As the seasons change, keep your wardrobe organized. Properly storing summer clothes helps keep seasonal items within easy reach and protects off-season clothes. Here are several steps to help you keep your summer wardrobe as the weather cools.
Sorting Through Summer Clothes
Decide what clothes you want to keep and what you want to let go of. Look at your clothes and ask yourself if you wore each item this past summer. If not, it might be time to donate or pass it on. Make sure to inspect each piece for any damages or stains. It's better to fix these issues than to discover them when you want to wear them again. Group your items by type, such as shorts, t-shirts, dresses, or swimwear, to make it easier to pack and find items later.
Proper Folding Techniques
Folding your clothes the right way helps prevent wrinkles and saves space. Generally, fold heavier fabrics and knits to avoid stretching. Hang lightweight fabrics like cotton and linen if you have the space. Try to fold each item as neatly as possible. Rolling clothes also helps minimize wrinkles and is an excellent space-saving technique. If you have delicate items like silk blouses, folding them with acid-free tissue paper helps maintain their shape and prevents snags.
Packing Clothes Away
Once your clothes are sorted and folded, it's time to pack them away properly. Use plastic bins with snug lids to keep moisture and pests out. Clear bins make it easy to see what's inside without opening them. Label each bin with its contents. This simple step will save you time and hassle when you're ready to unpack next summer. Choose a storage location that's cool and dry to prevent mold and mildew. Avoid basements and attics if possible, as they can be prone to extreme temperatures and humidity.
DIY Methods for Keeping Dust and Pests Out
Even with proper containers, additional steps can keep your clothes safe:
- Using cedar blocks or lavender sachets: Cedar blocks repel moths and other insects, and lavender sachets do the same while adding a pleasant scent.
- Vacuum-sealing bags for added protection: Vacuum-sealing bags save space and provide an extra layer of protection against dust and pests. These are especially useful for bulky items like jackets.
- Regularly check stored clothes for signs of pests: Make it a habit to check your clothes every few months for any signs of pests. Early detection can prevent significant damage.
With these steps, you can ensure that your clothing will be in great shape next year when you're ready to pull it out again.
Get Help With Home Care Tasks
Storing away summer clothes doesn't have to be a chore. By following these key steps—sorting, proper folding, packing away, and using DIY methods to keep pests out—you can keep your clothes in excellent condition and have them readily accessible next year.
If you need assistance with regular home tasks, including organizing your wardrobe, Senior Helpers San Mateo is here to help seniors in San Mateo, Redwood City, Burlingame, and Millbrae. Get in touch with us to find out how we can make your seasonal transitions smoother and more manageable.