How to Store Clothes for Long Term Without Ruining Them

Storing clothes for the long term sounds simple until you pull them back out months later and realize they smell off, feel stiff, or no longer fit the way they did. Most clothing damage in storage does not come from time itself. It comes from moisture, trapped air, pests, and rushed packing decisions.

Whether you are storing seasonal wardrobes, sentimental pieces, or clothing you plan to wear again, a little preparation goes a long way. Done right, long term clothing storage keeps fabrics clean, wearable, and ready when you need them.

Decide What Is Worth Storing First

Before packing anything, take a moment to be selective. Long term storage works best for clothing you know you will use again or want to preserve.

Items that usually make sense to store include:

• Seasonal clothing like coats, sweaters, and cold weather gear
• Formalwear or special occasion outfits
• High quality pieces you plan to wear again
• Sentimental items you want to protect

If you are unsure what belongs in storage versus what should stay home or be let go, this guide on what you should keep in storage helps clarify those decisions before you pack.

Clean Everything Before It Goes Into Storage

Never store clothing that has not been cleaned. Even faint stains or body oils can darken and set over time. Odors also become harder to remove the longer fabric sits.

Wash or dry clean everything according to the care label. Make sure items are completely dry before packing. Moisture is one of the fastest ways to invite mildew and fabric damage during long term storage.

Choose the Right Storage Containers

The container you use matters just as much as the clothing inside it.

Plastic bins with tight fitting lids are ideal for long term storage. They protect against dust, pests, and humidity better than cardboard boxes. Clear bins make it easier to identify contents later without opening everything.

Avoid vacuum sealing delicate fabrics for long periods. While it saves space, it can permanently crease natural fibers and trap moisture if clothing was not perfectly dry.

Fold or Hang Based on Fabric Type

Not all clothing should be stored the same way.

Fold items like sweaters, knits, t shirts, and jeans to prevent stretching. Use acid free tissue paper between layers for delicate pieces.

Hang structured garments such as suits, dresses, and coats using sturdy hangers. Cover them with breathable garment bags rather than plastic to allow airflow while keeping dust off.

Add Light Protection Against Pests and Odors

Moths and insects are a real concern in long term storage. Avoid traditional mothballs, which leave strong odors and contain harsh chemicals.

Instead, use cedar blocks or lavender sachets placed inside bins or garment bags. These help deter pests without damaging fabric or leaving lingering smells.

Store Clothing Thoughtfully Inside the Unit

Place clothing containers off the floor using shelving or pallets to reduce exposure to temperature changes and moisture. Keep clothing away from the unit door where dust and airflow fluctuate the most.

Group similar items together and label bins clearly. This keeps the unit organized and reduces unnecessary handling when you need to access something later.

If you want a broader system for arranging your unit efficiently, this guide on how to pack and organize a storage unit efficiently pairs well with clothing storage planning.

Choose a Facility That Supports Long Term Storage

Long term clothing storage benefits from clean units, consistent access, and proper security. A well maintained facility reduces the risks that cause most storage related damage.

You can view available options at Eastvale Storage before getting started. A little planning before move in can save a lot of frustration down the road.

Check on Stored Clothing Occasionally



Even well packed clothing benefits from occasional check ins. Visiting your unit every few months lets you confirm that bins are dry, pest free, and undisturbed. Early detection of issues prevents long term damage.

Clothing storage is about preservation, not just space. With the right preparation and setup, your clothes can come out of storage looking exactly the way they went in, clean, fresh, and ready to wear again.