How to store seasonal clothing so it lasts

Short answer: Wash everything before you put it away, store it dry and airy, and lay heavy items flat. Dirt and sweat attract pests, and damp leads to odour and mould. Follow those three rules and your clothes will come out next season in the same state you packed them.

Wash first

Even invisible dirt and sweat attract moths and other pests. Clothes that look clean after a day of wear still have skin residue in the fibres, and that is what moths feed on. So everything should be washed before it is packed away for a season. Follow the care label and let the clothes dry completely afterwards. See washing and care.

Completely dry

A single item that is still slightly damp can make a whole box musty. The moisture spreads to the other clothes, and after a few months in the dark you get odour and mould spots. Let clothes hang an extra day before packing them. This matters most for thick items like duvets and bedding, which dry slowly from the inside. See bamboo bedding.

Air rather than plastic

Airtight plastic bags and vacuum bags trap the moisture already in the clothes and the air. That leads to a stale smell and, at worst, mould. Fabric bags, cotton sacks and boxes with lids that do not seal fully are better because air can circulate. An old duvet cover works well as a bag for larger items.

Lay heavy items flat

Knitwear and heavy jumpers should lie, not hang. Left on a hanger for months, the weight slowly pulls the shoulders out of shape and leaves bumps that will not go away. Fold them loosely and place them on top so other clothes do not press them flat. Lighter items like T-shirts and underwear can go underneath. See bamboo underwear for men.

Choose the right place

A cool, dry and dark place is best. Lofts and basements can be too damp or swing widely in temperature. A cupboard, a bed with drawers or a wardrobe inside your home is often safer. Avoid direct sunlight, which can fade colours even through a thin fabric bag.

Keep moths away

As well as washing, you can hang cedar wood or lavender sachets in the cupboard. They do not replace washing, but they make the space less appealing to moths. Check the boxes once in the middle of the season so you spot problems early. If you see small holes or webbing, wash everything in that box again.

Fold rather than press

Clothes squeezed tightly together get sharp creases that can be hard to remove, especially in thin fabrics. Fold loosely and leave a little air in the box. Underwear and socks can be rolled so they take up less space without creasing. That way everything is ready to wear when you take it out.

Check before wearing

Shake and air the clothes for a day before wearing them again. The slightly stale smell disappears, and you can look for holes, stains or loose seams before the item goes back into use. If something still smells, give it a normal wash. See bamboo underwear for women.

Frequently asked questions

Should clothes be washed before storing

Yes. Sweat and invisible dirt attract moths, even on clothes that look clean. Follow the care label and let everything dry completely before packing it away.