As temperatures climb across Britain, countless people are delving into the depths of their wardrobes for dresses, skirts and shirts. Yet after these summer clothes have been tucked away for months in cold, dark conditions, mould and musty odours may have begun to develop.
Expert Tips for a Fresh Wardrobe
To help keep your clothing and storage space dry and clean, Melissa Denham, Interior Design Expert at Hammonds Furniture, has recommended five ways to maintain a fresh, clean and stylish wardrobe this season.
Melissa says: "Nobody wants a space filled with damp and mould, which can cause a musty lingering smell on your clothes."
A simple £1 hanging dehumidifier bag, available in most supermarkets, can help absorb excess moisture. Many of these bags come in a variety of scents, such as linen, helping to remove damp and keep your wardrobe smelling fresh.
A pack of two dehumidifier bags from Choice Wholesale currently costs just £1. She adds: "To control humidity levels in your bedroom, try using a dehumidifier. Another easy trick is to open windows regularly allowing fresh air to circulate and preventing condensation buildup."
Deep Clean Your Wardrobe
This is also an ideal opportunity to give your wardrobe a thorough clean. Melissa says: "As we change seasons, it's the perfect time to give your space a deep clean. It may seem a tedious task, but when done correctly, it'll save you future time and effort."
It's important to regularly clean the inside of your wardrobe to prevent damp and mould from building up. Simply wipe down the shelves, hangers and walls with a mild detergent or vinegar solution. Make sure to remove any dust or debris you can see that may attract moisture and cause a musty smell to linger on your clothes.
Use a duster to get rid of any lingering debris, and wipe both the interior and exterior of your wardrobe with a damp cloth and anti-bacterial spray to ensure it's completely clean and fresh in preparation for your autumn and winter attire.
Proper Storage for Winter Clothes
You may also be considering the bold step of packing away your winter warmers. To prevent the same issues occurring with them, it's essential to store them properly.
Melissa says: "An important step is to make sure your clothes are properly washed, dried and folded before storing them back away in your wardrobe."
Hanging dirty clothes can attract pests such as bugs. Make sure to freshen up all your dirty items by washing and drying them thoroughly. You must let your clothes properly dry to minimise the risk of mould and mildew.
A cluttered wardrobe can reduce airflow which can increase the risk of mould growth, so make sure to organise your clothes and accessories to allow for better ventilation.
Reviving Autumn and Winter Staples
Now is also the perfect moment to breathe new life into your autumn and winter staples. Melissa says: "If you notice your jumpers, coats and scarves have lost their shape or picked up a musty scent, make sure to give them a little TLC."
Start by washing or airing them out. Use a fabric shaver to remove pilling from knitwear and brush down wool coats using a lint roller or clothing brush to restore their appearance. If your pieces are creased, a quick once-over with the iron or steamer will freshen them up. If you store your heavier pieces folded, gently refold them to prevent creases from settling.
Seasonal Fragrances for Your Wardrobe
For a touch of everyday indulgence, consider introducing some seasonal summer fragrances to your wardrobe. Melissa says: "From scented sachets and diffusers, to candles and room sprays, there are so many ways to introduce appealing scents to your bedroom. With so many different options readily available in your local shops, I recommend sticking with natural, chemical-free products that aren't too overbearing."
For your summer, scents like lemon, lavender and mint can keep fabrics smelling fresh while also deterring moths. Replace the sachets every couple of months to keep them effective.
