How to Pack Your Closet For On-Demand Storage

The seasons are changing, and so are the clothes in your closet. Even in Northern California, temperatures drop as the days get shorter and nights turn longer. You’ve probably heard of spring cleaning, but did you know there’s such a thing as autumn cleaning too? When you’re headed into a season full of adventurous winter sports that require a lot of layers—and equipment— a wardrobe change can be quite helpful. But space is limited in city living which is why many people turn to on-demand storage to store their seasonal belongings. Packing for on-demand storage is a little different than storing your things in another section of your house though. Here are our best packing tips we have for on-demand storage:

1. Wash Your Clothes Before Storing

Storing clothes with stains and that are dirty can damage them, and attract bugs. The first step before sending your wardrobe to on-demand storage is to give everything one good last wash. Fabric softeners have been known to attract beetles though; this is one step you can skip.

2. Give Your Clothes Air to Breathe

Your instinct may be to store your clothes in sealed bags, but the truth is the natural fibers in clothes need access to oxygen in order to survive. A lack of fresh air can actually damage them. Avoid packing your things in sealed bags.

3. Try to Avoid Cardboard Boxes

Cardboard boxes make it easy for vermin like mice and rats to nibble through and make their way to your belongings. A more stable and secure container like our Boxbee is always a better option.

4. Organize Your Things Around Specific Events

“Out of sight, out of mind,” applies to storing your belongings, too. You’ll be surprised how quickly you forget what you tucked away. This is why we always recommend organizing your things around events or activities. For example, all of your mountain biking or snowboarding gear in one container.

5. Take Pictures

Another good way to remember what is where is to take photos of each container you pack. This will be immensely helpful when you have your things returned from on-demand storage.

6. Consider Color-Coding

For the organization enthusiasts (you know who you are), consider color coding each box. The last thing you’ll want to do is tear apart each container looking for that one specific item.

7. Roll Your Clothes

Finally, the most efficient way to pack your clothes is to roll them as opposed to folding them. This is the best way to maximize space in each box. There you have it. Seven efficient ways to prepare your closet for the big on-demand storage move. Good luck!