Having seasonal clothes readily accessible can make daily dressing more convenient and enjoyable for seniors. Beyond saving space, storing summer clothes away keeps your off-season clothes in good condition. With a few simple steps, you can streamline your wardrobe and safely pack away seasonal clothing so they’re ready to use again when the warmer weather returns.
Sorting Through Summer Clothes
Before storing your summer clothes, sort through them to decide what to keep, donate, or discard. Take a good look at each item. If you didn't wear it this summer, consider donating it. Discard worn-out clothes or items that no longer fit and store only those you will still use. Keep versatile pieces you love and can mix and match. If an item has sentimental value or is in good condition, it's worth keeping.
Always wash and dry your clothes before storing them. Storing dirty clothes can attract pests and cause stains to set permanently. Clean clothes are also less likely to develop odors over time.
Proper Folding Techniques
Folding your clothes right keeps them in good shape during storage. Fold T-shirts and blouses neatly, making sure to smooth out any wrinkles. Take note of the natural creases when folding pants and skirts to avoid creating new ones. For bulky items like sweaters, fold them as flat as possible.
Protect delicate fabrics by placing a sheet of tissue paper inside each fold. This technique prevents creases and keeps the fabric from rubbing against itself, which can cause damage. Fold clothes loosely and avoid stacking too many on top of each other to minimize pressure and keep wrinkles at bay.
Packing Clothes Away
Store clothes in plastic bins with tight-fitting lids to keep out moisture and pests. Clear bins are great because you can see what's inside without opening them. Avoid using cardboard boxes as they can attract pests and absorb moisture.
Label each container with its contents to quickly locate what you need without digging through multiple boxes. Store your bins in a cool, dry place. Closets, under the bed, or an unused dresser are great options. Avoid basements and attics as they can be damp and prone to temperature fluctuations.
DIY Methods for Keeping Dust and Pests Out
Cedar blocks and lavender sachets are natural deterrents for moths and other pests. Place a few in each storage bin to keep your clothes smelling fresh and protected. Vacuum-sealed bags are excellent for reducing the space your clothes take up. They also provide an additional layer of protection against pests and moisture. Just be sure to avoid vacuum-sealing delicate fabrics, as the compression can cause damage.
Every few months, check on your stored clothes. Look for any signs of pests, moisture, or mildew. Catching issues early can prevent damage to your clothing and ensure they remain in good condition for the next season.
Senior Helpers Can Assist With Housekeeping and More
Storing your summer clothes away for the winter can seem like a big task, but taking the time to do it right will keep them in great shape and ready to wear next year. If you need help keeping the house and other errands while you focus on getting your wardrobe ready for the seasonal transition, partner with Senior Helpers Beaverton. Our home care solutions in Beaverton, King City, Hillsboro, Tualatin, and Canby aim to help seniors with daily living activities and other aspects of elderly care. Contact us for more information!