Wednesday, May 6, 2009

Preserve Clothing When In Storage

Proper storage is essential to preserving beautiful clothing,


Sometimes it's necessary to pack away clothing for various reasons; it could be that your closet is too small to hold your entire wardrobe or you're putting clothes away for another season, for when you reach that perfect size, or for a baby yet to be born. Whatever your reason, it's essential that your clothes remain in stellar condition for when you retrieve them from storage. To ensure your clothing isn't sun-damaged, moth-eaten or mildewed, follow a few tips to store them properly. Does this Spark an idea?


Instructions


1. Choose a storage area that has the proper weather conditions to help preserve your clothing. Storage areas should be dry; damp storage areas can encourage mildew on your clothing. Storage areas should also be cool, as a space that is too warm can cause mold growth, as well as attract insects, moths and other bugs seeking shelter. Choose a storage area that is dark and doesn't get much (if any) sunlight because the sun can cause your clothes to fade, as well as invite insects.


2. Keep your clothing in air-tight containers. If you store clothing in see-through plastic, make sure they are stored in dark areas away from sunlight; otherwise store them in dark plastic. You can also store them in cedar chests, suitcases, garment bags or wardrobe boxes with hanger rods. Cardboard boxes are not recommended, unless your clothing is carefully wrapped and separated. Vacuum-sealed plastic storage bags are not recommended over long periods of time because the lack of ventilation can encourage mold and mildew growth.


3. Line boxes and other cases with acid-free tissue paper, and place tissue paper between each item of clothing.


4. Keep clothes loose; don't pack them too tightly together. When placing folded items of clothing on top of one another, stack the heaviest items at the bottom and the lightest items at the top.


5. Place chemical desiccants in with your clothing to prevent mold growth and absorb excess moisture.







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