March 20, 2017

3 Steps to a Seamless Wardrobe Changeover

Spring is in the air. And while we're thrilled to trade in winter woolens for breezy blouses, the prospect of actually changing over our closets makes us want to run for the green covered hills...

But alas our clothes aren't going to move themselves so here are 3 simple steps to completing the wardrobe changeover lickety-split.

The key to a smooth closet transition is moving items into hibernation in a ready-to-wear state. This means cleaning & curating, gleening, and properly storing all out of season clothes and accessories. This will give you the space you need now to enjoy your spring wardrobe and the ability later to wear your clothes fresh out of storage. Sold? So are we; let's dive in.

Supplies

Gleener Ultimate Fuzz Remover or Gleener On the Go
Lidded storage bins (clear plastic or fabric with windows)
Garment bag & hangers
Lavender sachets or cedar blocks

1. Clean & Curate

Wash or dry clean previously worn clothing before sending it into storage. The reason is three-fold: to prevent stains, odors and pests (like moths) from settling in.

This is also the time to curate your closet. If you don't love it or haven't worn it in a year but the article is in good condition, donate it. For items that need to be mended, altered or otherwise restored, bring them to the cleaners as part of your spring cleaning haul. If an item is unsalvageable, now's the time to toss it; make space for the stuff you truly love.

2. Gleen

After a season of wear, fabric pills (aka fuzz balls) are a likely but unwelcome wardrobe visitor. Use the Gleener Ultimate Fuzz Remover, a 2-in-1 fabric shaver and lint brush, to depill, de-lint and de-fur your clothes before packing them away. This gentle (but oh-so-effective) depiller will make your most-loved garments look and feel like new -- ready for your enjoyment next fall.

Not sure what can be 'gleened'? Virtually any fabric is a contender, from acrylic and fleece to fine cashmere and merino -- even treasured hand knits. See our before & after photos for ideas or consult our FAQ to see if we can solve your particular pilling problem.

3. Store

Proper storage is the final step to retiring your winter wardrobe. Clothes need to breathe while also being protected from dust, critters and the elements. Choose a space in your home that's dry and away from sunlight or direct sources of heat. If you have a cedar chest or closet, use it. If not, create your own safe storage environment by following the tips below.

For knits, which should be folded (never hung or you'll get hanger bumps), opt for clear plastic storage bins or windowed fabric ones. Why windows? So you can see what's stashed where. Lids are a must for protection and easy stacking.

Woven garments are best stored on hangers in a sealed garment bag.

For additional pest protection, stuff your stuff with natural moth deterrents like cedar blocks or lavender sachets. They have the added bonus of making your clothes smell divine once they're ready to be unboxed.