When it’s time to swap your wool sweaters for flip flops, follow these storage tips, from Steve Boorstein, author of The Ultimate Guide to Shopping & Caring for Clothing.Sort. Ask yourself, “Will I wear that next year?” Now is a good time to donate items that may not fit you or your lifestyle anymore.Inspect and clean. Start at the collar, work your way down the garment, checking both front and back of sleeves for stains. Hold skirts, slacks and sweaters under a bright light. If you have worn something, or if you see a stain, your clothes need cleaning. Deodorant, body oils,
and perfumes attract many critters.Store. Clothing should be hung on plastic, or wooden hangers. Remove plastic dry cleaning bags (paper shoulder covers may be left on). After you vacuum the bottom and top corners of your closet, drape a freshly washed, unbleached white sheet over your garments.
Find more space. If your closets are full, store your items in the basement. Use a dehumidifier and check clothes every two weeks for moist or musty smells. Another option: Store clothing inside plastic containers underneath your bed. Put a freshly washed, unbleached sheet inside to absorb moisture.
Consider a dry cleaner. Store coats, suits and fur items at a local dry cleaner. Make a list of items your storing and keep a backup copy. Do repairs beforehand, put monograms on inside linings and get insurance. Ask where the clothes are being stored: on the premises, in a volt, or at a professional storage facility. Deborah DeSanto
