How to Store Clothes for Long Term: 10 Expert Tips
No matter how hard you try, it always feels like there’s never enough storage space in your home. That’s why seasonal packing is such a smart solution. But do you know the best way to store your clothes for the long term?
By rotating your wardrobe each season, you not only free up your living space but also reduce the overwhelming clutter of unnecessary clothing choices.
Let’s be real, a well-organized closet can make getting dressed so much easier. So, today we’re sharing our expert tips for preparing clothes for long-term storage and ensuring they stay in neat condition.
1. Evaluate and Sort Your Wardrobe for Storage
First things first, before you start packing things away, take a moment to do a quick wardrobe refresh. Yes, it’s a tedious task, but trust us, it’s worth your while.
Go through your clothes one by one and think about their condition, fit, and how often you really wear it. Because let’s face it, if you haven’t worn a piece of clothing at all during the past three years, will you ever really wear it? So sort and toss.
The less you store, the better you’ll preserve the items you really love and actually wear.
Donating, reselling, or gifting clothes you no longer need will free up space for the pieces you truly want to keep and protect

2. Wash Everything Before Storing
Before packing away your clothes for the season, make sure to give everything a good wash and dry. This helps prevent any unwanted mold or mildew from forming while they’re stored away.
If you’ve got any damaged items, take the time to mend them now—it’ll save you from bigger headaches later on. Don’t forget to tackle any stains now too because you don’t want them setting in while the clothes are packed away. You might even want to use a cleaning product specifically designed for storing clothes to keep everything fresh.
It’ll make all the difference when you pull them out next season!
3. Keep Your Clothes Dry
Aside from washing and cleaning, the most important step to remember is ensuring everything is completely dry before you store it away. Any lingering moisture can lead to mold, mildew, or even musty odors, all of which can seriously damage your clothes.
Take the time to properly dry your clothes either by blow drying it or using a tumble dryer. It will help keep everything in proper shape and ready for the next year.
4. Polish Boots and Shoes
Let’s not forget about shoes, especially boots! They can be tricky to store since they often take up more space and need a little extra care and attention.
To keep them looking their best, make sure to clean and polish them before packing them away. For leather boots, rubbing in some oil will help keep the material supple, but remember to store them separately from your other clothes to avoid any stains or marks.
Another pro hack: stuff them with clean tissue paper to keep their original shape and make them last longer for you.
5. Choose the Best Storage Containers
Here’s one step you definitely shouldn’t skip—choosing the right storage containers. It can make a world of difference when it comes to keeping your clothes in good condition.
Start with plastic containers or bins to keep everything clean, dry, and dust-free. For more delicate pieces like woolens and silk, breathable garment bags or cloth storage bags are perfect because they’ll keep them fresh and allow them to breathe.
It’s important to choose containers that suit the type of clothing you’re storing, so take a moment to select the right one rather than just grabbing whatever’s nearby.
And for long-term storage, avoid using cardboard boxes or plastic bags as they can trap moisture. If space is tight, vacuum-sealed bags are a lifesaver, shrinking your clothes down while keeping them in tip-top shape. It’s amazing how much extra room you’ll have.

6. Consider Renting a Storage Unit
If your home feels cramped, renting a storage unit can help you declutter and stay organized. It’s an excellent option for long-term storage—it offers a safe, dedicated space where you can store clothing items you don’t use every day while freeing up room at home.
Plus, many storage units offer climate control, which is a bonus for preserving delicate fabrics and preventing moisture damage.
Some even give you 24/7 access so you can grab what you need whenever you want.
And remember, the same care applies whether you’re storing clothes off-site or at home: always ensure your items are clean, dry, and packed properly to prevent damage.
7. Pack Them Properly for Long Term Storage
When packing your clothes for long-term storage, it’s important to be both organized and thoughtful about how you do it.
Start by packing things in a logical order so that everything is easy to find and access when you need it.
Avoid using plastic bags for long-term storage, as they can trap moisture and cause damage—packing paper or tissue paper is a much better option. It helps separate garments and prevent creasing.
8. Avoid Hard Fold Lines or Creases
If you want to prevent creasing and damage, place garments in a storage box without sharp folds.
Separate items with tissue paper or cotton sheets to keep them in the best shape. This not only helps prevent creases but also keeps delicate fabrics safe.
When possible, hang clothes that can be safely suspended, like coats or suits, to maintain their form. For garments that need to be folded, consider rolling them gently instead of folding them tightly to prevent damage.

9. Avoid Wire Hangers
When storing clothes for the long-term, avoid wire hangers—they may seem convenient but they can cause permanent dents and stretching, especially in heavier items.
Instead, opt for sturdy plastic or wooden hangers for better support. For your delicate items like dresses or coats, choose padded hangers to prevent any fabric damage.
It’s simple: using the right hangers helps preserve the shape and condition of your clothes so they’ll look as good as new when you’re ready to wear them again.
10. Refold Your Clothes Every Few Years
If you don’t rotate your wardrobe seasonally, make it a habit to visit your storage unit every one to two years to refold your clothes. This prevents permanent creasing and gives you the chance to inspect their condition.
Regular check-ins allow you to spot potential issues—such as pests, water damage, or stains— before they become serious problems.
By staying on top of things, you ensure your clothes remain in good shape for longer.
Your Clothes, Safe and Sound at My Storage Box
And there you have it! With a little planning and care, storing your clothes for the long term can be easy and stress-free.
Whether you’re packing them away for the season or just need extra space, these expert tips will help you keep them in top condition.
If you’re looking for a secure, easy, and accessible storage unit, My Storage Box offers a facility with 24/7 access, gated entry, and video surveillance.
Renting your unit is straightforward with online booking, and you can enjoy automatic payments with no deposit or move-in fees. Whether you need extra space for seasonal clothing or want to store clothes long term, My Storage Box ensures your items are safely stored in a clean, well-maintained environment. Visit My Storage Box for hassle-free storage solutions.