When it comes to storing clothing, many of us tend to overlook the importance of dry cleaning our clothes beforehand. However, there are numerous compelling reasons why this is a must-do before packing your outfits away in any storage facility, including Juujbox storage.
Read on to learn all about why it’s important to get your clothes to a professional dry cleaner before putting them away.
Why You Should Dry Clean Your Clothing Before Storing Them
Eliminates Stains and Odors
To effectively eliminate stains and odors from clothing before storage, dry cleaning is highly recommended. This method utilizes solvents instead of water, allowing it to easily remove tough stains and odors that may not come out with traditional washing methods. Solvents dissolve oils and dirt without harming the fabric fibers or causing watermarks.
Moreover, storing clothes without being dry cleaned may allow for stains and odors to become set-in over time, making removal much harder later on. This could even attract insects or pests that are drawn to the smells or stains on the fabric, resulting in further damage or infestations.
Prevents Mold and Mildew Growth
Dry cleaning clothes before storing them can prevent mold and mildew growth, and there are a couple of reasons for this. One of the primary causes of mold and mildew growth in clothes is the accumulation of moisture in fabrics. Storing clothes that are not properly cleaned and dried can create a humid environment and promote mold and mildew growth.
By dry cleaning your clothes before storage, you can eliminate any moisture that may be present and ensure that your clothes are completely dry. This eliminates the dampness that molds and mildews require to thrive, preventing growth.
Furthermore, dry cleaning can eliminate any existing mold or mildew spores in your clothes. Dry cleaning solvents have the power to kill these organisms and halt their spread, helping to keep clothes mold-free and fresh.
Protects Fabric Integrity
Clothes not properly cleaned before storage risk being weakened or damaged over time, worn down by the friction between dirt and fabric fibers. This could manifest as piling, fraying or other signs of wear and tear.
Specialized fabrics, like silk and wool, demand extra care. Dry cleaning stands out as gentle and effective at cleaning these garments without distorting or damaging their fibers. With the solvents used in dry cleaning, your clothes can maintain their quality, color and texture over time as they receive gentle care, without the abrasion that could otherwise cause them damage.
How to Properly Dry Clean Clothes for Storage
Choose a Reputable Dry Cleaner
By taking the time to find a reputable dry cleaner, you’ll have peace of mind that your clothes are in good hands. When selecting a dry cleaner, there are a few key things to look for:
- Ask for recommendations from family and friends who have had positive experiences with specific dry cleaners.
- Do your research online and read reviews from other customers.
- It’s also important to consider the cleaning process and techniques your dry cleaner uses, as well as their customer service and pricing.
Communicate Storage Intentions
Whether you plan on keeping your clothes in your closet or need them placed in a self storage unit, letting the cleaners know ahead of time can make the process much smoother. That way, the dry cleaner can take extra care to protect your clothes from moisture, dust, and other elements that can damage them over time.
Store Clothing Properly After Dry Cleaning
When it comes to storing freshly dry-cleaned clothing, there are a few important steps you should take to ensure they stay in pristine condition while in a self storage unit:
- Make sure the garments are completely dry before packing them away. Moisture can attract mold and mildew, which can damage the fabric.
- Use breathable garment bags to protect the clothing from dust and potential moisture. Be sure to label the bags clearly so you can easily find what you need later.
- The acid-free paper prevents yellowing of the clothes, and it also prevents any transfer of dye from one garment to another.
- Don’t overcrowd the storage unit. Instead, allow enough space for air to circulate freely around your clothes.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to storing clothing, it’s important to take the necessary steps to ensure that they remain in good condition. One effective way to do this is by having them dry cleaned before storage.
While some may hesitate at the cost of dry cleaning, the long-term benefits outweigh the initial investment. Trust us, when it’s time to pull those clothes out for the next season, you’ll be grateful for the decision to have them dry cleaned beforehand!