As the seasons change in Joliet, IL, it’s tempting to just toss your winter coats or summer dresses into storage bins and call it a day. But did you know that skipping a few important steps, especially dry cleaning, seriously shortens the life of your clothes?
Swan Cleaners helps our customers protect their wardrobes year-round with eco-friendly dry cleaning and expert garment care. Here’s how to store your off-season clothes the right way.
Why You Should Always Clean Clothes Before Storing Them
Even if your clothes look clean, invisible stains from sweat, deodorant, oils, and spills can attract insects and cause yellowing or mildew over time. By professionally dry cleaning items before storage, you’re:
- Removing unseen dirt and bacteria
- Preventing moth and mold damage
- Preserving fabric color and structure
Our eco-friendly dry cleaning process at Swan Cleaners is gentle on fabrics but tough on stains, making it the perfect first step before your wardrobe goes into hibernation. We even offer pick-up and drop-off services to make your life easier!
Best Items to Dry Clean Before Storage
While you may be able to wash some basics at home, these items should always be professionally cleaned before they’re packed away:
- Wool coats and jackets
- Cashmere or knit sweaters
- Suits and blazers
- Dresses made of silk, satin, or rayon
- Delicate skirts or work slacks
- Formal wear or seasonal evening attire
Not sure what needs dry cleaning? Bring in your items and we’ll help you decide.
How to Store Cleaned Clothes for the Off-Season
Once your clothes are professionally cleaned, follow these steps for long-term storage:
- Use breathable garment bags or cotton sheets. Plastic traps moisture and leads to mildew.
- Fold sweaters. Hang structured pieces. To maintain your clothes’ shape, fold knits and hang jackets or coats on padded hangers.
- Add cedar or lavender sachets. These natural repellents help keep moths away.
- Avoid basements or attics. Opt for cool, dry closets with minimal sunlight.
Let Swan Cleaners Take Care Of Your Clothes Between Seasons
Between seasonal deep cleans, yardwork, and your regular busy schedule, prepping your wardrobe might feel like a low priority. That’s where we come in.
Swan Cleaners makes it easy to clean and protect your clothing. With our eco-friendly dry cleaning, convenient pick-up and drop-off, and expert care, Joliet locals know they have a trusted team ready to help.
Stop by our Joliet location or schedule a pick-up today and let us help you store your off-season wardrobe the right way.