Embrace the Seasonal Shift: A Guide to Organizing Your Wardrobe
As the seasons change, so too does our wardrobe – we eagerly pull out breezy linen shirts for spring and cozy up in chunky woolen knits for the chill of early fall. However, with this exciting sartorial shift comes the often tedious task of organizing and storing seasonal clothes. This process might feel like a chore, but it can also be a rewarding gift to your future self, as cleaning expert Jolie Kerr reminds us. With insights from experts like Kerr and others, let’s delve into how to effectively pare down your closet and safely store your clothing for the months ahead.
Chuck It
One of the first steps in this organizational journey is a good, honest assessment of your wardrobe. Many of us hold onto clothing out of guilt or past investment—pieces we hope to wear again but never do. Erin Boyle, author of Simple Matters: Living With Less and Ending Up With More, advocates for a minimalist approach, suggesting that you should only keep what truly fits your life. Assess your space: if everything doesn’t fit into half a closet and three dresser drawers like Boyle, it might be time to let some items go.
Be ruthless as you sift through your clothes. Ann Lightfoot, a professional organizer, recommends pulling everything out of your closet to really see what you have. With the help of a “lighthearted cheerleader” (think of a supportive friend), you can get a clearer picture of what works for you. If you try something on and hesitate to wear it out, consider discarding it.
When the decision is made to let go of items, consider donating to reputable organizations like Goodwill or The Salvation Army, using resale sites like Poshmark and Depop, or placing posts in local Buy Nothing groups for free pickup options. If you’re in a vibrant city, take advantage of “stooping” culture, leaving items curbside marked as free.
Clean It
Once you’ve curated your wardrobe, it’s crucial to ensure that the clothes you’re putting away are clean. Kerr emphasizes the distress of unpacking seasonal items only to find them smelly or stained. This sentiment resonates further when you realize that dirty clothing can attract pests like moths.
For machine-washable items, using quality detergents like Tide Ultra Oxi Powder is a smart move. Delicates and hand-wash-only garments, however, require specific care. The no-rinse Soak detergent is an excellent choice for these items. Even if you believe an item was worn too recently to require washing, it’s better to err on the side of caution.
Everyone wants to avoid moth mishaps, so cleaning garments made from organic fibers like wool and silk before storing them is vital. Dirty clothes can lead to stale odors and potential damage over time. Also, remember to clean the storage area before placing items back; running a vacuum and wiping down surfaces with an all-purpose cleaner is essential—a gentle reminder here: avoid bleach!
Put It Away
Storage conditions can greatly influence the longevity of your clothing. Watch out for areas that are overly humid or receive direct sunlight, which can lead to fabric deterioration or fading. If your options for storage are limited to damp spaces, consider products like DampRid, which might be beneficial for combatting moisture.
For larger storage areas, airtight boxes with well-fitted lids help significantly reduce air exchange, cutting down on moisture issues. However, dehumidifiers might yield better results in these environments. An effective option, like the Midea 50-pint dehumidifier, ensures optimal conditions for your stored clothes.
When it comes to clothes that tend to stretch like sweaters or knits, folding them instead of hanging is crucial. For long-term storage, consider sealable storage options like plastic totes or cedar chests to keep insect pests at bay. While cedar blocks can help mitigate odors in storage containers, they won’t completely eliminate the risk of moth impacts.
Storage Solutions and Tips
Choosing the right storage container is essential. Products like the Iris WeatherPro Storage Boxes offer practical solutions. Before purchasing any containers, measure your storage areas to ensure a good fit.
When considering hangers, opt for wooden ones for delicate items (like tailored suits and dresses) to maintain their shape and integrity. Alternatively, button-front shirts can be stored on either thin hangers or folded in a plastic tote based on your preference—both methods work.
Avoid storing clothes in plastic dry-cleaning bags, as this can prevent the fabric from breathing and lead to yellowing. Instead, use breathable cotton garment bags, and if you’re inclined to document your wardrobe, consider tagging bags with photos of the outfits inside.
Prioritizing each garment’s needs allows for a smoother transition from seasonal wear to storage. Taking the time to thoughtfully curate and organize your clothes prepares you for the next seasonal shift while protecting your valuable garments. Embracing these steps will enhance your wardrobe experience and save you frustration when the next season rolls around.
