3 Easy Steps to Prepare Your Winter Clothes for Storage
As winter comes to an end, it’s time to pack away bulky sweaters, coats, and scarves to make room for warmer-weather clothes. Storing winter items the right way helps prevent damage, odors, and surprise stains when cold weather returns. Follow these three easy steps to keep your winter wardrobe fresh and ready for next season.
Step 1: Wash Everything First
Before storing winter clothes, make sure every item is clean—even if it looks fine. Body oils, sweat, and food stains can settle into fabric over time and attract pests. Wash coats, sweaters, hats, and gloves according to their care labels. Dry items completely, as moisture can lead to mildew and musty smells. For delicate or bulky pieces, professional or large-capacity machines can make the process easier.
Never use fabric softener when you plan to store an item for any length of time. The fats in this product can cause unnecessary yellowing of the material. Also, try to use a product such as Rinse and Refresh to remove excess soap buildup before storage. Three rinse cycles are the recommended number to get your clothes cleaner and fresher than ever.
Don’t want all that hassle? Head to your local laundry service and let them do the laundry for you!
Step 2: Repair and Sort
Take a few minutes to check your winter clothes for loose buttons, small holes, or broken zippers. Fixing these now saves time and frustration later. Next, sort items by fabric type. Fold heavy sweaters instead of hanging them to prevent stretching, while structured coats can be stored on sturdy hangers. This step helps preserve the shape and lifespan of each piece.
Step 3: Store Smart
Choose breathable storage options like fabric bins or cotton garment bags. Avoid plastic bags, which can trap moisture. Add cedar blocks or lavender sachets to keep clothes smelling fresh and protect against pests. Store everything in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Label containers so finding your winter gear next season is quick and easy.
A little preparation now goes a long way. When winter returns, your clothes will be clean, organized, and ready to wear—no rewashing required. However, if you do want to freshen your laundry next winter, just use the Dryel system to give them a fresh start without a lot of hassle.