Seasonal Clothing Storage: How to Put Away Without Damage

The decisions you make when putting seasonal clothing into storage determine what condition it's in when you retrieve it. Poor storage causes moth damage, mildew, permanent creases, and yellowing that wasn't there when the item was put away.

Clean everything before storage, even if it looks clean

Body oils, invisible food residues and deodorant traces all attract moths and cause oxidation yellowing during months of storage. A garment that looked perfectly clean when you put it away can emerge with yellow underarm marks or moth damage after a season. Wash or dry clean all items before storage — without exception. This is the most important step and the most commonly skipped.

Containers and moth prevention

Store clothing in breathable containers — cotton storage bags, acid-free tissue paper, cardboard boxes. Avoid plastic bags and sealed plastic containers for natural fibres: these trap moisture and promote mildew. For moth deterrence, cedar blocks or lavender sachets are effective and leave no chemical residue. Moth balls (naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene) work but leave a persistent odour and are toxic. Replace cedar blocks annually — they lose effectiveness as the oils evaporate, but can be refreshed by light sanding.

Folding vs hanging for storage

For long-term storage, folding is generally preferable to hanging for most garments. Hanging creates stress on fabric at the shoulder and waistline over months. Knitwear stored on hangers will stretch. Interleave acid-free tissue paper between folds of delicate fabrics to prevent crease marks. For tailored garments that must be stored hanging, use padded hangers and cover with a breathable garment bag. Store in a cool, dry, dark location — light fades fabric, heat encourages mildew, and humidity promotes moth activity.