Storing clothes in a non-climate-controlled storage unit can be economical for those looking to save money on their storage fees. It is also beneficial to store clothing items that are not likely to be affected by extreme temperatures or humidity, such as jeans and t-shirts. Non-climate-controlled units provide basic protection from the elements, but it is important to take extra steps when storing clothes in these units.
Non-climate-controlled storage offers many advantages for storing clothes. One of the most important advantages is that such units are much more affordable than climate-controlled units since they require fewer resources to maintain. Additionally, nonclimate controlled storage can prevent the growth of mildew and other moisture-related issues, which can damage clothing if stored in a humid environment. You can find step-by-step instructions on how to store clothes in non climate controlled storage in this blog article.
Step by Step Processes for How to Store Clothes in Non Climate Controlled Storage
Step 1: Inspect Your Clothes
Before you store your clothes in non-climate-controlled storage, it is important to inspect them for any signs of damage or wear. Ensure all buttons and zippers are firmly attached and that there are no rips, tears, stains, or discoloration.
Step 2: Sort By Season
Once you have inspected your clothes, the next step is to sort them by season. This will make it easier to find what you need when you are ready to wear them again. Before you place your clothes in storage, it is best practice to wash each item individually or have them dry cleaned where needed. Washing and drying each piece of clothing ensures that any dirt, dust, or potential pests cannot accumulate.
Step 3: Dry Thoroughly
Once you have washed and dried each item, it is important to ensure it is scorched before storing it in non-climate-controlled storage. Moisture can cause mildew or mold growth on fabric, further damaging the clothing. To prevent your clothes from having creases and wrinkles when you take them out of storage, it is a good idea to iron each piece before putting them away. This can help keep them looking presentable for longer.
Step 4: Hang Clothes
All clothing that can be hung should be hung on hangers before placing in storage. This will help prevent the fabric from becoming stretched out or misshapen. Lightweight, breathable fabric storage bins are ideal for storing clothes in non-climate-controlled storage. Ensure the lids are securely fastened and you can easily access the items once they have been placed inside.
Step 5: Add Cedar Blocks
Adding cedar blocks to your storage bins can help deter pests and unpleasant odors. Be sure to replace the cedar blocks every few months for optimal results. Be sure to place your clothes in a cool, dry location that is out of direct sunlight. Remember that non-climate-controlled storage does not offer temperature or humidity control, so avoid storing your clothing in areas with high temperatures or significant fluctuations.
Step 6: Check Periodically
As with any storage solution, it is important to check on the condition of your clothes periodically. Being proactive and regularly inspecting your items can help you catch any potential issues before they become bigger problems.
By following these steps for how to store clothes in non-climate-controlled storage, you can ensure that your clothing remains safe and well-preserved during long-term storage.
Safety Tips for How to Store Clothes in Non Climate Controlled Storage
- Choose the right storage container for your clothes. Use plastic bins with tight-fitting lids to limit dust and pests from entering the storage space. Avoid cardboard boxes, as they are more likely to absorb moisture and may attract pests.
- Wash all clothes before you store them away to remove any dirt or dust that may be on them, as this will help to minimize damage caused by pests.
- Place all clothes in airtight containers or vacuum-sealed bags before storing them away. This will help keep out dust and pests while also reducing the risk of mold growth over time.
- Keep clothes off the floor of your storage space and avoid stacking boxes too high so they don’t fall.
- Place a desiccant in the storage container with your clothes to help absorb any moisture that may be present. This will help protect your clothing from mold, mildew, and damage caused by pests.
- Inspect your storage space regularly for signs of pests or water damage to ensure your clothes remain safe.
- If possible, store your clothes in a climate-controlled storage unit to ensure that temperature and humidity levels remain constant and safe for your clothing. This will help keep them looking their best for longer periods.
By following these safety tips, you can be sure that your clothing is properly stored away in non climate-controlled storage and protected from damage caused by dust, pests, and other environmental factors.
What is the Best Way to Store Clothes in Non-Climate Controlled Storage?
