Alexei Volkov
If you're looking to store your clothes in plastic totes, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, wash and thoroughly dry your clothes before placing them in storage, as any dirt, stains, or moisture can cause odours and damage to your clothing. Next, choose a breathable container such as a ventilated plastic bin with holes to allow for air circulation and prevent mould growth. For extra protection, line your plastic containers with clean cotton sheets and add cedar chips or lavender sachets to naturally repel pests and add a pleasant scent. Finally, remember to properly fold your clothes and label your plastic totes for easy access when retrieving seasonal items or unpacking after a move.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Wash clothes before storing | To prevent smells and stains from setting in, and to avoid attracting insects and other vermin |
| Dry clothes before storing | To prevent mould, mildew and odours from building up |
| Fold clothes before storing | To save space and prevent wrinkles |
| Use airtight plastic storage bins | To keep out moisture and therefore limit mould and mildew |
| Use silica gel desiccant packets | To ensure no moisture is left inside containers |
| Add a dryer sheet | To keep clothes smelling fresh |
| Use acid-free tissue paper | To wrap delicate items |
| Store in a temperate area away from sunlight | To maintain quality |
| Use breathable containers | To prevent mould and odours |
| Use cedar chips or lavender sachets | To add a pleasant scent and deter pests |
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What You'll Learn
Wash and dry clothes before storing
When storing clothes in plastic totes, it is important to wash and thoroughly dry them beforehand. This is because any dirt, debris, food, or odours on your clothes can seep into the fabric and cause smells that are hard to get rid of. These smells can be caused by mould or mildew, which can occur if there is any lingering moisture in your clothes. Even a little bit of moisture can cause mould, so it is important to wait 1-2 hours after your clothes come out of the dryer before packing them away.
Washing your clothes before storing them will also help to prevent stains. Your clothes might not look dirty, but over time, any dirt, sweat, or soil on the clothing will cause set-in stains, especially in baby clothes. These stains are often the cause of the yellow marks you may find when you take your clothes out of storage.
To prevent mould and mildew, you can also use silica gel desiccant packets to ensure no moisture is left inside your containers. Additionally, cedar chips or blocks can be used to repel pests and provide a pleasant smell.
When packing your clothes, it is important to fold them properly to save space and prevent wrinkles. You can also use vacuum packing bags to save space, but be aware that this can cause wrinkles in woollen items.
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Use airtight plastic storage bins
Airtight plastic storage bins are a great option for storing clothes as they can protect your garments from several common issues. Firstly, plastic storage bins are ideal for keeping out moisture, which can cause mould and mildew to form on your clothes. This is especially important if you live in a hot and humid climate or plan to store your clothes for six months or longer. To further protect your clothes from mould, ensure they are completely dry before placing them into storage. You can also use silica gel desiccant packets to absorb any remaining moisture inside the containers.
Another benefit of airtight plastic storage bins is that they can protect your clothes from pests. Unlike cardboard boxes, plastic bins cannot be infiltrated by vermin and pests such as silverfish. To further protect your clothes from unwanted visitors, you can add cedar chips or blocks to your storage bins. Cedar naturally repels pests and smells better than chemicals, which may also damage your clothing.
When using plastic storage bins, it is important to fold your clothes properly to save space and prevent wrinkles. You can also use acid-free tissue paper to wrap delicate items, such as dresses and suits, before placing them in the bins. For added protection, you can line your plastic containers with clean cotton sheets.
Finally, it is important to wash your clothes before placing them into storage to prevent dirt, stains, and odours from building up over time. This is also a great opportunity to sort through your clothes and decide what you want to keep. Once your clothes are clean and dry, you can begin placing them into your airtight plastic storage bins.
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Add cedar chips or lavender sachets
When storing clothes in plastic totes, it is important to keep them fresh and protected. One way to do this is by using cedar chips or lavender sachets. Cedar is known for its strong aroma, which effectively repels many types of insects and pests. It also smells better than chemicals that might be harmful to your clothing.
You can buy cedar chips online or at local home improvement stores, or even make your own sachets. To make a simple no-sew sachet, cut a fabric square and place a small handful of cedar chips in the center. Gather the edges of the fabric to form a pouch and secure it with a tight double knot, using a cotton cable cord. You can also add a few drops of cedar essential oil to the chips for a stronger scent, or mix in dried lavender for a more aromatic blend.
