When the seasons change, so does your closet. Storing summer sundresses or packing away heavy winter coats is part of the annual wardrobe shuffle. But what many people overlook is the importance of dry cleaning garments before putting them into long-term storage. It's not just about cleanliness—it's about preservation.
Prevent Damage Before It Starts
Even if an item looks clean, invisible stains and body oils can remain on fabrics. Over time, these can oxidize, causing yellowing or permanent marks. Storing dirty clothing can also invite moths or fabric pests, especially in natural fibers like wool and silk. Dry cleaning removes hidden residue and protects against damage that might only show up months later—when it’s too late to fix.
Protect Fabric Integrity
Certain fabrics—cashmere, wool, silk—require special care. Tossing these items in the wash can cause shrinkage, stretching, or fiber breakdown. Dry cleaning uses specialized solvents instead of water, keeping delicate fabrics intact and smooth. If you're planning to store fine garments like coats, suits, or evening wear, dry cleaning is essential to ensure they maintain their original shape and texture.
Odor Elimination
Closets and storage bins can trap odors, especially if garments weren’t cleaned before storage. What starts as a faint smell can become stronger and harder to eliminate months later. Dry cleaning uses solvents and professional processes that go beyond surface cleaning, removing lingering scents like sweat, perfume, or food. Your clothes come out fresh—and stay that way through the season.
Prevent Mold and Mildew
Storing clothes in damp or humid conditions increases the risk of mold and mildew, which can cause lasting damage and health concerns. Dry cleaners thoroughly dry garments before returning them, ensuring there’s no residual moisture that could cause problems later. Proper preparation reduces the likelihood of returning to musty, discolored clothing.
Save Time Next Season
When the weather turns and it’s time to swap out your wardrobe again, you’ll be glad your items are ready to wear. Clean, pressed clothes mean less hassle, fewer wrinkles, and no urgent trips to the cleaners. Whether it’s your favorite wool coat or that linen dress you only wear once a year, having it stored in pristine condition makes the seasonal transition smoother.
Extend Garment Life
Storing your clothing clean doesn’t just protect it in the short term—it helps it last longer overall. Regular dry cleaning reduces fiber stress and wear caused by soil and residue. Think of it as preventive care for your wardrobe: the cleaner it goes in, the better it comes out.
Before boxing up your wardrobe for the season, let Laundry Care Express help you protect your investment. Our professional dry cleaning ensures each garment is cleaned, inspected, and returned ready for storage. With free pickup and next-business-day delivery, it's never been easier to treat your clothes with care.