When storing clothes in non-climate-controlled storage, it is important to take the right steps to ensure they stay safe and in good condition. The following tips can help you keep your clothes looking their best while in storage:
- Use Containers: When storing clothes in a non climate-controlled storage unit, use containers such as plastic bins or garment bags. This will help keep your clothes from getting dirty and dust free.
- Clean Clothes: Before putting any clothing items into storage, ensure they are clean and dry. Any dirt or moisture left on the fabric can attract insects or cause mildew growth over time.
- Avoid Plastic Bags: While plastic bags may seem like a good idea when it comes to storing clothes, they can trap moisture and cause the fabric to deteriorate over time. Instead, opt for breathable containers or garment bags.
- Avoid Hanging Clothes: Hanging clothes in a non climate-controlled storage unit is not recommended, as humidity can easily gather around them and cause damage to the fabric. Instead, fold the clothes neatly and place them in bins or garment bags.
- Use Cedar Blocks: If you are looking for a natural way to keep your clothes smelling fresh, cedar blocks can be placed inside the containers with the clothing. The smell of cedar also helps repel insects and moths away from your garments.
Following these steps when storing clothes in non-climate controlled storage will help you ensure that they stay in great condition and are ready to be used again. Using the right containers, cleaning the garments before storing them, avoiding plastic bags and hanging clothes, and using cedar blocks will help your clothing last longer while in storage.
Are There Any Specific Items That Should Not Be Stored This Way?
Yes, certain items should not be stored in non-climate-controlled storage. Leather and fur garments react poorly to low or fluctuating temperatures and humidity levels. They can become dry and brittle over time, leading to cracking or crumbling of the materials. Additionally, items with metal components such as zippers, buttons, or snaps may suffer from rusting due to humid or damp conditions. In addition to leather and fur, other delicate fabrics such as silk, wool, and rayon should not be stored in non-climate-controlled units due to the risk of fiber damage.
Organic materials like wood furniture or clothing with natural fibers should also not be placed in non-climate-controlled storage. When exposed to extreme temperatures or humidity, these items can warp over time, leading to irreparable damage. Artwork and keepsakes such as photographs, posters, paintings, documents, and books should all be avoided in non-climate-controlled storage units for similar reasons. In general, any delicate or sensitive items to the environment should never be stored in a non-climate-controlled unit.
How Should You Protect Your Clothes From Damage During Transit and Storage?
When you move or store clothes in non-climate controlled storage, it’s important to protect them from dirt, dust, and damage. Here are some tips for packing and storing your garments:
- Use Good Quality Boxes: Choose sturdy cardboard boxes that won’t collapse when moving or storing clothes. Avoid plastic bins for long-term storage – they don’t provide enough ventilation.
- Clean Clothes Before Packing: Ensure all clothes are clean and dust-free before you pack them away. If they’re not, dirt can accumulate and cause damage to the fabric over time.
- Pack Carefully: Wrap delicate fabrics in tissue paper or bubble wrap to prevent creasing and keep them separate from each other when packing.
- Hang Clothes on Hangers: If you’re storing clothes that can be hung, use sturdy coat hangers and hang them in a wardrobe or organize them onto a rail to save space.
- Place Clothing in Garment Bags: Use breathable garment bags for long-term storage or if you need to store items of clothing that are likely to get dusty.
- Use Cedar Balls: Place cedar balls, commonly used for keeping moths away, in the bottom of boxes or garment bags to help keep clothes fresh and prevent musty odors from developing.
By following these tips, you can ensure your clothes stay safe and secure when being stored in non climate-controlled storage. With the right preparation, you can keep your garments in excellent condition for many years.
Conclusion
In conclusion, storing clothes in non-climate-controlled storage is possible, provided you take key precautions. Wash and dry any items before storing them, pack them in airtight containers or plastic bags, and use mothballs to keep insect pests away. Additionally, store items off the floor to avoid mold growth and add cedar chips for further protection against pests. Taking these steps can ensure that your clothes remain in good condition during storage.
With the right preparation and care, you can safely store your clothing without worrying about damage from pests or temperature fluctuations. This article has been beneficial in learning how to store clothes in non climate controlled storage. Make Sure the preventive measures are followed chronologically.
