How to Store Clothes in a Storage Unit

Sep 18, 2025 / Public Storage

Storing clothes can be a great way to save space at home. In order to store clothes, wash and dry your items thoroughly, pack them in sturdy bins with lids, use breathable garment bags for hanging items, and consider climate-controlled storage for longer stays. With the right prep, your wardrobe will stay fresh, organized, and ready for its next season.

Prep Before Packing

Start with a clean slate. Wash or dry-clean every garment so you’re not locking in stains or odors that could worsen over time. Make sure clothes are completely dry to avoid mildew, and double-check pockets for gum, receipts, or lip balm that can cause a mess.

Pick the Right Containers

Plastic bins with lids are the best choice for folded clothing. They’re stackable, dust-resistant, and sturdier than cardboard. Clear bins make it easy to see what’s inside at a glance. For delicate fabrics, slip garments into cotton garment bags or wardrobe boxes.

Pack With Care

Fold heavier items like jeans and sweaters to save space. Hang dresses, coats, and suits in breathable garment bags to help them keep their shape. Use padded hangers for delicate fabrics and wooden hangers for heavy outerwear. Add cedar blocks or lavender sachets to help keep clothes smelling fresh.

Store Shoes and Accessories Too

Clothing storage isn’t just about shirts and sweaters. For shoes, clean them first and stuff boots with socks, tissue, or pool noodles (that’s right!) so they keep their shape. Store belts flat or rolled up and keep hats in lidded boxes to prevent crushing. Small accessories like scarves or gloves can be packed in cloth bags and labeled clearly.

Think Seasonally

One of the biggest perks of a storage unit is the ability to rotate wardrobes. In spring, pack away heavy coats, boots, and sweaters to make space for lightweight summer clothing. In fall, reverse the process. Label bins with clear tags like “Winter Coats” or “Summer Dresses” to save time later. Place the current season’s bin near the front of your storage unit for easy access.

Organize Inside the Unit

Stack heavier bins at the bottom and lighter ones on top, with labels facing out. If you have shelving, use it to keep bins tidy and help prevent box avalanches. Always leave a walkway so you can reach what you need without digging through every container.

Long-Term Care Tips

If you’re storing clothes for more than a few months, check in periodically. Rotate folded garments to prevent creases from setting in. Refresh cedar or lavender sachets every few months. Air out bins once or twice a year to keep fabrics from getting musty.

Common Mistakes to Avoid