Machine wash all of your non-delicate winter items. Dry clean any winter items made from natural materials, like silk, wool, and cashmere. Do not store these items in a plastic garment bag. [1] X Research source
If your winter shoes are badly stained, consider having them professionally cleaned. To prolong the life of your winter shoes, clean them frequently throughout the winter too. [2] X Research source
If you don’t have an interest in fixing the item, find a way to recycle it.
Ask friends if they are interested in taking any of the pieces. Donate the items to a person in need. Bring the items to a donation center and ask for a tax deduction form. Sell the items to a consignment shop. Host a garage sale. [4] X Research source
While vacuum bags help you save space, they do not allow your garments to breath. [5] X Research source Plastic bins are great for short term storage. If you need to store clothing for more than a season or two, place the garments in a cotton storage bag or box. Instead of mothballs, consider using lavender sachets or cedar balls to keep your clothes smelling fresh and pest free. [6] X Research source
Plastic garment bags do not allow your natural fiber clothing to breathe properly. [7] X Research source
Do not over stuff your storage bins. Instead, loosely pack your sweaters so that they can breathe. [8] X Research source
Remove all of the items from your coat pockets. Wash or dry clean your coats. Fold up your coats and place them into a plastic or cotton storage bin. Do not over stuff the bin. [9] X Research source
If your dresses are not made out of delicate, natural materials, you can fold these items and place them inside a plastic storage bin. You may want to have your real furs professionally stored in a temperature controlled building throughout the spring and summer. [10] X Research source
Bright environments will cause your clothing to fade. Damp and hot environments may cause your clothing to become mildewy. Dusty storage spaces will cause your clean clothing to become dirty. [11] X Research source
If you don’t have space in a closet, you may store your boots in a plastic bin. Lay a pair of boots on their side in the bin. Place a cotton t-shirt of muslin shoe bag over the boots. Continue to fill the bin with alternating layers of boots and cotton t-shirts/muslin shoe bags. Store the closed bin in a cool, dark, dry, and clean space. [12] X Research source
Use new tissue paper. Don’t forget to wipe down, polish, and condition your short winter shoes. [13] X Research source
If you have room in your dresser, you can also store winter accessories in a drawer.
