| When that closet becomes full and room for new | | | | moths. These will offer protection for your |
| clothes becomes sparse, a self storage unit may | | | | clothes without the lingering smell of moth balls or |
| be just what you need to get the clothes you | | | | other chemical pest control items. |
| aren't wearing, but still want to hold on to into a | | | | When using hangers, use non-metallic hangers that |
| safe place. When putting clothing items into a self | | | | won't rust. Cover all hangers with washed, |
| storage unit, it is important to take every | | | | non-bleached muslin fabric so the clothing has no |
| precaution to protect your clothing from being | | | | direct contact with the hanger. |
| damaged, whether by environmental variables or | | | | Be specific when labeling storage containers. |
| pests. Here is a list of things that will help keep | | | | Include the item type, the date it was stored, and |
| your clothing looking and feeling new until the day | | | | any other important information particular to the |
| you decide to take it back out of storage: | | | | clothing being stored. |
| Clean all clothes thoroughly prior to storage. For | | | | Use a dehumidifier such as silica gel, (the same |
| long term storage, do not use starch or any | | | | thing that comes with some food or medication |
| other type of finishing product on the clothes as it | | | | containers) to prevent mold or mildew from |
| will attract moths or other pests you don't want | | | | forming. |
| in your clothing. | | | | Each individual item should be separated by a |
| The place where you store your clothes should | | | | sheet of acid free tissue paper. This will help to |
| be cool, dry, and dark. Sunlight, extreme heat and | | | | maintain the integrity of each item and prevent |
| humidity can be damaging to clothing. | | | | mildew or dye transfer between garments. |
| Try not to leave clothing in storage for more than | | | | Store fabrics with as few folds and creases as |
| a year without inspecting its condition. If you are | | | | possible. Acid free tissue paper should be placed in |
| storing clothing for an extended amount of time, | | | | between creases to prevent fiber breakage on |
| do routine checks every 8-12 months to make | | | | fold lines. |
| sure there is no mold or pest infestation. | | | | Take extra care when storing clothing in tropical |
| Do not use vacuum sealed bags or airtight | | | | climate, humid areas such as San Diego. Self |
| containers to store your clothes. This can | | | | storage is always a great option and there are |
| promote the growth of mold. Clothing should have | | | | many San Diego self storage facilities available for |
| access to proper ventilation. | | | | you. |
| Cedar blocks are a great, all natural way to deter | | | | |