Lavender has a calming scent and is also effective against moths and other bugs. You can buy pre-made lavender sachets or make your own, in a similar way to the cedar sachets. You can also blend lavender and cedar together for a balanced floral yet woodsy scent.
Remember to replace the cedar chips or lavender sachets every few months for them to remain effective. It is also important to note that you should avoid direct contact between these aromatic substances and clothes, as they may stain certain fabrics.
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Label totes for easy access
When storing clothes in plastic totes, it's important to label them for easy access. This will save you time and hassle when you need to retrieve specific items. Here are some tips to effectively label your totes:
- Use labels with different colours: Assign a specific colour for each category of clothing. For example, you could use blue labels for winter clothing, green for summer clothing, and so on. This way, you can quickly identify the contents of each tote at a glance.
- Write detailed descriptions: Take the time to write down what's inside each tote. Be as specific as possible. For instance, instead of simply writing "winter," you could write "winter jackets and sweaters." This detailed approach will make finding particular items much easier.
- Include a list of items: If you have the time and patience, create an inventory list of every single piece of clothing in each tote. This is especially useful if you have a large number of items or if you plan to store your totes for an extended period. Tape the list to the outside of the tote or keep a master list in a notebook or on your phone for quick reference.
- Use a consistent labelling system: Consistency is key. Decide on a labelling format and stick to it across all your totes. For example, you could use a standard format like "Season: [season], Clothing Type: [type], Items: [list of items]." This standardised approach will make locating and retrieving your clothes much simpler.
- Consider using symbols or abbreviations: If you're short on space or want to save time, consider using symbols or abbreviations on your labels. For instance, you could use "WN" for winter and "SS" for summer. Just make sure you keep a key or legend that explains each symbol or abbreviation so you don't forget what they mean.
- Make it a fun activity: Labeling totes doesn't have to be a chore. Turn it into a fun game, especially if you're doing it with family or friends. Play some music, chat, and enjoy the process of organising your clothes. It can be a satisfying and enjoyable experience.
Remember, taking the time to properly label your plastic totes will pay off in the long run. It will make accessing your stored clothes more efficient and will help you stay organised, whether you're storing clothes for different seasons or simply creating more space in your closet.
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Store seasonal items together
When storing seasonal items, it's important to separate them by season. For example, you could have a plastic tote for winter clothes and another for summer clothes. This way, you can easily access the items you need for the current season without rummaging through multiple totes.
Before storing seasonal items, it's crucial to clean and thoroughly dry them. Any dirt, stains, or odours on your clothes can attract pests and cause unpleasant smells that are hard to remove. Make sure to follow the care instructions for each garment, especially for delicate items made of natural fibres such as silk and wool, which may require hand washing or dry cleaning.
When packing your seasonal items, fold them properly to save space and prevent wrinkles. You can also use acid-free tissue paper to wrap delicate items for added protection. Additionally, consider using silica gel desiccant packets and dryer sheets in your plastic totes to absorb any residual moisture and maintain a fresh scent.
Label each plastic tote clearly with the season and the type of items inside. This will make it easier to locate specific items when you need them. You can also use different coloured labels to differentiate between seasons or item types. By following these steps, you'll be able to efficiently pack and access your seasonal items, making the most of your storage space.
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Frequently asked questions
It is important to wash and fully dry your clothes before storing them. Any dirt, debris, or odours on your clothing can attract pests and cause damage. Make sure to follow the care label on each garment.
You should avoid using cardboard boxes or plastic bags as these can trap moisture, leading to mould and mildew. Instead, opt for a plastic storage bin or tote with a clip-on lid. These will protect your clothes from moisture, dust, and pests.
You should fold your clothes properly to save space and prevent wrinkles. For delicate items, fabric bags are ideal as they offer excellent breathability.
Cedar is a great natural repellent against moths and other insects. You can use cedar chips, blocks, or balls to protect your clothes and leave a pleasant aroma.
Divide your clothes into seasonal items to free up closet space and make them easier to find. You can also use labels of different colours to organise your clothes.
