5 Great Tips for Sweater Storage

The weather is heating up, and for many people, that means it’s finally time to store sweaters until next winter. Our dry cleaning services are available for any delicate fabrics you’re pulling out for the summer – but now is also a great time to send us your winter coats and sweaters.

1. Clean items before storage

The proper technique for storing fabric always starts with a good dry cleaning. This will remove any debris, including oils from skin, so that your fabric is in the best condition before it goes into storage. While your fabric items are stored for several months, any leftover oils from your skin while you were folding them up, as well as any stains or dirt that weren’t entirely removed before winter ended, will settle into the fabric. Even if you only wore it once, it’s still a good idea to get the piece dry cleaned. The environment can leave behind dust and other debris that are just as harmful.

2. Store your sweaters in a cool, dry place that avoids direct sunlight

Damp patches and wetness could eventually lead to the formation of mildew, and sticky or soiled wool is a heavy attractant for moths and other insects. Ensuring that your sweaters remain dry, but protected from sunlight, throughout their storage period is crucial to keeping them looking their best.

3. Use a good method for storage

There are many methods for storing off-season gear once it has been dry cleaned. Many people like vacuum sealing, because it saves space and ensures that dust does not get near your clothing. However, vacuum sealing can put undue pressure on special features, like embroidered designs, causing them to look less attractive when they are removed later in the year. Clear plastic totes with lids that seal tightly are a great solution; clothing is easy to identify and they tend to stack together for easy storage.

4. Hang a sweater so it doesn't stretch out or get shoulder bumps

If you don’t have room for clear plastic totes to storage your sweaters or prefer to hang the sweater in your closet, fold your sweater in half, place the hanger hook in the armpit, and fold the waist and sleeves over the hanger for a stretch-free hang.

5. Use only natural substance to enhance storage

One thing that many people ask us, if anything, they should add to their stored items, to keep away pests and keep them smelling great. Mothballs have been shown to be less desirable than they once were. Effective odorless products are available, many based on natural substances such as lavender, rosemary, or cloves. As long as your clothes have been dry cleaned before storage, and are stored in an air-tight container, you may not even need to add anything.

By the time winter rolls around, it’s always a joy to pull out your favourite cozy sweater, and find it perfectly dry cleaned and ready to wear when the cooler weather comes around again. And by dry cleaning your sweater, you’ll ensure that it lasts for many more years to come.