How to Store Jackets Properly: A Guide to Keeping Your Outerwear in To

How to Store Jackets Properly: A Guide to Keeping Your Outerwear in Top Condition

A high-quality jacket is an investment, and like any valuable item in your wardrobe, it requires proper care to maintain its longevity. Whether it’s a winter coat, a leather jacket, or a lightweight windbreaker, how you store your jackets plays a crucial role in preserving their quality. In this guide, we’ll cover the best practices for storing jackets to ensure they stay in excellent condition season after season.

1. Clean Your Jacket Before Storing

Before you put your jacket away for an extended period, always clean it first. Dirt, sweat, and oils can degrade fabric and cause permanent stains if left untreated. Here’s how to prep your jacket depending on the material:

• Fabric Jackets: Check the care label for washing instructions. Most fabric jackets can be machine-washed or dry-cleaned.
• Leather Jackets: Wipe down the surface with a damp cloth and apply a leather conditioner to keep it supple.
• Down Jackets: Wash according to the label’s instructions and make sure they are completely dry before storing to avoid mold.

By cleaning your jacket before storing, you’ll prevent unwanted smells, stains, and material deterioration.

2. Choose the Right Hanger

Proper hanging is key to keeping your jacket’s shape intact. Always opt for wide, padded hangers that support the shoulders and prevent sagging. Thin wire hangers can distort the jacket’s shape, especially if the jacket is heavy like a winter coat or leather jacket.

For lighter jackets, a regular wooden or plastic hanger can suffice, but for anything bulkier, it’s worth investing in high-quality padded hangers.

3. Store in a Cool, Dry Place

The environment where you store your jacket is just as important as how you store it. Jackets should be stored in a cool, dry place to prevent damage from humidity and heat. Avoid attics or basements where extreme temperatures and moisture can cause mildew, mold, or fabric degradation. Instead, use a well-ventilated closet or a wardrobe to maintain a stable environment.

If possible, keep jackets away from direct sunlight, which can fade colors over time.

4. Use Garment Bags for Protection

To keep your jackets dust-free and protected from any potential damage, store them in breathable garment bags. Avoid using plastic bags, as they can trap moisture, leading to mildew or mold. Instead, opt for cloth or cotton garment bags that allow air to circulate while still protecting your jackets from dirt and dust.

If you don’t have garment bags, you can use a clean cotton sheet or pillowcase as a DIY cover.

5. Avoid Folding Bulky Jackets

Bulky jackets, especially those with padding or insulation, should not be folded for long-term storage. Folding can lead to permanent creases and damage the insulation. Instead, hang them up to retain their shape and structure.

For jackets that must be folded due to limited storage space, make sure to fold them gently along the natural seams and avoid heavy creases. Store them in an airtight container with silica gel packets to absorb any excess moisture.

6. Leather and Suede Care

Leather and suede jackets require special care during storage to maintain their texture and avoid cracking. For leather jackets:

• Use a leather conditioner before storing to keep the material supple.
• Hang them on padded hangers in a cool, dry closet.
• Avoid exposure to extreme temperatures, as leather can crack if it gets too dry or too hot.

For suede jackets, keep them in breathable garment bags to protect against dust and avoid contact with moisture, which can stain or warp the fabric.

7. Rotate Jackets Seasonally

If you have a collection of jackets for different seasons, make it a habit to rotate them. When winter is over, store your heavier coats in a safe place and bring out lighter spring or summer jackets. This seasonal rotation helps keep your closet organized and reduces the wear and tear of jackets being crammed together.

8. Store Down Jackets Correctly

Down jackets are known for their bulkiness and insulation properties, but storing them properly is important to preserve their fluffiness. Never compress or squeeze a down jacket into a tight space, as this can flatten the insulation and reduce its effectiveness. Instead:

• Hang the jacket in a breathable garment bag.
• Ensure it's completely dry before storage to avoid mildew.
• Avoid placing anything heavy on top of it, which can damage the down filling.

9. Use Cedar for Natural Protection

Moths and insects can damage natural fibers like wool or cashmere in jackets. Use cedar blocks, chips, or mothballs to deter insects naturally. Cedar also has the added benefit of a pleasant scent. Be sure to check periodically that your jacket is still insect-free, especially if it’s been in storage for a long time.

10. Maintain Proper Air Circulation

Jackets, especially leather and wool, need air circulation to stay fresh and maintain their texture. Avoid overstuffing your closet, as crowded spaces can trap moisture and lead to odors or mildew. Leave enough space between each jacket so they can "breathe."

Conclusion

Taking the time to store your jackets properly will ensure they remain in excellent condition for years to come. By cleaning them before storing, choosing the right storage environment, and using quality hangers and garment bags, you can protect your investment and keep your outerwear looking fresh and stylish. Follow these tips to maintain your jackets’ shape, structure, and quality—whether it’s a lightweight jacket for spring or a thick, insulated coat for winter. At Jasperfit, we believe every jacket deserves to last through seasons in style!