How to store clothes to make them last

Before you start, sort through your clothes. Not all clothes are created equal, so they shouldn't be stored the same way. Divide them into categories: hang, fold, and special care.

Breathing room

Giving your clothes some breathing room is crucial. Overcrowding your wardrobe can lead to wrinkles, damage, and even mould growth as air circulation is restricted. Plus, an organised space means you can find what you need without the mad morning scramble.

Cool, dark and dry

Along with breathing room, your clothes are best kept somewhere cool, dry, and dark. Heat can cause fabrics to fade and lose their shape, while moisture is a breeding ground for mould and mildew—yuck! And too much light, especially direct sunlight, can bleach out colours.

Choose your hangers wisely

Ditch those flimsy wire hangers. They're not doing your clothes any favours in the long term. Wooden or padded/covered hangers keep your clothes in shape and out of the sag zone.
Where you can, use wooden or padded hangers for heavier items like coats and suits. For lighter shirts and blouses, plastic hangers are fine but opt for ones with a smooth finish to prevent snags.

Fold or roll

Knitted items and heavy sweaters should be folded to prevent stretching. T-shirts, jeans, and casual pants can also be folded. Here’s a little trick: fold your clothes in thirds rather than in half to prevent a crease down the centre.

For delicate items or clothes prone to wrinkling, rolling can be a better option than hanging. Use acid-free tissue paper to help maintain the shape and prevent creases.

Divide and conquer

Drawer dividers can be a game-changer. They help keep folded items tidy and prevent them from becoming a jumbled mess. Organisers are great for smaller items like underwear, socks, and belts. This not only helps in finding things easier but keeps them in shape.

Special things

Some items need a bit more TLC. For example, shoes should be stored with a form or shoe tree to keep their shape. Handbags can be stuffed with tissue paper and stored upright or on a shelf. And don’t forget about seasonal storage; items not in use should be stored in breathable garment bags or containers with a lavender sachet or cedar block to ward off moths.

And finally, avoid the urge to throw your clothes on a chair at the end of the day!