gear bug- and mildew-free -- because, yes, winter will be back again before you know it.
First Steps
Clean everything before you get started. Lingering oils (deodorants, perfumes) can discolor fabric over time -- and food stains will attract moths. 70°F (or below) is the target storage temp to avoid damaging fibers or setting stains, and low light and low humidity are ideal. Don't plan on storing in dry-cleaning bags (they can yellow fabrics and trap moisture), and don't iron with starch -- bugs love it!
Related: 10 Tips to Your Fastest Laundry Day Ever
Coats
Do up buttons, zip up zippers, and empty out pockets; then hang structured or down coats on thick wooden hangers ($17 for two, honeycando.com) inside a breathable canvas garment bag ($15, casa.com). Polyfill-stuffed coats can go in vacuum-seal bags, compressed halfway for space.
Accessories
Place gloves and rolled-up scarves loosely together in a plastic bin. Stuff shaped hats with tissue paper before placing in a hatbox ($25 for two, containerstore.com) or another breathable container.
Related: You Think These Things Are Dirty, But They're Surprisingly Clean
Boots and Shoes
Remove dirt from rubber and lug soles with a wire brush, then clean the rest with a shoe brush ($9, footfitter.com). Sprinkle in baking soda, tuck in shoe trees, and stuff legs with white tissue paper ($1 for 15 sheets, dollargeneral.com). Store boots upright.
Related: 8 Secrets Only Personal Organizers Know
Sweaters
Fold into thirds, then in half, and stack in a plastic bin ($78 for eight, wayfair.com) with heaviest knits on the bottom. Place white tissue paper between layers if color transfer is a concern or to keep any embellishments from snagging.
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