If you’re changing your wardrobe for the season, moving house, downsizing or simply running out of space at home, a self storage unit can be a practical place to keep clothes and other textiles.
But putting clothes into storage isn’t as simple as filling a few boxes and closing the door. If clothing is going to be stored for several months, the way you clean, pack, label and arrange it can make a big difference to its condition when you need it again.
So, how should you store clothes in a storage unit?
Here’s everything you need to know.
Can you store clothes in a storage unit?
Yes. Clothes can be stored in a self storage unit, and they can be particularly useful for seasonal clothing that you don’t need all year round.
You might use a storage unit for:
- Summer clothes during the winter
- Winter coats, jumpers and boots during the summer
- Clothing between house moves
- Baby and children’s clothes that you want to keep for later
- Formalwear and occasion outfits
- Sportswear and specialist clothing
- Clothing you’re keeping while decluttering or renovating
- Excess stock if you’re running a clothing business
The key is to make sure your clothes are clean, completely dry and properly packed before they go into storage.
1. Sort your clothes before packing
Before you start packing, decide what actually needs to go into storage.
Separate your clothing into four groups:
Keep: Clothes you want to store and use again.
Donate or sell: Items you no longer wear but someone else could use.
Repair: Clothes worth keeping that need buttons replacing, stitching or other minor repairs.
Dispose of: Clothing that is beyond repair.
There’s little point paying for storage space for clothes you no longer want.
If you’re storing seasonal clothing, this is also a good opportunity to create a simple system. For example, you might keep all your winter clothing together and your summer wardrobe in a separate group.
2. Wash and completely dry everything
One of the most important rules for storing clothes is simple: never put dirty or damp clothing into storage.
Wash or clean your clothes according to their care instructions before packing them away. Make sure everything is completely dry before it goes into a box or storage container.
Why does this matter?
Dirt, sweat, body oils, deodorant and other residues can become much more difficult to deal with after clothing has been stored for months. Any remaining moisture can also create an unpleasant environment for fabrics.
Don’t rely on storage to dry clothes for you. If an item feels a little damp when you go to pack it, wait until it is completely dry.
3. Repair clothes before putting them away
Storage is a good opportunity to deal with those small repairs you’ve been putting off.
Check for:
- Missing buttons
- Loose stitching
- Small holes
- Broken zips
- Damaged hems
- Other obvious repairs
There’s nothing more frustrating than taking a favourite coat or outfit out of storage months later and discovering that it still needs repairing.
4. Choose the right clothing storage containers
For most clothes, sturdy, clean storage boxes are a practical option.
Cardboard boxes can work well, particularly for shorter-term storage, provided they are clean and dry. For longer-term storage, you may prefer suitable plastic storage containers with secure lids.
Avoid packing clothes into containers that are dirty, damaged or likely to allow moisture in.
For delicate or valuable clothing, consider whether specialist garment storage or protective covers are more appropriate.
This is a vital step when considering how to store clothes in a storage unit.
Should you vacuum pack clothes for storage?
Vacuum bags can save space, but they aren’t necessarily the best choice for every type of clothing or for very long-term storage.
Compressing bulky items such as some coats or duvets can be useful, but delicate fabrics may benefit from being stored with more room rather than compressed for extended periods.
If you’re unsure, follow the garment manufacturer’s care instructions and consider the material before vacuum packing it.
5. Don’t overfill your boxes
It’s tempting to squeeze as many clothes as possible into each container, particularly if you’re trying to minimise the amount of storage space you need.
However, overpacking can crease clothing unnecessarily and make boxes difficult to move.
Pack clothes neatly without crushing them. Make sure boxes can still be closed properly and aren’t so heavy that they become difficult or unsafe to lift.
6. Keep clothes off the floor
When arranging your storage unit, don’t simply put boxes of clothing directly on the floor if you can avoid it.
Use shelving or suitable raised storage where appropriate, and leave enough room around your belongings to access them easily.
It’s also important not to pack your storage unit so tightly that you can’t reach the boxes at the back.
A little planning now can save you from having to unpack half the unit just to find one winter coat.
7. Label every box
A good labelling system can make a huge difference.
Instead of writing simply “Clothes” on every box, be more specific.
For example:
- Winter coats
- Summer dresses
- Children’s clothes – age 5–6
- Ski clothing
- Shoes and accessories
- Formalwear
You could also number your boxes and keep a simple inventory on your phone.
That means you’ll know exactly where your belongings are without having to open every box when you need something.
8. Store seasonal accessories with the right clothing
Don’t forget about the items that go with your clothes.
Depending on what you’re storing, this could include:
- Scarves
- Hats
- Gloves
- Belts
- Handbags
- Shoes
- Boots
- Seasonal sportswear
Keeping related items together makes changing your wardrobe much easier.
For example, you could have one clearly labelled section for winter clothing, coats, boots and accessories, rather than spreading them throughout the unit.
9. Hang suitable garments where appropriate
Some garments are better stored hanging rather than folded.
Formalwear, suits, dresses and certain delicate garments may benefit from being kept on suitable hangers and protected with breathable garment covers.
However, not every item needs to be hung. Knitted garments, for example, are generally better folded to help prevent them from losing their shape.
Always consider the material and follow the garment’s care instructions.
