Storage units can be used to store clothing you don’t frequently use like wedding dresses, baby articles and out-of-season items. However, you should keep in mind that there’s a right way to store textiles, and it’s important to handle them with care if you want to avoid damaging them. Here’s what you should do if you want to keep your clothes in a storage unit.
Launder everything first To begin with, you should wash and completely dry the clothes you want to store. If unlaundered items are put into storage, residual perfume, oil and sweat can settle into the fabric and stain it. Plus, unwashed clothes can produce mould or mildew and may eventually develop unpleasant odours. Donate or discard unwanted pieces Make the most of the space in your storage unit by decluttering before you start packing things away. Any articles of clothing that are in poor condition should be discarded, while pieces that are in good shape but that you’re unlikely to wear again can be donated. It can be difficult to part with things, but this step will make packing and moving boxes easier. Take a detailed inventory At some point, you’ll likely find yourself in need of certain items of clothing you packed away. When that time comes, you’ll probably want to be able to confirm that the clothes you require are indeed located in your storage unit. It’ll also come in handy if you can avoid having to root through your entire unit to find what you need. Creating an inventory of the clothes you’re putting in storage and where precisely they’re located can save you time in the long run. Choose the right storage supplies The best way to store items that can be folded like jeans, T-shirts and sweaters is inside plastic bins. Using them will keep pests, dust and humidity at bay. Clothes that are prone to wrinkling should be hung in wardrobe boxes. Keep in mind that you shouldn’t overpack your boxes because you want to let your clothes breathe. In addition, certain items should be kept in garment bags. Inspect your items regularly Once your clothes are in storage, it’s important to inspect them regularly. By taking this precautionary measure, you can ensure that any issues will be caught early and dealt with in a timely fashion to avoid damage. During these visits, you should also refold and restack your clothes to prevent permanent creasing. Secure a storage unit in the GTA If you have clothing or other possessions you’d like to store, look no further than U-Need Storage. We offer a range of on-site self-storage units as well as packing supplies and other products. Don’t hesitate to contact us today to find out more.