How to Store Sweaters, According to an Expert

With temperatures on the rise, it’s safe to say we’re ready to start shedding those heavier layers and opting for something on the lighter side. After spending months bundled up in our favorite knitwear to fight the cold, we’re relishing the feeling of warm sunlight on our bare skin. And now that we’ve started reaching for that light denim jacket instead of those chunky knits, knowing how to properly store our favorite sweaters is a must.

Storing our sweaters neatly (and safely!) will give us peace of mind knowing they’ll remain in their top condition until we pull them out for the next snowfall. Until then, we asked New York–based organizer Tova Weinstock of Tidy Tova for her best advice on how to keep our favorite wool and cashmere sweaters organized and away from any pests while we spend our days in your tees and skirts, basking in the sunlight. See what she has to say; then shop our favorite sweaters on the market to wear before the weather gets too warm.

Toss Sweaters You Don’t Use

Before you start, Weinstock advises getting rid of any sweaters you don’t wear, cutting down your wardrobe and saving space. If you haven’t worn it in over a year, more likely than not you won’t wear it any time soon. Plus, you’ll have more room for those shopping sprees we all indulge in every once in a while.

Clean Everything

Properly clean everything before you put it into storage. “Make a big trip to the dry cleaners, since most will get ruined in the machine,” she says. This will make it easier on you when you finally pull them back out and want to wear them right away.

Organize by Type

When you start organizing, be sure to organize each of your sweaters by type, such as wool, cashmere, and alpaca. “Wool sweaters can be stored in airtight bins, but try not to stuff them too tightly so they can properly breathe,” she explains. “Store cashmere sweaters in canvas storage bags so they have extra breathing room and airflow.”

Keep Moths Away with Lavender or Cedar

Weinstock also mentions throwing in a lavender sachet or cedar block to ward off moths. While they’re in storage, you’ll feel confident knowing that your sweaters will stay safe from holes.

Shop Chic Sweaters

Before it gets too hot, wear these sweaters during the spring on the cooler days. Then, once you put them into storage, they’ll be set until the next season.