Expert Tips for Storing Clothes While at University

Ed Stanley — Tue, 20 Aug 2024 16:27:14 +0000

As the new university term approaches, students are gearing up for a fresh start. With limited space in student accommodation, efficient clothes storage is key. Online self-storage specialist SpareFoot has outlined essential tips for keeping out-of-season garments in prime condition.

Declutter Before Storing

Before diving into storage solutions, experts recommend starting with a wardrobe clear-out. Donating or selling items that are unlikely to be worn again not only frees up valuable space but also makes it easier to organise what’s left. A helpful rule is to part with clothes you haven’t worn since the last time they were stored. This approach ensures that only the most useful and beloved pieces are kept.

Clean Clothes Thoroughly

It might seem unnecessary to wash clothes that won’t be worn for months, but thorough cleaning is crucial. Residual scents from food or sweat can attract pests like moths, which can damage fabrics over time. Even faint odours can spread to other garments, compromising their freshness. Use a basic laundry detergent, avoiding heavily scented products, to ensure your clothes remain odour-free. Once washed, ensure that clothes are completely dry before packing, as moisture can lead to musty smells and mildew.

Opt for Vacuum-Sealed Bags or Airtight Containers

Vacuum-sealed bags and airtight plastic boxes are recommended for storing clothes. These options help maintain the condition of your garments and allow for more efficient use of space. To prevent any potential damp or plastic smells, place dryer sheets between layers of fabric. This simple trick keeps your clothes smelling fresh and ready to wear when the seasons change. For feather or down-filled items, such as coats, plastic boxes with secure lids are preferable. If space allows, hanging clothes in garment bags can be a better option, especially for items prone to wrinkling. This method helps avoid tight packing and reduces the need for ironing later.

Choose the Right Storage Location

While it may be tempting to store clothes in the attic or garage, these areas are not ideal due to their fluctuating temperatures and humidity levels, which can damage clothing fibres and attract pests. Instead, consider storing clothes in more controlled environments such as on top of wardrobes, under the bed, or in a spare room. If attic or garage storage is unavoidable, ensure that bags are vacuum-sealed, and containers are airtight to protect your clothes from the elements.

Expert Advice from SpareFoot

A spokesperson from SpareFoot emphasised the importance of proper storage practices: “It might be tempting to quickly stuff your clothes into any convenient bag, but improper storage can lead to unpleasant surprises. Clothes may develop a permanent damp smell, lose their colour, or suffer damage from pests. Following these straightforward tips not only preserves your wardrobe but can save you from the expense of replacing damaged items.”

By implementing these strategies, students can ensure their clothes remain in excellent condition, ready for use when the seasons shift. Proper storage is an investment in maintaining the quality of your wardrobe and avoiding unnecessary costs in the future.

For more tips and advice on self-storage and managing your belongings while at university, visit SpareFoot’s website.

The post Expert Tips for Storing Clothes While at University appeared first on EMC UK.

As the summer heat sets in, it’s time to swap out your winter wardrobe and free up some much-needed space. To help you store your winter clothes effectively, online self-storage finder SpareFoot has shared their top tips on packing away your cold-weather gear, ensuring it stays fresh for when winter returns.

Step 1: Clear Out Unwanted Items

Before you start packing, take a moment to declutter your wardrobe. Donate any items you’re unlikely to wear again. A good rule of thumb is to part with anything you haven’t worn since it was last taken out of storage. This not only frees up space but also makes the storage process more manageable.

Step 2: Wash and Dry Thoroughly

While it may seem unnecessary to launder clothes you won’t wear for months, it’s essential to ensure everything is clean before packing it away. Moths and other pests are attracted to scents, so even faint traces of food or sweat can damage your clothing over time. Use a basic laundry detergent rather than scented fabric softeners to avoid lingering odours. Make sure all items are completely dry to prevent any damp smells from developing during storage.

Step 3: Opt for Vacuum-Sealed Bags or Airtight Boxes

For best results, use vacuum-sealed bags and airtight plastic boxes to store your clothes. These options help keep garments in good condition and make it easier to find space to tuck them away. Placing dryer sheets between layers of fabric can help deodorise any potential smells of damp or plastic. Feather or down-filled items, such as coats or ski wear, should be stored in plastic boxes with secured lids. If you have space to hang your clothes, consider using garment bags to avoid packing them too tightly and to minimise wrinkling.

Step 4: Choose a Suitable Storage Location

Avoid storing your clothes in attics or garages, as humidity and fluctuating temperatures in these areas can damage fabric fibres and attract pests. Instead, store your clothes in cool, dry, and dark places such as the top of your wardrobe, under the bed, or in a spare room. If you must use the attic or garage, ensure that all bags are vacuum-sealed, and containers are airtight to protect your garments.

Expert Advice

A spokesperson from SpareFoot emphasises the importance of proper storage: “While it might be tempting to quickly stuff your sweaters and thick pants into any convenient bag, you will soon regret this improper storage when it’s time to get them back out. Improper storage can lead to permanent damp smells, faded colours, or damage from pests such as moths. By following these simple steps, you can save yourself money in the long run, as otherwise, you might face a hefty bill to replace all your ruined items.”

Conclusion

By taking the time to store your winter clothes correctly, you can ensure they remain in good condition and ready to wear when the cold weather returns. Declutter, clean, pack properly, and choose the right storage location to keep your winter wardrobe fresh and free from damage.

For more information, visit https://www.sparefoot.com.

clothes Archives - EMC UK