How to Store Knitwear
Here in Atlanta, the cool weather lasted a little longer than usual but it is finally time to store sweaters, scarves, and warm knits of any kind.
The main goal is to prevent moths and any other damage so you have your knits for a long time.
I’ve broken the list down into “must do” and “should do” along with links to the tools if you want to DIY. Clients may contact us for this annual service.
Tools you’ll need:
Moth prevention: Traps, Sachet, Cedar bars
| Step | Priority | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Sort | Optional | Remove anything that no longer fits, is damaged, or is not worth storing. |
| Clean | Must do | Body oils, fragrance, deodorant, and food residue attract moths. |
| De-pill | Optional | Keeps sweaters ready to wear when cooler weather returns. |
| Repair | Optional | Small holes, loose buttons, and stretched cuffs are easier to fix early. |
| Fold | Must do | Hanging can stretch shoulders and distort the shape. |
| Pack by fiber | Recommended | Cashmere, wool, cotton, and heavier knits store better when grouped separately. |
| Protect from moths | Must do | Use cedar, lavender, or moth-prevention packets, especially for wool and cashmere. |
| Store properly | Must do | Keep sweaters cool, dry, dark, and climate-controlled. |
| Label everything | Recommended | Makes fall unpacking easier and prevents unnecessary searching. |
A couple of notes:
You MUST clean prior to storing, even if you only wore it once. Bugs are attracted to oils and debris that might be invisible to you.
Do NOT use an electric de-piller. Use an emery board per Audie at Anderson & Sheppard.
Store in a breathable bag for single season. Only use the vacuum seal bags for extended care. I don’t really care for the way those bags crush the fibers.