10 pro tips for storing and organizing clothes between seasons.
Written by Les Rivières | March 29, 2021
Has your wardrobe filled up over the winter season? Have your children lost their 40th pair of mittens? Have your snow pants got holes in them? Is your entrance hall wardrobe overflowing? If you answered yes to at least two of these questions, you are in dire need of tidying up and organizing the whole family’s clothes. Take advantage of the gray days to accomplish this task. The good news is that we have a few tips to help you succeed like a pro.
Sorting your winter clothes
1- Check the condition of the clothing
Too small, too big, too tight; plan a fitting session for the whole family… even for yourself! Which clothes will still be good next year? Do you still have all your pairs of mittens? Is any of the clothing too damaged to be repaired? Sort the clothes into 3 piles: to be repaired, to be given away or sold, to be thrown away. You could do the same exercise for winter boots.
2- Donate/sell clothes that no longer fit
With the pile of clothes that won’t be worn next winter, you have two choices: sell or donate. With online sales platforms, the process is simple and efficient. Take a photo of the items and simply add them with the price. If you decide to make a donation, there are several options available to you depending on your region. Find out more from local organizations. You can do the same with adults’ clothes. Do you have a coat you no longer wear? Sell it or give it away.
3- Getting clothes repaired
Although it’s very exciting to buy new clothes, some items such as snowsuits can be repaired and reused next season. Did you know that we offer a dressmaking service? Visit the De Fil en Aiguille or Singer shops. Zip, small hole and other repairs can be taken care of just before putting the clothes away, so you’ll be ready when the cold season returns!
4- Take advantage of the sales
To buy new clothes or accessories for next winter, there’s nothing better than taking advantage of the end-of-season sales this year. Make a list and visit the shops in the Les Rivières Center. Some accessories will still be trendy next year. Don’t wait, because they are often available in limited quantities.
5- Cleaning
Did you know that skin oils and calcium can damage clothes that have been stored for too long? Before putting your clothes away, clean all the items you are going to keep for next year. This step is essential to properly protect the fibers. Coats, tuques, scarves, mittens; everything must be washed. And if your entrance wardrobe is empty, take the opportunity to clean it thoroughly as well. With the return of sunny days, use your clothesline to air all your clothes and dry them well.
Storing winter clothes
Before proceeding to this stage, be aware that once clothes have been cleaned, they hate being stored in damp conditions. So avoid cardboard boxes and thin plastic dry cleaning covers. Prioritize plastic or cotton storage to properly protect the fibers. In addition, be sure to choose a room or location where the humidity level is acceptable. If you can, prioritize wardrobes and bedding. The fibers should also be kept away from direct light and sunlight.
6 - Prepare bins and boxes
If you have enough space, get one bin per family member. Label them with their name or a different color. Use plastic and fabric to wick away moisture. Roll the clothes, not too tightly, to let the fibers breathe. If you have wool coats, we recommend hanging them instead (next point).
7- Choose the right hangers for coats
As your coats will be left on a hanger for a long time, prioritize hangers with a rounded shape at the bottom. You can be sure that the coats will keep their shape, especially if they are made of wool. You are sure to find some at the Hart shop.
8- Use covers
To store your coats on hangers, you will also need covers. As mentioned above, plastic should be avoided, as it creates a lot of moisture. Prefer cotton covers. You can even make your own cover by simply punching holes in the center of a large piece of cotton fabric.
9- Think about the smells
There’s nothing better than taking out some freshly-smelling clothes from storage. Use dryer balls and add a few drops of essential oils. To dispel any myths, choose cedar, eucalyptus or lavender essential oils.
Then put them in your drawers. Visit the Kozy shop to purchase several fragrances of essential oils.
There are also small sachets filled with lavender that can be used to add freshness to your clothes. You can also place sheets of fabric softener between your clothes.
10- Organize the tidying up
Before you complete your big spring clean, think about how you will sort the clothes inside your bins. Place the small, thin hats on top, as you will probably need them first in the fall. Do the same for mittens and coats. Put the waterproof pants on top and the snow gear underneath. All that’s left is to plan your day and get to work. Ask for help from all the members of your family to get the job done. Come fall, all your fall and winter clothes will be ready and in good condition.
