The changing of the seasons isn’t just about switching your thermostat or pulling out a different pair of shoes, it’s also the perfect time to take care of your wardrobe. If you’re tired of pulling out musty sweaters in the fall or faded linens in the spring, it may be time to rethink how you prep clothes for season changes. At Hangers Cleaners, we’ve helped countless Arkansas families organize, clean, and protect their wardrobes the right way. Here’s how to do it without damaging your clothes, or your sanity.
Why Seasonal Prep Matters
When seasons change, so do the needs of your wardrobe. Heavy winter knits, wool coats, summer dresses, and linen pants all require different care before going into long-term storage. If you don’t take the time to prep clothes for season transitions, you run the risk of permanent wrinkles, fabric breakdown, odors, mold, and even pest damage.
Proper seasonal prep helps:
- Extend the life of your garments
- Keep clothes looking and smelling fresh
- Save space in your closet
- Make it easier to rotate your wardrobe later
Step One: Start With a Clean Slate
Before you even think about folding and boxing things up, your clothes need to be freshly cleaned. Dirt, sweat, and invisible oils from your skin can cause yellowing, mildew, or attract moths if left untreated. One of the biggest mistakes people make when they prep clothes for season changes is storing items that were only “lightly worn.”
At Hangers Cleaners, we recommend professionally cleaning anything made of:
- Wool
- Silk
- Linen
- Velvet
- Cashmere
- Heavily embellished fabrics
Even items like t-shirts and jeans benefit from a proper wash and press before being packed away. Starting clean ensures that when it’s time to wear them again, they’re ready to go.
Step Two: Inspect and Repair
Seasonal storage is the perfect time to catch small issues before they become big ones. Check for:
- Loose buttons
- Pulled threads
- Small stains
- Worn seams
- Holes at the corners or cuffs
Don’t store damaged clothes hoping you’ll “get to it later.” They’ll only get worse in storage. Bring them to us—we can handle light repairs and spot treatments while cleaning your garments professionally.
Step Three: Choose the Right Storage Materials
How you store your clothes matters just as much as how you clean them. Skip the plastic grocery bags and wire hangers. Instead, opt for:
- Cotton or muslin garment bags for hanging items
- Clear plastic bins with tight-fitting lids for folded clothes
- Acid-free tissue paper between layers of delicate fabrics
- Cedar blocks or lavender satchels to deter moths
To properly prep clothes for season swaps, avoid airtight containers for natural fibers, they need ventilation. And never store clothing directly on wooden shelves without a protective layer. The acids in raw wood can discolor fabric over time.
Step Four: Fold vs. Hang
Not every garment should go on a hanger. Heavy knits like sweaters will stretch and lose their shape if hung. Delicate fabrics can develop hanger marks. Follow these simple rules:
Fold: Sweaters, t-shirts, jeans, scarves
Hang: Dresses, coats, trousers, dress shirts
Use padded or wooden hangers for structured items and make sure each garment has enough breathing room to avoid creases.
Step Five: Store Smart
Where you store your clothes matters. Attics, garages, and basements are often subject to moisture, temperature swings, and bugs. Aim for a cool, dry, dark place like a closet or under-bed storage container.
Make sure all containers are sealed and labeled by season and category.That way, when it’s time to rotate again, you’re not guessing what’s where.
Bonus: Refresh Before Re-Wearing
Even if you followed every tip perfectly, clothes that have been stored for months may still need a refresh. When you bring out your stored wardrobe, give it a quick inspection. If it feels stiff or smells slightly musty, a quick trip to Hangers Cleaners can breathe new life into your favorite seasonal items.
Keep Your Wardrobe Looking Its Best Year-Round
Taking the time to prep clothes for season changes doesn’t just save you effort later—it protects the investment you’ve made in your wardrobe. With the right care, your garments can last for years and look great every time you wear them.
Need help with cleaning, repairs, or garment prep? At Hangers Cleaners, we’ve got you covered. We know how to treat delicate fabrics, handle seasonal items, and store your clothes the right way, so you don’t have to worry about a thing.
Visit one of our locations or schedule a pickup today, and let us help you keep your closet ready, season after season.