No matter how long the winter is, spring is sure to follow. With pleasant sun-kissed days, cool evenings, sporadic light showers and colourful flowers blooming in the gardens, it’s time to bring out our favourite floral prints and toss away thermals into the store.

But wait...if you do chuck your woollies heedlessly, there will certainly be nasty surprises waiting for you next winter in the form of mildew, mould and larvae. If you don’t want that, then it’s advisable to spend a few hours packing your garments properly, so they stay as good as new. Here are a few simple steps that will save you from expensive fixes a couple of seasons from now; so get busy and stack away your woollies nicely, before you miss the fun of spring.


It’s getting warmer, which means it’s time to stow away your winter wear. Unless you want to open your trunk next year and be confronted with mouldy clothes, follow our tips on how to store your woollies and thermals properly


Prepare before you pack

This season is ideal for emptying and cleaning all the places where you store your garments. Whether it’s a cupboard, closet or an overhead rack, wipe, brush or vacuum the shelves and crevices thoroughly to remove dust, dirt and any traces of insects. If you are using fabric bags for packing your winter clothes, quickly run them through the washing machine once. In case you are using plastic cartons, ensure that they are made of cast polypropylene (look for ‘PP’ abbreviations) to prevent any discoloration of clothes. Line the carton with acid-free tissue paper to keep your clothes from touching its plastic surface. Remember; always remove plastic bags from dry-cleaned clothes as they trap moisture, causing yellowness to clothes.

Choose your container

Some people keep their clothes in plastic containers while others use cardboard boxes. If you are amongst this lot, there is a good chance that moisture and moth worms will invade your dresses. The best option is a meticulously cleaned suitcase. Line it with acid-free tissues and start piling your outfits. Slip in a cedar block or lavender sachet to deter pests, but be wary of mothballs (which contain deadly insecticides); children and pets are extremely attracted to them and can pick them while you are packing.

Wash your woollies

Wash all your outfits before wrapping them for the season. Food particles and other things such as dead skin, hair, nails, etc. left entangled in clothes can leave tough stains and attract insects. Besides, perfume and deodorant patches mixed with sweat can cause your clothes and container to stink big time. Most of your winter apparels will require one thorough wash and plenty of time to dry, after which you can safely fold them for the time-being. Don’t starch your clothes as they may become feeding grounds for insects.

Stash your suits suitably

The key to long-lasting winter accessories is treating them as precious gifts. Button up the sweaters and fold them neatly in thirds and then in half. Stack the heaviest at the bottom, placing acid-free tissues between the embellished garments to keep them from snagging. You must always hang those heavy leather jackets and fur coats on wooden, thick plastic or padded hangers, as leaving them on flimsy wire hangers all summer long can cause them to become misshapen.

Also, avoid folding coats to prevent heavy creases. Use hangers with clips to drape pants and long skirts. If you own knee-high boots for the purpose of walking in the glorious snow of Skardu or Swat, then take good care of them by stuffing in old newspapers, so they retain their shape. Your smart boots will definitely come handy next snowy season.

Team like items together

Packing similar accessories together will make your life much easier when it’s time to unpack. Keep sweaters, thermals and shawls in one suitcase, while gloves, woollen mufflers and socks can go into the other. Stack them tidily so each item is visible at first glance and you won’t have to go rummaging through piles to look for your favourite shawl when needed. It is always advisable to have a separate suitcase for children’s wear. If you feel your kids will outgrow their winter clothes till the next season, it’s best to give them away. No point in keeping old dresses.

Suitcase storage spaces

Now that you have packed your winter wardrobe, keep the suitcases at a dry and relatively cool place, such as underneath a king-sized bed or in big closets. Attics, basements and garages are bad storage ideas. Keep checking your bags intermittently and brush off any dust that might gather over time.

Packing your winter wardrobe might not sound an easy task, but once you get to it, things will begin flowing smoothly. Rest assured, you will be pleased to find your clothes sparkling the next time you open your suitcases.

Published in Dawn, Sunday Magazine, March 1st, 2015

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