10. Keep the storage environment clean and dry
Clothing should be stored somewhere clean and dry.
This is one reason why the type of storage facility you choose matters.
At Hogleaze Storage, our indoor self storage units are suitable for items including clothing, upholstered furniture, photos, electronics and other household belongings. Our facilities are designed to provide a clean, secure environment for stored possessions.
It is still important to pack your clothes properly before bringing them into storage. A good storage unit isn’t a substitute for good preparation.
11. Leave some space between your belongings
Don’t pack your storage unit so tightly that everything is wedged together.
Leaving sensible gaps makes it easier to:
- Access individual boxes
- Move belongings safely
- Check the condition of your stored items
- Keep the unit organised
- Find something without disturbing everything else
If you know you’ll need regular access to your clothing, create a simple walkway or keep frequently needed items towards the front of the unit.
12. Protect valuable or delicate clothing
If you’re storing expensive, vintage or sentimental clothing, give it additional consideration.
For example, wedding dresses, vintage garments, designer clothing and other delicate textiles may require specialist cleaning or preservation before being stored.
Don’t assume that a standard cardboard box is suitable for every garment.
Check the manufacturer’s or specialist cleaner’s storage recommendations for particularly valuable items.
What clothes should you not put into storage?
Before storing any item, check the terms and conditions of your storage provider.
You should also avoid storing clothing that is:
- Wet or damp
- Dirty
- Contaminated with chemicals or other substances
- Infested with insects or pests
- Already showing signs of mould
If you’re unsure whether a particular item is suitable for self storage, ask your storage provider before bringing it in.
How long can clothes be stored in a storage unit?
Clothes can be stored for weeks, months or longer, provided they are properly prepared and the storage conditions are suitable.
For longer-term storage, take extra care with:
- Cleaning and completely drying every item
- Choosing suitable containers
- Protecting delicate fabrics
- Labelling everything
- Checking the clothing periodically if practical
- Following any care instructions for valuable garments
The longer you plan to store clothing, the more worthwhile it is to invest a little extra time in preparation.
A simple clothing storage checklist
Before you take your clothes to a storage unit, make sure you’ve:
- Sorted out anything you no longer need
- Washed or cleaned the clothes
- Completely dried every item
- Repaired damaged clothing
- Chosen suitable storage containers
- Avoided overpacking
- Labelled every box
- Created an inventory if you’re storing lots of clothing
- Kept delicate garments appropriately protected
- Planned where each box will go in your storage unit
Store your seasonal wardrobe with Hogleaze Storage
If you’re running out of room at home, you don’t necessarily have to get rid of clothing you want to keep.
Self storage can give you somewhere practical to keep seasonal wardrobes, clothing between house moves, children’s clothes, sports equipment and other belongings without filling every cupboard in your home.
Hogleaze Storage offers indoor self storage at our Dorchester and Weymouth facilities, with a range of unit sizes to suit different requirements. Our facilities include security measures such as alarmed buildings, CCTV, controlled access and regular site inspections.
We also provide trolleys and other facilities to make moving your belongings into storage easier.
If you’re not sure how much space you need, our team can help you choose a suitable unit rather than paying for more space than necessary.
Looking for clothing storage in Dorset?
Contact Hogleaze Storage to discuss your requirements:
Dorchester: 01305 889777
Weymouth: 01305 830000
Or get in touch with our team to find the right storage solution for your belongings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it OK to store clothes in a storage unit?
Yes. Clothes are suitable for self storage when they are clean, completely dry and packed appropriately. Choose a clean, dry storage environment and use suitable containers to protect them.
What is the best way to store clothes long term?
Clean and completely dry the clothes before packing them. Use suitable storage boxes or containers, avoid overpacking, protect delicate garments appropriately and label everything so it can be easily located.
Should I vacuum pack clothes before putting them in storage?
Vacuum bags can be useful for saving space, particularly with bulky items, but they aren’t suitable for every fabric or garment. For delicate clothing or extended storage, check the garment’s care instructions before vacuum packing.
How do I stop clothes smelling in storage?
Start with clean, completely dry clothes and clean storage containers. Avoid putting damp or dirty garments into storage, and choose a clean, dry storage environment.
Can I store winter clothes in a storage unit during summer?
Absolutely. Seasonal clothing is one of the practical uses of self storage. Pack your winter clothing carefully, label it clearly and keep it together so it’s easy to retrieve when colder weather returns.
Can I store shoes and accessories with my clothes?
Yes, provided they are clean and completely dry and your storage provider permits them. Keeping seasonal shoes and accessories with the relevant clothing can make changing your wardrobe much easier.
What size storage unit do I need for clothes?
That depends on how much clothing and how many other belongings you want to store. Hogleaze offers a range of unit sizes, from smaller spaces suitable for boxes and seasonal clothing to larger units for household storage.
If you’re unsure, speak to the Hogleaze team about what you’re planning to store and they can help you work out how much space you need.
Ready to make more space at home?
Storing your seasonal clothing doesn’t have to mean cramming boxes into a loft, garage or spare bedroom.
With the right preparation and a suitable self storage unit, you can keep your clothes organised, accessible and ready for when you need them again.
Speak to Hogleaze Storage today about self storage in Dorchester or Weymouth.