How to Store Winter Clothes in a Small Space (Step-by-Step)

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We all have a different ways of making the transition to winter.

Whether it’s staying bed juuuust a little bit longer because it’s cold, wearing slippers and Ugg boots around your house, and drinking so much more tea and hot chocolate that you exhaust your mug supply, some changes are just necessary when winter hits.

And one of those necessary changes is your clothes. Cotton sweaters and socks that were somewhat sufficient for fall leaves you shivering when the temperature drops. Woolen scarves, merino thermals, and goose down jackets become a necessity, not to mention your flannel pajamas. And while winter clothes are good for keeping you warm, they can be a pain in the butt to store if your space is somewhat limited.

In this article, we’ll explore some practical tips and storage ideas to help you effectively store your winter clothes without taking up too much room.

Shelving unit with folded sweaters near light curtain, closeup

Step 1: Evaluate Your Space

When it comes to storing bulky things in a small space, you should start with figuring out what spaces you actually have available.

Find Hidden Storage Spots

Look around your living space and watch for any areas that could serve as extra storage for your winter wardrobe.

Can you utilize any unused areas under the bed or at the top of a closet?

Be creative and think about transforming these spots into functional storage spaces.

Hanging cubbies are one example of a storage solution that can easily fit in your existing closet and provide additional space for winter hats, gloves, and scarves. Here’s an example.

GRANNY SAYS Hanging Closet Organizer and Storage, 6 Shelf Clothes Organization with Drawers, 6 Side Pockets Closet Hanging Shelves for Bras, Socks, Underwear, Nursery Room, Wardrobe, White, 1-Pack

Related: Learn how to store comforters in a small space.

Maximize Closet Potential

Once you’ve identified the hidden storage spots within your space, it’s time to takev your closet potential.

Instead of merely piling clothes on top of one another, try to organize them to make them more accessible and easy to locate.

Consider using open shelves or racks to store folded winter clothes without occupying too much room.

Include additional hooks, boxes, or hangers to store shoes and accessories effectively. Try pegs if you have heavy boots to store. Here’s a great example of a shoe organizer that you can store in your closet.

Boot Butler Boot Rack – As Seen On Rachael Ray – Clean Up Your Closet Floor with Hanging Boot Storage – Easy to Assemble & Built to Last – 5-Pair Boot Hanger Boot Organizer & Boot Shaper/Tree

Step 2: Choose the Right Storage Solutions

Selecting the appropriate storage solutions is essential when storing winter clothes in a small space.

In this section, we’ll discuss various storage options, such as vacuum-sealed bags, storage bins, and under the bed storage.

Vacuum-Sealed Bags

These bags are fantastic for saving space and protecting your clothes.

Vacuum-sealed bags allow you to compress your clothing, making it easier to store in closets, under beds, or any small space available.

Some benefits of vacuum-sealed bags include:

  • Reducing the volume of your clothes
  • Protecting items from pests and moisture
  • Keeping clothes fresh and odor-free

Here’s a waterproof option that you can use to store not only your clothes, but also comforters, pillows, or bedding that you’re not currently using.

SUOCO Vacuum Storage Bags (8 Jumbo), Space Saver Bags for Clothes, Bedding, Pillows, Comforters, Blankets Storage, Vacuum Sealer Compression Airtight Bags with Travel Hand Pump

Storage Bins

Plastic storage bins with secure lids are an excellent choice for organizing your winter clothing. They offer a convenient, space-saving option and you can store them in corners or closets.

Make sure to opt for airtight bins to prevent pests and moisture from damaging your garments.

Consider the following tips when using storage bins:

  • Use clear bins to quickly identify the contents
  • Label each container according to the type of clothing
  • Don’t overstuff bins, as this can cause wrinkling

Here’s a stackable and collapsible option you might want to consider.

HAIXIN Closet Organizers and Storage 47.5Qt Black Folding Stackable Storage Bins with Lids, Plastic Collapsible Storage Containers, Trunk Car Organizer for Home, Office, Dorm Room Essentials- 4 Pack

Under-Bed Storage

If you’re in a tight space, utilizing under-bed storage could be a lifesaver. Purchase low-profile storage containers to slide under your bed or invest in a bed frame with built-in storage. This solution is perfect for keeping winter clothes out of sight yet accessible at the same time.

