Dry cleaning is an excellent way to maintain the pristine condition of your clothes. To ensure they remain clean and fresh until their next use, it’s crucial to follow expert tips for proper storage. Here’s a friendly and advisory guide to help you keep your dry-cleaned clothes in excellent shape.
- Prioritize Cleaning Before Storage:
Always store clean clothing to avoid setting in stains and odors during storage. Additionally, dirty clothes can attract insects, leading to potential damage. At the end of each season, consider using a reliable dry cleaning delivery service to freshen up your garments before storing them.
- Select a Temperature-Controlled Storage Space:
Choose a storage area that is temperature-controlled to safeguard your clothing from potential damage over time. If you plan to use the attic for storage, ensure it is insulated and climate-controlled. Opt for a dark location to shield your clothes from harmful UV rays. Alternatively, consider using under-bed space or a dedicated closet, reserving a guest bedroom closet for seasonal clothing.
- Differentiate Between Hanging and Folding:
Before storing, assess your clothing and decide which items should be hung and which should be folded. Garments that stretch easily, such as sweaters and knits, should be folded, while clothes prone to wrinkles, like dresses, suits, dress shirts, and blouses, should be hung.
- Storing Folded Clothing:
When folding your clothing, choose plastic containers instead of cardboard boxes to avoid attracting pests and moisture damage. Place acid-free tissue paper between each folded item and avoid overstuffing the containers, allowing your clothes to breathe. Arrange heavier garments at the bottom and lighter ones on top to maintain proper ventilation during storage.
- Storing Clothing on Hangers:
For hanging clothing, use sturdy wooden or padded hangers. To protect them, secure garments in cotton garment bags instead of plastic, as this allows air circulation while shielding your clothes.
- Consider Storage Units:
Explore the available storage units in the market, ranging from compact lockers to larger rooms, providing a secure and easily accessible solution for your belongings. Services like Juujbox offer convenient storage bins with complimentary pickup and delivery, making it hassle-free for you.
- Label Your Clothing:
If you’re storing numerous items, label the containers and garment bags for easy identification. Using a marker or label maker will save you time when searching for specific items later.
- Protect Your Clothing with Cedar Blocks:
Safeguard your clothes from pests and maintain their freshness by using cedar blocks in the storage area. Avoid using mothballs due to their toxicity and unpleasant smell. Remember to sand and re-oil the cedar blocks every few years for continued effectiveness.
- Special Care for Wedding Gowns:
Preserve your wedding gown in a specially designed preservation box or garment bag that is acid-free, keeping moisture and light out to prevent yellowing or fading. Alternatively, use acid-free tissue paper to wrap the gown before placing it in a breathable box, avoiding storage with other items to prevent damage.
- Rotate and Refresh:
To prevent excessive wear on your clothes, rotate your garments regularly when taking them out of storage. By alternating between different pieces, you distribute the usage and help maintain their original condition. Additionally, refresh your stored clothing by taking them out occasionally and airing them for a short while. This will allow any trapped odors to dissipate and help maintain a fresh feel when you decide to wear them again.
Your dry-cleaned clothing stays in excellent condition for years to come when you follow the aforementioned tips. Proper storage not only extends the lifespan of your garments but also saves you money in the long run. Take the time to store your clothing correctly, and you’ll be able to enjoy your favorite pieces season after season. The quality of dry cleaning services also matters. Therefore, always opt for reputed dry cleaning services San Diego like Bluetiee. Feel free to contact us for convenient, hassle-free and affordable dry cleaning services.
