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Is it OK to store clothes in cardboard boxes?

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Storage Tips – How to Pack Clothes for Storage

Will you be storing clothes in your storage unit? We’ve got some great tips to improve your storage experience and how to properly pack clothing to ensure that it looks as good coming out of storage as it did going in.

TIP #1: CLEAN CLOTHES FIRST

Before packing clothes for storage, wash every single item of clothing. This will ensure your clothing stays fresher and increases their shelf-life. Most importantly, if you pack dirty clothes, chances are that any stains and odours contained within will settle in over time. You might never be able to wash the stains and smell away. Dirty clothes will also attract insects and other vermin. Make sure all of your clothes are completely dry before you pack them. This will help prevent mould, mildew and other odours from building up. Washing your clothes is also a great excuse to do some sorting. Use it as an opportunity for a wardrobe clean out—a chance to decide which items you want to keep and which you want to sell or donate. Remember, you pay for storage based on volume—don’t pay to store clothes that you’re never going to wear again.

TIP #2: STORE IN PLASTIC TUBS

The best way to store clothes in storage is to place all your clothes in airtight plastic containers with clip-on lids. These will protect your clothes from moisture, dust, mould and mildew. Make sure you give your plastic containers a good clean and dry them thoroughly before you place any clothes inside. For extra protection, you can line your plastic containers with clean, cotton sheets. And for particularly special items of clothing (such as a wedding dress or expensive vintage items), you may want to invest in acid free boxes lined with tissue paper, placed inside plastic containers.

TIP #3: AVOID STORING IN PLASTIC BAGS OR CARDBOARD BOXES

Never store clothing in plastic bags or cardboard boxes. Plastic bags trap moisture and cause mildew to form or cause the yellowing of fabrics, which quickly transfers to your clothing. Cardboard boxes are easily infiltrated by vermin and pests like silverfish. Also if your moving your boxes into storage on a rainy day and the box gets wet, the likelihood of the contents getting wet are pretty high.

TIP #4: AVOID VACUUM SEALING BAGS

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When you are looking for longer term storage (more than a few months), avoid packing clothes for storage using vacuum sealed bags. While vacuum sealed bags are a great way to save space and maximize your storage space, the effect that they can have on clothes can be detrimental. The lack of air inside a vacuum bag can cause natural fibres such as wool and silk to compress, ruining their shape and fit. Vacuum bags are fine for short-term storage, but should be avoided if you’re going to store long term. Delicate or special items, such as wedding dresses should never be kept in vacuum-sealed bags.

TIP #5: PACK PROPERLY

Pack your clothes with care. Heavier items should be placed at the bottom of your plastic tub and lighter, more delicate items at the top. You may find that you are able to fit more clothes into the same space if you roll them rather than fold them. Don’t over-stuff your container as your items may lose their shape and will be a real pain to iron once you have retrieved them.

TIP #6: PROTECT YOUR CLOTHES USING CEDAR BALLS

Cedar wood naturally protects clothes from moths, mildew and musty odours. So, the best way to store clothes in a storage unit always includes adding a few cedar balls. Best of all, wooden cedar balls last long term and offer a lovely, fragrant aroma. They are also a far superior option than any chemical treatments, which can leak and leave stains and toxic chemicals over time.

TIP #7: OPT FOR A PROFESSIONAL CLEAN, DRY STORAGE UNIT

Choosing a storage unit that is dry, clean and free from dust, vermin and other harmful elements will help to protect your clothes long term. Opt for a professional, secure storage space that will give your clothing the protection it deserves.

TIP #8: CHECK ON YOUR CLOTHING PERIODICALLY

Check on your clothing items in storage, at least once a year, to minimize the risk of the items getting damaged. The more frequently you check on your clothing, the quicker you’ll detect any problems. This will enable you to implement measures to prevent your clothes from becoming ruined.

lionsgatestorage.com - How to Pack Clothes for Storage - Lions Gate Mini Storage

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