With the cool autumn breeze, it’s time for your closet to welcome a new season. The excitement of putting away summer clothes and pulling out the warm coats and knits you loved last year is one of the joys of fall. However, you’ve likely had the frustrating experience of discovering an unpleasant odor or unexpected damage on your stored clothes.
According to a 2024 report by the International Fabricare & Textile Consortium (IFTC), approximately 70% of permanent damage found on clothing stored for six months or more stems from inadequate “pre-storage treatment.” Specifically, invisible sweat, body oils, and food particles oxidize in the air over time, weakening fibers and causing permanent discoloration like yellowing.
To ensure your precious fall wardrobe is waiting for you in its best condition, check out this essential 5-point checklist from the experts.
- Wash ‘Before Storing,’ Not ‘Before Wearing’: This is the most critical rule. Even if you only wore it for a short time, always wash a garment before storing it. As mentioned, invisible grime is the cause of discoloration and pests.
- Choose Breathable Storage: The plastic bags from the dry cleaner block air circulation, which can trap moisture and cause yellowing. Using breathable, non-woven fabric covers or cardboard boxes is ideal.
- Use Natural Pest & Moisture Repellents: Placing lavender potpourri or cedar blocks in your drawers not only adds a pleasant scent but is also an effective way to deter pests like moths.
- Always ‘Fold’ Your Knits: Hanging knits can cause the shoulder areas to stretch and lose their shape due to the garment’s weight. The secret to maintaining their form is to fold them gently and store them in a drawer or on a shelf.
- A Cool, Dark Place: Direct sunlight and high humidity are the main culprits of fabric damage. Ventilate your closet periodically and store clothes in a cool, dark place.
Before you open your fall wardrobe, entrust it to the experts at Southwood Dry Cleaners. Our eco-friendly, organic cleaning removes even the unseen grime deep within the fibers, perfectly preparing your clothes for the season ahead.
