Putting Hanging Clothes in Storage? Do It the Right Way
Whether you’re moving, decluttering, or simply rotating your seasonal wardrobe, storing clothes in a storage unit is a smart move. But what about the garments you usually keep on hangers—like suits, dresses, blazers, or coats?
If you’re wondering how to put hanging clothes in storage unit without ruining them, you’re in the right place. Storing hanging clothes improperly can lead to wrinkles, mold, stretching, and even fabric decay. But done right, your wardrobe will stay fresh, organized, and ready to wear—even after months in storage.
Should You Store Clothes on Hangers at All?
Before you bring out the garment bags and racks, ask yourself: does this item actually benefit from being hung?
✅ Clothes You Should Hang in Storage:
Suits and blazers
Button-down shirts
Long coats or trench coats
Dresses (especially wrinkle-prone fabrics)
Lightweight jackets
Dress pants with creases
❌ Clothes Better Off Folded:
Knitwear (sweaters, cardigans)
T-shirts or tank tops
Jeans
Heavy wool items (which may stretch over time)
Rule of thumb: If it has structure, shape, or gets wrinkled easily—it belongs on a hanger.
5 Steps to Store Hanging Clothes Safely in a Storage Unit
1. Wash and Dry Everything Before You Store It
Even if something “looks clean,” any traces of sweat, perfume, or body oil can attract bugs or cause yellowing in long-term storage. Wash or dry clean your garments before hanging them.
2. Choose the Right Hangers
Avoid wire hangers. They bend easily and can leave dents or rust marks.
Best options:
Wooden hangers for heavy coats or suits
Velvet/felt hangers for delicate or silky fabrics
Padded hangers for dresses or blouses
Avoid overcrowding hangers—give each item some breathing room.
3. Use Garment Bags or Zippered Covers
Covering your hanging clothes helps block out dust, light, and pests. Don’t use dry cleaner bags or regular plastic—they trap moisture and encourage mold.
Instead:
Use breathable cotton or non-woven garment bags
For budget options, use a large cotton sheet draped over several hangers
Look for zippered bags with a transparent window for easy ID
4. Use a Garment Rack or Wardrobe Box
Unless your storage unit has built-in rods (most don’t), you’ll need to bring your own hanging solution.
Options:
Portable garment racks (with wheels, optional covers)
Wardrobe boxes (usually cardboard with metal hanger bar)
Freestanding closet systems or shelves with hanging bar
Avoid letting clothes hang from hooks or door handles—they’ll lose shape and wrinkle.
5. Avoid Crushing or Overpacking
Clothes need space to breathe. Cramming everything onto one rack causes wrinkling and makes it hard to find anything later.
Tips:
Space hangers evenly
Don’t place heavy boxes on the rack’s lower bar
If stacking is necessary, use soft bags—never squash clothes between hard bins
What Kind of Storage Unit Is Best for Hanging Clothes?
Not all units are created equal. Hanging garments need protection from the elements.
✅ Choose a Climate-Controlled Unit
Especially if you’re storing items for more than a few weeks, climate control is worth the extra cost. It maintains stable temperature and humidity, protecting fabrics from:
Mold and mildew
Fabric brittleness
Color fading or yellowing
Warping or insect damage
If climate control isn’t an option, place silica gel packets in the garment bags and keep clothes off the floor using risers or pallets.
Storage Mistakes to Avoid with Hanging Clothes
Even with good equipment, one small misstep can undo your efforts. Watch out for:
Storing damp clothes → Instant mildew risk
Using plastic dry-cleaner bags → Traps moisture, encourages yellowing
Overfilling racks → Causes sagging, permanent wrinkles
Letting clothes touch the unit floor or walls → Can absorb condensation
Skipping ventilation → Airflow is key in long-term storage
Long-Term Tips to Keep Clothes Fresh in Storage
If your clothes will be stored for more than a season, take extra steps:
Add cedar blocks or lavender sachets inside garment bags (natural pest repellents)
Open the unit every few months to inspect and “air out” items
Use tags or color-coded hangers to label categories: “Fall Jackets,” “Eventwear,” “Office”
Rotate the front/back of your hanging items to prevent fabric pressure spots
FAQ: How to Put Hanging Clothes in Storage Unit
Q: Is it okay to hang clothes in a storage unit long-term?
Yes, as long as the garments are clean, dry, and stored with adequate ventilation and garment bags. Climate control is highly recommended.
Q: Can I use regular hangers in storage?
Avoid wire hangers. Use sturdy wooden or velvet ones to maintain shape and prevent damage.
Q: Should I fold or hang clothes for storage?
It depends. Fold bulky knitwear and casual items. Hang structured pieces like jackets, blouses, and dresses.
Q: How do I keep clothes from smelling musty in storage?
Use breathable covers, lavender sachets, and silica packets. Avoid sealing clothes in plastic.
Conclusion: Hang Smart, Store Smarter
Storing clothes on hangers doesn’t have to lead to ruined fabrics or wrinkled messes. With the right garment rack, hangers, breathable covers, and storage unit, your wardrobe will stay safe, clean, and wrinkle-free—whether it’s for a month or a year.
Don’t just throw your clothes on a rack and hope for the best. Store them smart—because future-you deserves freshly pressed, ready-to-wear outfits.
