Choosing to take some time to go on a traveling adventure is incredibly exciting, but there is a lot you need to organize before you go. Not only do you need to think about preparing all the relevant travel documents, possible vaccinations, accommodation, etc., but you also need to think about what you’re going to do with the belongings that you’re leaving behind for the next few months or years. While you may be able to leave some items with trusted friends or relatives, you may need to use a storage unit as well. If you are going to leave any clothing in these units while you’re away, here are some tips to help you make sure that your clothes are protected in storage.
-
Choose a Climate Controlled Unit
Not all storage units are designed this way, so when you are looking at them to lease make sure you do ask about this. You will need a climate-controlled unit to protect the fabrics, as different temperatures can affect the color, or even encourage certain materials to deteriorate quickly. These types of units will also be necessary for any upholstered furniture items you may want to store, electronic devices, and more.
-
Use Hangers, Garment Bags, and Rails
To keep your clothes away from the floor and covered while you’re away, you should think about investing in some garment rails to place in your storage unit. You can order clothes hangers in bulk from sites like mainetti.com if you need extra. Garment bags will also be useful to protect your clothes from dust while they are in storage.
-
Vacuum Bags
Another option you can explore when putting your clothes into storage is using vacuum bags. This can help you save a lot of space and will keep your clothes protected when they are in boxes in your unit. However, certain materials will not be suitable for this, such as leather and natural fibers. Clothing with fluffy lining might also be unsuitable for this. Nonetheless, for items that aren’t made from these materials, it can be an ideal choice.
-
Acid-Free Tissue Paper
For special clothes made from more luxurious materials, you may want to think about packing them with acid-free tissue paper. This can help to maintain the color of the fabrics as it is pH neutral, unlike other tissue papers available. You can use this paper to stack your clothing in a storage box or drawers if you are also putting your furniture like a wardrobe or chest of drawers in the unit.
-
Make Sure All Clothes are Clean and Dry Before Putting Them in Storage
Finally, make sure that you clean all of your clothes before you put them into storage. Not only will this help them stay fresh, but it means removing anything on the fabric that could turn moldy or spoil the fabrics. They must be fully dry before going into storage too, as this can also result in mold and dampness in the unit.
If you are going globetrotting any time soon and would like to put some of your clothes into storage, use these tips to help them stay protected.