Allewie Upholstered Queen Size Platform Bed Frame with 4 Storage Drawers and Headboard, Square Stitched Button Tufted, Mattress Foundation with Wooden Slats Support, No Box Spring Needed, Light Grey

Remember these pointers while using under-bed storage:

  • Ensure the containers are of the right height and width to fit under your bed
  • Opt for containers with wheels for easy access (like the option below)
  • Keep your most frequently used winter items closest to the edge for convenience

Under Bed Storage with Wheels and Lids, Rolling Underbed Storage Containers, Metal Under the Bed Shoe Storage Organizer with Bag Cover (2 Pack Black)

Step 3: Organize Clothing Properly

Sort by Type and Size

Before storing your winter clothes, start by sorting them into categories based on their type and size.

For example, separate heavy jackets from lighter sweaters, and long coats from shorter ones. This will help you identify the best storage solution for each item, as well as optimize the space available in your storage area.

Here are some simple steps to follow:

  1. Create piles of similar items, like jackets, sweaters, scarves, and hats.
  2. Further subdivide these piles based on size and weight.
  3. Use labels or markers to keep track of each category.

Fold Clothes Efficiently

Folding your winter clothes properly can save a lot of space which can make storing more items in your limited storage area possible.

You may use plastic bins to store non-delicate items, like jeans and sweatshirts. Place the heaviest items at the bottom of the bin and neatly fold lighter items, like shirts and skirts, on top.

IRIS USA 6 Pack 12qt Plastic Storage Bin with Lid and Secure Latching Buckles, Pearl

Here are some folding tips for efficient storage:

  • Fold items neatly and uniformly, minimizing wrinkles.
  • Use the “rolling” technique for thinner items like tights and leggings to save space.
  • Consider using space-saving vacuum bags for bulky items like jackets and heavy sweaters.

By sorting your winter clothes by type and size and folding them efficiently, you can make the most of the available storage space in your small living area.

Remember to store your winter clothes in a cool, dry and dark space to preserve their quality.

Step 4: Keep Winter Clothes Fresh and Protected

Clean Before Storing

Before putting away your winter clothes, make sure to clean them properly. Washing or dry cleaning your coats, sweaters, and other items will help prevent stains and deter pests from feasting on your garments.

Fold and pack your clean clothes into plastic or cotton storage bins without overstuffing them to prevent wrinkles.

Use Sachets and Cedar Balls

To keep your winter clothes smelling fresh and protected, consider using sachets and cedar balls.

Homode Cedar Blocks for Clothes Storage, Ceder Wood Chips and Balls for Closets and Drawers, Fresh Scented Sachets, 40 Pack

  • Sachets: Fill small fabric pouches with dried lavender or another scented herb, and place them in storage containers. The pleasant scent will keep your clothes smelling fresh while repelling insects.
  • Cedar balls: These natural insect repellents can be found easily in home stores or online. Scatter cedar balls or blocks in your storage bins to prevent moth infestations and add a pleasant aroma. Cedar balls also absorb moisture from the air, helping to maintain a fresh and dry storage environment.

Following these simple tips ensures that your winter clothes stay in great condition, even in a small storage space.

Step 5: Label and Categorize Storage Containers

When storing your winter clothes in a small space, you’ll want to label and categorize your storage containers. This will help you quickly locate your clothes when you need them, and it’ll also make the process of organizing your clothes more efficient.

Begin by sorting your winter clothes according to their type. You can break them down into categories such as:

  • Jackets and coats
  • Sweaters
  • Pants
  • Accessories (scarves, hats, gloves, etc.)

Once you’ve categorized your clothes, you can start placing them in storage containers.

To optimize space, fold your clothes neatly and arrange them in containers, keeping similar items together. For example, stack all your sweaters in one container and keep your jackets in another.

After you’ve placed your clothes in their respective containers, make sure to label them in a way that’s easy to read. Write down the category name on each label and stick them to the outside of the storage containers.

By labeling and categorizing your storage containers, you’ll have a more efficient system in place for storing and accessing your winter clothes in a small space.

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