Master the seasonal wardrobe switchover with these 7 expert tips

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Is your wardrobe more packed than a Central Line tube carriage? Do you have to warm up before attempting to squeeze in an extra hanger? Does your coat rack have more items on it than your average TK Maxx store? If so, you might need to rethink your wardrobe tactics – and the seasonal switchover method could be your friend.

In the past week or so, I’ve noticed loads of fashionable people I follow on Instagram announcing that they are packing away their winter clothes, which is something I have never really done (largely because by the time I get round to it, it’s almost autumn again). However, if you want a space-effective way to manage your wardrobe then packing away bulky outerwear, winter woollies and chunky boots is without doubt the way to go. Here Natalie Prince, storage expert at fitted furniture specialists Sharps, shares her top tips for doing the seasonal switchover well.

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Step 1: Pare down your clothes

Before you start to store your clothes away at the end of a season, decide if there is anything you haven’t worn and no longer want. Whether items are damaged, out of fashion or simply don’t fit, unused pieces take up much-needed space. Recycling, donating or selling unwanted clothes, shoes and accessories will ensure you have space to store exactly what you want.

A good tip if you’re not sure? Hang every item in reverse. Each time you wear a piece, pop the hanger back into the wardrobe the right way around. By September, you'll have a crystal-clear picture of exactly what you reached for this summer - and what's just been taking up prime wardrobe real estate.

Step 2: Wash and dry everything thoroughly

Before packing anything away, ensure all of your clothes are washed and, more importantly, fully dried. Storing damp items can lead to them smelling musty and, in some cases, cause mould to grow, which can ruin your winter wardrobe before next season even begins.

Step 3: Store clothes properly

When packing up your winter wardrobe, resist the temptation to simply squeeze as much as possible into one space. Knitwear should always be folded, never hung, to prevent stretching. Delicate fabrics such as satin, silk, linen and cashmere need to be stored away from anything with sharp hardware, bags or jewellery, which can cause fabrics to snag or get damaged.

Step 4: Use vacuum packs for bulky items

Vacuum storage bags are ideal for storing seasonal items, compressing bulkier clothing and adding an additional layer to protect from dust and moisture. However, avoid keeping clothes in vacuum-packed storage for a long period of time, as any more than six months, the compression can cause items to crease and the shape to become distorted.

Step 5: Label boxes or photograph the contents

If you’re using boxes to store shoes or accessories, label each box or print out photos of the contents to stick it to the box. This creates a handy catalogue of items stored away, making it easier when unpacking or searching for certain items.

Step 6: Line your drawers

If you have a wooden wardrobe or chest of drawers, add drawer liners to protect delicate clothes from snags in the wood on any rough or uneven surfaces.

Step 7: Use mothballs or lavender bags

Protect your clothes from moths with mothballs, but opt for a chemical-free version where possible, and always use gloves when handling them. For a toxic-free alternative, you can use lavender or bay leaves, which will smell wonderful, and act as a natural moth-repellent while keeping things smelling fresh.