How to store your out of season clothes.

The leaves are starting to fall from the trees, the clocks are going back soon, and there is a definite chill in the air, which means it is time for chunky knits, bobble hats and long boots to come out and keep us warm.

The only problem is most UK homes aren't built to keep all seasons of clothes all in one space. So now is the time to think about swapping out your summer dresses and flip flops for your polo necks and slippers. But how is best to do this to keep them in the best condition until the blossom starts to peek through next year? Well, I'll tell you.

As always, the first thing to do is go through all your spring/summer clothing and declutter. Get rid of any items that are damaged or haven't been worn this year. You can use some poetic licence this year as COVID probably means most of us didn't get to go on our sunny beach holiday this year! Pick out what no longer fits and what is just no longer your style. Anything in good condition can be donated. Anything stained with sun cream or similar can either be used at home as rags or taken to your recycling centre.

Once you know how many items you have to store away for winter. Assess where these will best be kept. Do you have an accessible loft? Do you have unused under bed drawers? Do you have a wardrobe in the spare room? Or will they have to be stored on top of your wardrobe or in your linen closet? Wherever it is, make sure that it is accessible. There is usually a moment in November when you realise that the camisole you packed away also works well layered with a jumper. Or that you need your flip flops for swimming.

Now you've found the spot for your sunshine clothes it's time to pack them up. Ensure all items are clean before packing. Dry clean things that need it and wash others as per the instructions. Make sure they are dry and crease-free before packing away so that you should not need to do it all again when you bring them out next spring. Also, check all pockets before packing and do up clasps and zips to make sure they don't catch on any other clothes.

Choosing what to store clothes in is just as important as where to keep them. Although plastic vacuum bags seem like a great space-saving idea if possible, avoid plastic when storing clothes and go for more breathable options instead. You could use boxes, bags or even pillowcases. I love these large capacity bags with handles and a window to see what's in there but pick something that will suit the space you have. 

If you live in older houses or will be storing in a dark space, then I'd recommend adding something into your storage that will keep the moths away. This is another good reason to make sure your clothes are freshly washed as moths feed on keratin,which is not only found in natural fibres like wool and silk but can also be found in bodily secretions like sweat and skin and hair cells! Other than making sure your clothes are clean, you can also add cedarwood balls or sachets to your storage. Or you can use essential oils that contain cedarwood - either in the room you're storing the clothes in or in the bag or box itself.

To make the most of your space, folding your clothes neatly and consistently is the best way. I use the Marie Kondo folding technique which takes up so much less space than conventional folding but however you do it - keep it neat and compact. 

And voila, you then have all your spring/summer wardrobe packed away to make room for those cardigans, bed socks and fleece pyjamas.

How and where do you store your clothes when they are not in season? Let me know in the comments below.

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