How To · Fashion · Care
The Right Way to Fold and Store Seasonal Clothes
Proper storage isn't just about reclaiming closet space—it's about protecting your investment from wrinkles, moths, and moisture damage. Here's how to pack away seasonal pieces so they emerge ready to wear.
5 min read · IrisWhether you're rotating out winter coats or packing away linen dresses, the difference between clothes that survive storage and clothes that emerge wrinkled, stretched, or moth-eaten comes down to three things: how you fold, what you store them in, and where you keep them. Most of us skip these steps and pay for it come season change.
The good news: proper storage requires no special equipment or expertise. It's about understanding fabric behavior, moisture control, and pest prevention. Follow these steps and your off-season wardrobe will be as wearable six months from now as it is today.
Fold heavy knits lengthwise, never hang them—gravity will stretch the shoulders beyond recognition.
What you'll need.
- 01Clear plastic storage bins with tight-fitting lids
- 02Cedar blocks or sachets
- 03Silica gel packets or moisture absorbers
- 04Acid-free tissue paper
- 05Breathable garment bags (for hanging storage)
- 06Lavender sachets (alternative to cedar)
Step one · 1 minute
Clean everything before storing
Dust, body oils, and food particles attract moths and mildew. Wash or dry-clean all garments before storage—this is non-negotiable. Even clothes that look clean harbor microscopic debris. Let everything air-dry completely; any residual moisture invites mold. Pay special attention to underarms, hems, and seams where bacteria hide.
Don't store anything damp. Moisture is the enemy of long-term garment health.
Step two · 2 minutes
Fold heavy knits and delicate fabrics correctly
Heavy sweaters, cardigans, and knits should always be folded, never hung—hangers stretch the shoulders out of shape. Fold lengthwise first, then fold in thirds or halves depending on your storage space. For delicate fabrics like silk or linen, fold gently and avoid sharp creases; you can place acid-free tissue paper between folds to minimize wrinkles. Lightweight tees and tanks can be rolled instead of folded to save space.
Use the 'file fold' method for sweaters: fold in half lengthwise, then fold into thirds. This prevents deep creases and saves space.
Step three · 2 minutes
Choose the right container
Avoid cardboard boxes—they absorb moisture and deteriorate, plus they attract insects. Opt for clear plastic bins with tight-fitting lids; you'll see what's inside without opening them, and they seal out pests and humidity. If you use cedar chests or wooden storage, line them with acid-free paper first to prevent direct wood contact, which can stain fabrics. For hanging storage, use garment bags made from breathable fabric, not plastic, which traps moisture.
Label bins by season and garment type (e.g., 'Winter Coats,' 'Summer Dresses'). You'll thank yourself next season.
Step four · 2 minutes
Add moth and moisture protection
Place cedar blocks, cedar sachets, or lavender sachets inside bins to deter moths naturally. If you live in a humid climate, add silica gel packets or moisture absorbers to prevent mildew. Replace cedar every 6–12 months as its scent fades. Avoid mothballs—they're toxic and leave a chemical smell that's hard to remove. Don't overpack bins; garments need airflow to prevent moisture buildup.
Cedar works best in enclosed spaces. If using garment bags, tuck a cedar sachet near the top where air can circulate.
Step five · 2 minutes
Choose a stable storage location
Store bins in a cool, dark, dry place away from direct sunlight, which fades colors and weakens fibers. Avoid basements (moisture) and attics (temperature fluctuations). A bedroom closet, under-bed storage, or climate-controlled garage is ideal. Keep bins off the floor to prevent water damage if flooding occurs. Ensure good air circulation around containers so humidity doesn't accumulate.
If you must use a basement or attic, invest in a small dehumidifier to regulate moisture levels.
Step six · 1 minute
Check on stored clothes midway through the off-season
Open bins once during the off-season to inspect for moisture, odors, or pest activity. If you notice mustiness, remove items and air them out. Replace cedar sachets and silica packets if they've lost potency. This quick check prevents small problems from becoming major damage.
Take a photo of each bin's contents before sealing. It's a handy reference when you're packing for a trip and need to find something quickly.
How to know your storage system works
When you unpack seasonal clothes months later, they should emerge wrinkle-free (or nearly so), without odors, stains, or signs of insect damage. Colors should be as vibrant as when you packed them, and fabrics should feel fresh and structurally intact. If everything checks these boxes, your method is solid.
Questions at the mirror.
My stored sweaters came out stretched and misshapen. What went wrong?
They were likely hung instead of folded. Gravity pulls on knit fibers over time, permanently stretching the shoulders and body. Always fold heavy knits flat. If they're already stretched, you can sometimes shrink them slightly by laying them flat, misting with water, and letting them air-dry, but prevention is easier than repair.
I found small holes in my stored clothes. Is it moths?
Likely yes. Moth larvae eat protein fibers like wool, cashmere, and silk. Next season, clean everything thoroughly before storing, use cedar or lavender sachets, and seal bins tightly. If you suspect active moths, consider dry-cleaning items before storage or freezing them for 48 hours to kill larvae.
Can I use plastic hanging bags to store off-season clothes?
Avoid thin plastic bags—they trap moisture and promote mildew. If you must hang-store, use breathable garment bags designed for long-term storage. Better yet, fold most items into bins and reserve hanging for only a few delicate pieces like dresses or blazers.
How often should I replace cedar blocks?
Cedar's scent fades after 6–12 months, which is when its moth-repelling effectiveness diminishes. You can refresh cedar by lightly sanding the surface with fine-grit sandpaper to release oils, or replace it entirely. Lavender and other natural alternatives last about the same length of time.