How to Store Suits and Formal Wear During Houston Summer

Houston summers bring months of extreme heat and high humidity -- a combination that is particularly harsh on stored clothing. Improper storage can lead to fabric damage, musty odors, moth infestations, and permanent creasing. Here is how to protect your investment.

Clean Before You Store

Never store dirty clothes. Body oils, perspiration, and food residues attract moths, cause fabric deterioration, and set stains that may never come out. In Houston's humid climate, organic residues also accelerate mold and mildew growth. Before any garment goes into storage, have it professionally cleaned.

Dry Clean First

For suits, blazers, formal wear, and any dry-clean-only garments, use a professional cleaner before storage. River Oaks Cleaners offers moth-proofing treatment during cleaning, preservation boxing for wedding gowns and delicate formal wear, and seasonal storage in our climate-controlled facility.

Choose the Right Storage Location

Avoid Houston attics (temperatures reach 130+ degrees), garages (humidity and pests), and non-climate-controlled storage units. Best choice: a climate-controlled interior closet inside your home.

Proper Storage Techniques

Use wooden or padded hangers -- never wire
Use breathable cotton garment bags -- never plastic dry cleaning bags
Do not overcrowd -- garments need air circulation
Use cedar blocks, silica gel packets, or lavender sachets to deter pests and moisture
Avoid mothballs -- the smell is nearly impossible to remove from fabric

When Fall Arrives

Before wearing stored garments, inspect for stains, moth damage, and odors. Air garments for 24 hours and steam or press if needed. Bring any issues to River Oaks Cleaners before wearing.

Ready to Store Your Summer Wardrobe?

Schedule a free pickup at riveroakscleaners.com and let us clean your suits and formal wear before storage. River Oaks Cleaners -- 9 Houston locations, trusted since 1989.

How to Store Suits and Formal Wear During Houston Summer