Storage clothes is a blog by Rita. Rita calls her newsletter SewInGenius and it is full of valuable information on clothing.
I have included the information from her latest newsletter, but if you live in Perth and would like to see Rita, click on the website link below. You could also register for her newsletter.
SewInGenius Newsletter by Rita
I hope this information about seasonal storage your clothes helps you to keep them looking great for the longest possible time. Here are the fundamental principles for storage clothes.
- Clean - Clean before packing. Particles left on items can stain and set into your clothes after several months of storage. Cleaning the clothes also means that insects will be less likely to take up residence in your clothes. Most clothing just needs to be washed normally or dry cleaned according to the manufacturer's instructions.
- Cool - Choose a place that is not likely to be exposed to heat. Avoid areas near heating sources.
- Dark - A dark place will prevent fading and keep the area and clothing cool.
- Dry - Make sure the storage area is dry because wetness will attract mildew and insects.
Cleaning different types of fabric has been covered in previous issues or "SewInGenius"' so I will concentrate on other concerns associated with packing and storing.
With our mild climate, we use a lot of our clothes all year round. Many are on hangers all year.
- Use hangers designed for the item like shaped shoulders for jackets and padded arms for trousers to fold over and not slip off!
- Utilize all of the extra hanging loops to keep the clothing from becoming misshapen.
- Do not hang knits and jumpers - it will distort them. Fold and lay flat. Fold knit dresses at the waist over a hanger to prevent stretching.
- Make sure the clothing has enough room to have air circulate. This will keep down the risk of mildew and mold. It will also keep the clothing from wrinkling and creasing during general storage.
- Take the plastic bags off dry-cleaned items to air them and prevent mould and mildew from trapped moisture.
What to put those big items in?
- Try plastic tubs (with airtight lids). They are available in many shapes and sizes to suit your space.
- Vacuum pack bags are great for big items like doonas, blankets and mattress covers.
- You can make your own using extra strong plastic bags, squeeze most of the air out then gather the top together, insert your vacuum cleaner hose to extract the air and seal with a minimum of 6 strong elastic bands.
- Cardboard boxes allow air circulation (a big plus) but are vulnerable to moisture and bugs. If using cardboard boxes, check them regularly.
Guarding against bugs:
Please use cedar and lavender balls except for WEDDING DRESSES AND LINENS (I will devote next issue to special item storage).
Cedar balls are effective in a sealed container.
Mothballs contain naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene - neither of these chemicals is particularly good for people to breathe on a regular basis. They also toxic to pets and children if swallowed.
Where is the best space?
Cool dark and dry...yes...but if we don't have a convenient spare storage cupboard or empty wardrobe here are a few creative ideas.
- On the high shelf or on your wardrobe floor - as long as the containers don't interfere with access to the clothes you do need every day.
- On the Floor under beds in shallow plastic containers (works for large, flat vacuum packs).
- Behind armchairs and couches (in the angle gap if it backs onto a cool wall).
- In the linen press or pantry (unless it is close to the oven) stacked on the floor.
Happy altering
Judith aka genie