Properly Protecting Clothing For Long-Term Storage
If you intend to place clothing in a self-storage unit for an extended period of time, you are most likely concerned about ensuring that each piece remains intact during your absence. There are several precautionary steps you can take to decrease the likelihood that your clothes will become moldy or moth-bitten when being stored for months or years. Here are some tips you can use to ensure your clothing remains damage-free when being stored in a storage facility.
Take The Time To Launder And Dry Completely
It is important to wash your clothing and dry it in its entirety before you pack it for a trip to your storage unit. This will remove any possible insects, eggs, or larvae from the material as well as freshen the articles with a pleasing scent. Make sure the clothing is completely dry before it is packed. If moisture remains in an article of clothing, it can lead to a mildew problem. Do not dry your clothing outdoors to minimize the chance of an insect getting into your storage unit, possibly resulting in an infestation. Make sure to pack your clothing while it is still warm so there is no chance of an insect jumping on board one of your articles.
Place Items In The Proper Containers
Instead of placing clothing inside of cardboard boxes where they are at risk of exposure to moisture and pests, it is best to place articles inside plastic storage tubs or clothing bags. These will provide a complete barrier against exterior elements, ensuring the clothing is fully protected. Make sure the lids to plastic storage bins are taped into place so there are no gaps present around the lips of the containers.
Add Some Pest Deterrents For Extra Protection
To aid in keeping wool, acrylic, and other yard-based materials from becoming tattered due to insects, it is a good idea to add a deterrent directly to the container where you have these items stored. Instead of standard mothballs, look for scented moth deterrent crystals or sachets to tuck into your containers before placing clothing inside. These will not have a harsh scent and will keep insects from trying to get into your containers. Dabbing a bit of peppermint or lavender oil along the perimeters of the rims of the containers before sealing them with appropriate lids will also aid in keeping insects from trying to wriggle their way into your stored clothing.