After investing time and money into having your cherished garments professionally dry cleaned, ensuring their longevity and pristine condition during storage is important. Proper storage techniques can extend the life of your dry cleaned clothes to keep them looking fresh. Follow the tips and tricks we've shared below to help you effectively store your dry cleaned clothes.
Invest in high-quality hangers for your dry cleaned clothes. Hangers that provide the proper support to your garments' shoulders prevent them from losing shape over time. Avoid using wire hangers for delicate fabrics, as they can cause creases and distortions.
Use Garment Bags When Storing Your Dry Cleaned Clothes
Garment bags act as a protective shield against dust, light, and potential snags. Opt for breathable, fabric garment bags instead of plastic ones because plastic bags can trap moisture and cause mildew. Remember to leave the bottom of the garment bag slightly open to allow air circulation.
Empty Pockets and Unbutton/Unzip
Before storing your dry cleaned items, ensure all pockets are empty and buttons and zippers are unfastened. This prevents unnecessary stress on the fabric and reduces the risk of permanent creases or damage.
Fold Delicate Items
For delicate fabrics such as silk, lace, and cashmere, you should fold those garments instead of hanging them. Hanging these items could lead to stretching and distortion. You can use acid-free tissue paper between folds to prevent friction and color transfer.
Use Climate-Controlled Storage
Choose a storage area that is climate-controlled and away from direct sunlight. Fluctuations in temperature and humidity can negatively impact the integrity of your garments, leading to deterioration over time.
Do Not Overcrowd
Avoid overcrowding your storage space because it can cause wrinkles and creases. You want to give each garment enough room to breathe to maintain its original shape.
Rotate Your Collection
To prevent undue stress on specific items, rotate your collection by wearing different pieces periodically. This ensures that no single garment is consistently subjected to pressure from storage.
Regular Inspection
Make it a habit to inspect your stored dry cleaned items every few months. This lets you catch any signs of damage, fading, or discoloration early. Promptly address any issues to prevent them from worsening.
Avoid Plastic Containers
Plastic containers can trap moisture, leading to mold and mildew growth. Instead, breathable fabric storage containers or acid-free cardboard boxes should be used. Remember to label the containers for easy identification.
Steer Clear of Perfumes and Sprays
Avoid spraying perfumes, colognes, or other chemicals near your stored items. These substances can interact with fabrics, causing discoloration or staining.
Avoid Cedar and Mothballs
While cedar and mothballs are often used to repel pests, they can also emit strong odors that your clothes might absorb. Instead, opt for lavender sachets or cedar chips placed in cloth bags to protect your items from insects without compromising their freshness.
Separate by Fabric Type
Store similar fabrics together to prevent potential color bleeding or fabric damage. For example, heavier fabrics like wool and corduroy should be stored separately from lighter fabrics like silk or linen.
Properly storing your dry cleaned items requires a little extra effort, but the benefits of preserving the quality and appearance of your clothes are well worth it. By following these expert tips, you can ensure that your favorite garments remain in excellent condition and are ready to be worn whenever you choose.
Contact us if you have additional questions about caring for your dry cleaned items and the importance of following your clothing's care label.
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