Putting away the old and bringing out the new is an appropriate way to describe how we change our clothes to account for the change of seasons. The clothes that keep us warm during winter make way for a new set of apparel to welcome in the warmth of spring.
Whether it is a do-it-yourself project or the result of hiring a business that provides residential laundry services, knowing how to keep clothes smelling fresh is an important element in breaking out a new set of apparel for a change in season.
Deodorize
Before you store clothes for a few months of hibernation, deodorize the clothes before placing them in a storage container or hanging them in the back of a closet. Wipe the containers used to store the clothes to remove dust, and then apply an odor neutralizer to eliminate musty scents. You can use an old-school odor neutralizer by mixing water and vinegar. Deodorizing is especially helpful for keeping dress shirts smelling clean.
Dryer Sheets
Packing clothes with one or more dryer sheets represents an effective strategy for keeping stored clothes fresh for several months at a time. A single dryer sheet packed in the middle or at the bottom of a storage container delivers a pleasant scent for your clothes that lasts for several months at a time.
Climate-Controlled Storage
Temperature and air circulation are important for maintaining a favorable scent for clothes during a prolonged period of storage. You do not have to invest in a year-round storage unit at the nearest facility. Just increase the airflow of a storage container to dramatically slow the growth of unpleasant-smelling mold spores. The same principle applies to the clothes you hang in an attic or closet.
Dehumidify
If you cannot find a convenient place that has a consistent flow of air to circulate around seasonal apparel, hook up a dehumidifier in an attic or closet to prevent the development of unpleasant odors. A dehumidifier removes humidity to prevent the growth of mold and mildew, while discouraging the presence of moths.
Essential Oils
A couple of drops from a lavender or cedarwood oil bottle covers your clothes with a pleasant scent, while protecting your clothes from moths and other types of troublesome insects. You also can add a few drops of an essential oil to a dryer sheet that you pack with the clothes you store in a container.
Baking Soda
If you take your clothes to a laundry delivery service for cleaning, you might notice a box or two of baking soda strategically placed on the floor of the facility. Baking soda absorbs moisture to prevent the development of unpleasant-smelling mold and mildew. Just remember to replace boxes of baking soda every couple of months to ensure optimal freshness.
Keeping your clothes fresh for an extended stay in storage does require a substantial investment of time and money. Follow a few time-tested tips to keep your clothes smelling fresh throughout the year.
Residential Laundry Services — San Jose & Santa Cruz
Laundry Care Express offers laundry pickup and delivery services to residents all over the Santa Cruz and San Jose areas. Schedule a laundry pick up today.