Tips to Store Your Winter Clothes Properly in Singapore
In our hot and humid country, many of us dream of cooler weather during our well-deserved holidays. Popular destinations like Japan, Korea, and Europe are top choices for Singaporeans during the December holidays (fun fact: we often refer to it as the "December holiday," not the "winter holiday," right? 😊).
After your holiday, it's time to think about storing your winter clothes. Proper storage is crucial because failing to do so can easily ruin your jackets, sweaters, and other winter wear, making them unwearable in the future. Here's how to store them the right way:
1. Wash Your Clothes Before Storing Them
This may sound counterintuitive, but washing your clothes before storage is absolutely necessary. It's a common mistake that many people make, and it can be costly in the long run.
Perspiration, body lotions, perfumes, and oils can oxidize over time, causing yellowing and bacteria buildup.
While these stains may not be visible when you store your clothes, they will develop and become harder to remove later. So, the golden rule is: wash your clothes before storing them!
2. Use Lavender Sachets for Storage
Proper storage also involves preventing odors and musty smells. Lavender sachets are an excellent tool for this purpose. Not only do they keep your clothes smelling fresh, but they also repel moths. You can also try using lemon peels. Dried lemon peels won't leave any residue on your clothes and offer a fresh, natural scent.
Many customers have asked us about using mothballs. At My Locker Laundry, we do not recommend mothballs for storage. These pesticide products contain harmful chemicals like naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene, which are toxic and can be dangerous, especially to children and pets. Prolonged exposure to naphthalene can damage red blood cells, and paradichlorobenzene has been linked to cancer.
If you must use mothballs, be sure to wash any clothing that has been stored with them before wearing it, as the vapors can absorb into the fibers. We highly recommend lavender sachets or lemon peels instead, as they are natural, safe alternatives.
3. Avoid Using Plastic Garment Bags for Long-Term Storage
Although My Locker Laundry uses high-quality garment bags to return your clothes, we do not recommend using them for long-term storage. Over time, plastic bags can trap moisture, leading to deterioration and yellowing of fabric fibers. For proper preservation, store clothes in breathable materials like cotton, linen, or fabric garment bags.
Plastic bags and storage boxes are not ideal for long-term use. If you're looking for good options, consider linen storage boxes from Muji.
Happy Storing and Enjoy Your Winter Holiday!
By following these simple tips, your winter clothes will stay fresh and in great condition, ready for your next chilly getaway. Remember, proper storage is key to maintaining the quality and longevity of your garments.