5 Wardrobe Storage TIPS

5 Tips for Fabric Storage

Protect Your Winter Wear from Mold, Mildew, Moths and Musty Odors

As the weather warms up, it’s time to store away heavy blankets and winter clothes. Proper storage keeps fabrics fresh and soft, preventing musty odors and damage. Follow these tips to protect your winter wear:

1. Wash Everything First

Make sure all items are clean before storing. Oils, sweat, and dirt can attract pests and cause odors. Use gentle detergent, add baking soda to the wash, and vinegar to the rinse for freshness. Washing everything at once at Ellie's Laundry saves time and effort.

2. Make Sure Everything is Completely Dry

Moisture breeds mold and mildew. Tumble dry on low heat or air-dry items completely before storage. Let them cool down to prevent condensation. When in doubt, leave items out for a day before packing.

3. Store in a Cool, Dry Place if Available

Choose a storage spot with stable temperature and humidity, like a cool, dark closet or under the bed. Avoid humid basements and hot attics to prevent moisture buildup.

4. Choose the Right Storage Containers

The most important factor in choosing a storage container is managing the moisture and surrounding air quality. Consider the space that you have and work with it. Here are several possible storage options:

Vacuum-Sealed Bags: Space-saving and airtight, great for attics or basements.

Hanging or Drawer Storage: Ideal for extra closets or dressers

Stackable Plastic Bins: Allow breathing room to prevent deep wrinkles

Cotton Storage Bags: Promotes airflow, reducing moisture risks

Empty Suitcases: Maximize space with an easy, creative option

5. Guard Against Moths, Moisture & Odors

Lavender or Cedar: Repel moths and add fragrance

Baking Soda or Charcoal Bags: Absorb moisture and odors

Dryer Sheets: Keep stored items smelling fresh

Silica Gel Packets: Trap moisture and prevent mold

Fluff and Refresh Before Use

When fall arrives, shake out blankets and clothes and tumble them in the dryer with a damp towel for 10 minutes. Hanging items outside for a few hours also restores freshness.

By following these tips, your winter clothes and blankets will stay clean, soft, and ready for the next cold season. For professional cleaning before storage, check out Ellie's Laundry Wash, Dry, and Fold services!

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When it comes to washing clothes, the question of how often to clean them isn’t always straightforward. Over-washing can wear out your clothes more quickly and waste time and resources, while under-washing can lead to odors or stains that are harder to remove. Here’s a simple guide to help you decide how many times you can wear different types of clothing before tossing them in the laundry. 1. Everyday Basics Underwear, Socks, and Workout Clothes: Wash after every use. These items come into direct contact with sweat and bacteria, making them hygiene priorities. T-Shirts and Tank Tops: Generally, wash after one wear, especially if worn directly against your skin or in hot weather. 2. Outerwear and Layers Jeans: Can be worn 3-5 times before washing, unless they become visibly dirty or smelly. Spot clean minor stains to extend wear. Sweaters and Hoodies: Wash every 5-7 wears if worn over another shirt, as they don’t directly touch your skin. Jackets and Coats: These can often go weeks or even a full season without washing unless they’re exposed to dirt or odors. 3. Specialty Items Pajamas: Can be worn 3-4 times before washing if you shower before bed. Otherwise, wash after 1-2 wears. Dresses and Skirts: Depending on the material and level of activity, wash after 1-3 wears. 4. Bedding and Towels Bath Towels: Wash after 3-5 uses to prevent mildew buildup. Ensure they dry fully between uses. Sheets: Aim to wash weekly for hygiene and comfort. What About Stains? You might think that every accident, spill or grass stain requires a full wash cycle. However, stains are best treated immediately, before they've had time to dry and set into the fabric. So, spot treating a stain as close to it's occurrence is the best course of action. Depending on the severity of a stain and the overall cleanliness of the clothing article, you may be able to simply spot treat and hand-rinse the stain to restore it to wearable quality without the need to run your washing machine. Why It Matters Washing less often helps your clothes last longer and saves water, energy, and money. It also minimizes the environmental impact of your laundry routine. Use your judgment—if something looks or smells dirty, wash it, but don’t feel obligated to clean items after every wear if they’re still fresh. By finding a balance, you’ll save time, money, and resources while keeping your wardrobe in great shape. Happy Washing!

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