Storing Outerwear Between Seasons – How to Do It

Put outerwear away clean – the most important rule

How outerwear is stored decides what condition it is in when you take it out again. The single rule that matters most is to store the garments clean. Sweat, body oils and food traces on a garment are exactly what moth larvae are drawn to, and a stain left for a whole season sets and becomes harder to remove. Salt and dirt also break down the outer fabric and the durable water-repellent (DWR) finish. So clean off the season's dirt before storage, not after.

Clean by garment type before storing

Different outerwear needs different preparation – don't treat it all the same:

• Shell jacket and trousers: wash with a technical cleaner made for shell garments, never fabric softener. Re-proof only if the drop test fails, so the garment is ready for next season.
• Down jacket: wash to restore loft, and dry it fully with a few dryer balls. Down stored damp or compressed loses its insulating power.
• Wool coat: air and brush it, spot-clean a fresh mark, and give it a proper clean before storage if it needs one – clean wool doesn't tempt moths.
• Waxed cotton: wipe off dirt and let the garment dry completely; never store it damp, or it can grow mildew.

Store loose – don't press outerwear flat

This is the point that sets outerwear apart from ordinary wardrobe storage: insulation and shape are ruined by being crushed. Vacuum bags and tight plastic bags do exactly that – and trap moisture at the same time. Give the garments space and air.

• Avoid vacuum bags for down and wool: they crush the loft flat, and it is the loft that insulates.
• Hang structured coats and jackets on wide, padded hangers that support the shoulders – never thin wire hangers.
• Fold heavy knits and cardigans rather than hanging them, so they don't stretch out of shape.
• Use a breathable cover in cotton or linen, never plastic or dry-cleaner film, which traps moisture and can yellow the fabric.

Cool, dark, dry – and protected from moths

The spot itself matters a lot. Wool and down are best kept steadily cool, dark and dry, and worst in a warm, damp attic room with temperature swings. Wool, cashmere and wool blends are also moth food, so wool outerwear needs an extra layer of protection.

1. Find a stable, cool and dark spot – avoid attics and damp basements.
2. Put cedar or lavender in the storage to deter moths, and refresh the scent as it fades.
3. Take the garments out now and then, air them and look for small holes or webbing in seams and folds.
4. If you suspect moths: seal the garment in a bag and deep-freeze it for a few days to kill eggs and larvae.

Empty the pockets and close up before the closet shuts

A few steps right before storage extend the garment's life and make it ready to wear the moment next season comes:

• Empty all pockets – forgotten receipts, mints and coins can stain the lining.
• Close zips and hook-and-loop fastenings, so they don't catch on other garments or pull the fabric out of shape.
• Loosen tight cords and straps, so the elastic isn't left stretched for a whole season.
• Check that the garment is completely dry – the most common cause of mildew is putting away a slightly damp garment.

When should outerwear be prepared by professionals?

Much of this you do easily yourself. But if the down jacket needs a wash that brings the loft back, the wool coat should be gently cleaned before it lies for a long time, you are unsure whether the shell can take washing and fresh proofing, or the run-through turns up a repair – a zip, a seam, a tear – you can send the garments to us from anywhere in Norway. We clean, re-proof and repair by garment and care label, so the outerwear is put away in the best possible condition and ready for next season. You order online, and you see the price before you order.

Frequently asked questions