How to Switch Out Seasonal Clothing

Keep your clothing organized and well-cared for throughout each season with our how-to list.

Clothes-Closet_4852424_s4x3

Let the changing seasons be your cue to evaluate what's in your clothes closet. Expert organizer Monica Ricci of Catalyst Organizing Solutions (www.catalystorganizing.com) gives her 10 tips to keep you and your closets organized for each season.

Don't switch everything.

Seasonal switch-out time is the perfect opportunity to evaluate every piece of clothing you wear. Does it fit you like a dream? Do you love the cut and color? Do you wear it at least twice a season? Is it still a current style? If so, it's a keeper. If not, donate it.

Clean the closet.

Vacuum your closet and watch for signs of insects. Be sure that the closet or area is also clean and free of anything that bugs might find delicious. Dust, other insects, crumb or food and beverage stains on your clothing are all attractive to pests.

Clean your clothes before you store them away.

Clean clothing resists pests better, plus invisible spots on your clothing can oxidize and become permanent stains during the time the item is stored. Launder each item or dry clean it, and be sure to remove dry cleaning bags because they can trap moisture and cause permanent stains. Tip: When cleaning before storage, avoid using bleach, fabric softener, sizing or starch. These items are a virtual buffet line for insects.

Toss the wire hangers.

Hangers_4852424_s4x3

Hang lightweight clothing on quality hangers and store them in breathable garment bags to keep them wrinkle-free. A rolling garment rack is an easy way to store hanging clothes and the wheels make it a breeze to move from room to room if necessary. It's best to fold and stack heavy and knit items.

Don't use cardboard boxes.

Clothes-Storage_4852424_s4x3

Avoid storing clothing in cardboard boxes because they can break down and attract insects. For short-term storage, cardboard is fine, but for more than a few months, use plastic containers with lids. Be sure these containers aren't airtight. Air cirulation will help avoid mold and mildew. If you're concerned about air movement in a plastic container, you can always drill several small holes in the top and sides of the container prior to filling them.

Keep clothes out of the basement and attic.

Climate control is key. Store clothing in the main areas of your home or in a climate controlled storage facility. Basements and attics are too humid and are an invitation to mold, mildew and insects. Consider storing out-of-season clothing beneath staircases, extra closets, under beds and even in your main closet if you have space.

Preserve precious clothing.

When storing items long term — such as wedding dresses, baby clothing or other special clothing that you won't be accessing for years on end — consider having them professionally preserved. Another option is to make sure they're spotless (remember, no starch, bleach, fabric softener or sizing), wrap them in acid-free tissue and store in an archival storage box.

Be careful with delicates.

Fold delicate items rather than on hangers to prevent them from sagging, stretching or otherwise becoming misshapen. Remember, when stacking clothing, heaviest items should be on the bottom and lighter items on the top of the stack.

Take advantage of free services.

Remember that most dry cleaners will store anything you have cleaned for no charge. If you're short on space, this is a terrific option.

Be aware that cedar stains.

If you are storing clothing in a cedar chest or another wooden container, be sure to line it with acid-free paper, muslin or even old, clean, cotton bed sheets. This will keep the wood from contacting the clothing directly, which could stain or damage the item.

Next Up

How to Organize a Closet: Tips for Clearing Closet Clutter

Get the organized closet of your dreams with our strategies for storing clothes, photos and art supplies. Plus, learn how to turn your closet into a home office.

Quick Tips for Home Organization

Try these quick home organization tips for maintaining a clutter-free home from basement to attic.

How to Clean Your Cellphone

Remove bacteria from your phone with these simple steps.

How to Hand-Wash Clothes

Make clothes last longer and target tough stains by hand-washing items such as bras, lingerie, tights, sweaters, baby clothes and more.

How to Get Stains Out of Carpet

A good quality carpet could last for many years with proper care and maintenance. Learn how to remove stains from wine, nail polish, coffee and more.

How to Successfully Organize Your Pantry and Keep It Neat All Year

Follow these pantry organizing tips to make your kitchen look professional-level organized.

25 Functional and Attractive Shoe Storage Ideas

Shop our favorite shoe storage ideas, from over-the-door organizers to chic entryway benches.

How to Get Rid of Clothes and Pantry Moths

Remove and prevent pantry moths and clothing moths from your home with these simple, effective techniques.

How to Remove Sunscreen Stains From Clothes, Upholstery and Car Seats

Oils and minerals in sunscreens can often stain clothing and upholstery. Learn how to remove sunscreen from furniture, clothes and other fabrics before stains set in.

Help for the Kitchen Organizer

Make your kitchen more efficient with these clever storage products.

Go Shopping

Get product recommendations from HGTV editors, plus can’t-miss sales and deals.

On TV

Follow Us Everywhere

Join the party! Don't miss HGTV in your favorite social media feeds.