Maya Ellison
Plastic storage containers are a convenient and affordable way to store and protect your clothes from environmental factors that can damage fabrics over time. They are easily accessible and can be found at multiple stores. Before using them, it is important to clean the containers and ensure they are dry to prevent moisture from building up and causing mould or mildew. It is also recommended to wash and dry your clothes before placing them in the containers to keep them fresher for longer and prevent stains and odours from settling in. For special items, you may want to use acid-free boxes lined with tissue paper, placed inside the plastic containers, and cedar balls to protect against moths, mildew and musty odours.
How to store clothes in plastic containers
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Container type | Airtight plastic containers with clip-on lids |
| Container preparation | Clean and dry the container thoroughly |
| Clothing preparation | Wash and iron clothing, shake to remove dust/hair, ensure clothing is fully dry |
| Clothing placement | Heavier items at the bottom, lighter/delicate items at the top; roll instead of fold to save space |
| Additional items | Cedar balls/dividers for fragrance and moth protection; desiccant packs to absorb moisture; moth deterrent balls/closet potpourri; dryer sheets |
| Container placement | Keep out of sunlight to prevent fabric fading |
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What You'll Learn
Wash and iron clothes before storing
When preparing clothes for storage, it is important to wash and dry them thoroughly before placing them in plastic containers. This is because stains and odours from perfume, deodorant, sweat, and food can settle into the fabric over time if clothes are stored without washing. Washing your clothes before storing them will also help prevent pests such as clothes moths.
After washing, it is recommended to iron your clothes before placing them in storage. Ironing kills certain types of bacteria and helps to eliminate wrinkles. It is also useful in preventing pests from taking up residence in your stored clothes. Steam ironing is a good option if you own a steamer.
However, some sources suggest that ironing clothes before storing them can be damaging to the clothes. If you are planning on storing your clothes away for a season, it is recommended to step away from the iron. Instead, it is advised to allow room for fabrics to breathe. For more delicate items, fold them between sheets of acid-free tissue paper to protect them.
To store your clothes, place them in airtight plastic containers with clip-on lids. These containers will protect your clothing from moisture, dust, mould, and mildew. Make sure to clean and dry the containers thoroughly before placing any clothes inside. You can also place desiccant packs between and around the clothes to absorb moisture.
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Place heavier items at the bottom
When placing heavier items in a plastic storage container, it is important to place them at the bottom to maintain balance and stability. This is especially crucial if you plan to stack multiple containers on top of each other or place them on shelves.
Start by placing the heaviest items first, such as books, heavy tools, or appliances. Distribute these items evenly across the bottom of the container to create a stable base. This will prevent the container from toppling over and make it easier to stack or transport.
If you have multiple heavy items of varying weights, place the heaviest items closest to the centre. This will lower the container's centre of gravity, making it more stable and less likely to tip. For example, if you're storing multiple power tools, place the heavier ones in the centre, surrounded by the lighter ones.
For soft or fragile items, such as clothing or linens, place them in bags or smaller compartments within the container to protect them from damage. This will also make it easier to remove and access these items without disturbing the heavier items at the bottom.
When placing heavier items at the bottom of the container, always consider the overall weight distribution. Ensure that the weight is evenly distributed across the base to avoid putting too much pressure on one side, which could cause the container to crack or break, especially if it is made of plastic.
By following these guidelines, you can effectively utilise your plastic storage containers, maximise space, and protect your belongings.
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Use cedar balls for fragrance
Cedar balls are an effective way to fragrance your clothes and protect them from pests. Cedarwood has a pleasant, natural aroma that most people find appealing. The fragrance of cedarwood also has a functional role—as the wood slowly evaporates, it continues to protect your clothing from pests while keeping your wardrobe smelling pleasant.
Cedar balls are versatile and can be placed in closets, drawers, storage bins, or anywhere you keep clothing. For large storage containers, distribute the cedar balls throughout the container to ensure that all garments receive adequate protection. Using breathable cotton bags to hold the cedar balls will prevent any direct contact with fabrics while allowing the oils to work effectively.
Cedarwood's pest-repelling properties come from its natural oils, which contain compounds that disrupt the lifecycle of moths and other insects. These oils, such as thujone, are toxic to fabric pests but safe for humans and pets. The natural oils in cedar wood release a clean, earthy aroma that permeates your clothes without the need for artificial fragrances.
To maintain the freshness of cedar balls over time, you can lightly sand the surface to expose fresh wood and release more of the aromatic oils. This process renews the aroma and extends the lifespan of the cedar balls' effectiveness, ensuring that your clothes remain protected and odour-free.
Cedar balls are a natural and eco-friendly alternative to traditional mothballs, providing an extra layer of protection for your clothing without introducing chemicals that could harm the fibres. They are a versatile and pleasant-smelling addition to any closet or storage space.
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Avoid over-stuffing containers
When storing clothes in plastic containers, it's important to avoid over-stuffing the containers. Packing containers too full can make them bulky and difficult to manage. It can also cause your clothes to become permanently creased, which can weaken the fabric over time.
To avoid over-stuffing, it's a good idea to declutter your wardrobe and select only the items you need to store. Focus on clothes that are in good condition and that you'll actually wear again or want for sentimental reasons. For seasonal clothing, try to limit yourself to a few high-quality items in each size and let go of any extras.
Another tip to avoid over-stuffing is to roll your garments rather than fold them. This can reduce wrinkles and hard crease lines. You can also separate each item with a piece of acid-free tissue paper to protect your fabrics from discolouration.
Finally, remember to allow your clothes to breathe. Don't tightly stack or seal plastic containers in confined spaces. Instead, store them in an open-air environment with generous airflow to prevent the buildup of chemical off-gassing, high humidity, and mould growth.
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Keep containers out of sunlight
When storing clothes in plastic containers, it is important to keep them out of direct sunlight. Sunlight can cause discolouration and damage to the fabrics. If you are storing your plastic containers outside or in a garage, consider building a simple shelter to keep them out of the sun. Alternatively, you could invest in some radiant barrier insulation, which is a reflective material designed to reflect heat rather than absorb it. This will protect the containers from UV damage.
Another option is to bury the containers underground, which will naturally protect them from sunlight. However, this may be impractical for some spaces and expensive to install and maintain. If you are using a storage unit, choose one that offers protection from the sun, such as a dark, cool area.
To further protect your clothes from sunlight, you can place them in acid-free boxes lined with tissue paper before putting them into the plastic containers. Make sure your clothes are clean and fully dry before storage, as this will help to keep them fresher for longer and prevent any stains or odours from setting in. You can also use desiccant packs to absorb any moisture and cedar balls to protect your clothes from moths, mildew and musty odours.
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Frequently asked questions
Before placing clothes in plastic containers, ensure they are washed, dried, and ironed. Shaking them to get any dust or hair off is also recommended.
Choose plastic containers with clip-on lids to protect your clothes from moisture, dust, mould, and mildew. Avoid using plastic bags or cardboard boxes for storage as they can trap moisture and cause mildew or yellowing.
Place heavier items at the bottom of the container and lighter, more delicate items at the top. You may also want to use cedar balls, which naturally protect clothes from moths, mildew, and musty odours.
