8 Seasonal Items You Should Always Clean Before Storing

Clothing And Outerwear

“Winter gear, such as jackets, hats, and gloves, can get pretty dirty after a season of use,” says Rose Pulver, pro organizer and co-founder of The Thoughtful Home. “Gently washing these items before storing will increase their lifespan and ensure they are ready for the next season.”

But before you get packing, Heidi Gensler Lang, pro organizer and owner of Juniper Organizing, advises checking that all of your gear is fully dry first. “Sweat, dirt, and moisture can lead to musty odors or mildew over time, so washing and fully drying [your items] before storage ensures they stay fresh and ready for next season,” she says.

Seasonal Linens

Whether it’s those fabric placemats you only use for Thanksgiving or those Easter hand towels for your powder room—be sure to throw them in the washing machine or send them to the dry cleaner before storing so you’ll be good to go next year. “Cleaning and ironing seasonal linens like tablecloths, towels, and bed linens utilized for specific holidays or seasons is advised,” says Maria Anderson, cleaning and organizing expert at Henfield Storage. “This wards off fabric bugs and prevents permanent stains.”

Holiday Decor

While we’re on the topic of holidays, keep in mind that holiday décor should also be cleaned before it goes back into storage. “Holiday decorations’ dust and cobwebs may attract bugs,” says Anderson. “Ensure that these items are dry and clean with a damp cloth before putting them in sealed containers with visible labels.”

This will also help you stay more organized and ready to go when it’s time to decorate again.

Sports Equipment

Not using your ski gear during the off-season? Make sure to give it a good clean before stowing it. “Sweat and bacteria are often present on sports and safety equipment like gloves, pads, and helmets,” Anderson says. “To prevent odor and material degradation during off-season storage, wash or sanitize items thoroughly. For long-term protection, consider using antimicrobial sprays.”

Cleaning Equipment

Whether it’s a mop with a reusable mop head that you’re putting back into your utility closet or one of those fancy upholstery cleaners you only take out when you spill red wine on the sofa, it’s crucial to clean off your cleaning equipment before putting it back in the supply closet. “In order to prevent mold and mildew, ensure that items such as steam cleaners and carpet cleaners are drained, washed, and dried prior to their storage,” says Anderson.

Outdoor Essentials

Storing dirty items like coolers, rugs, or camping equipment can cause all sorts of problems you probably don’t want to deal with. “One of the most important things to clean before storing seasonal items is anything made of fabric—especially if it’s been exposed to moisture,” explains Lang. “Patio cushions, outdoor rugs, and even seasonal linens can trap dirt and bacteria, and if they’re put away damp, they can develop mold or mildew while in storage. Sand, pollen, and dirt can build up over time, and small critters or bugs can hide in stored items if they aren’t properly cleaned.”

Grills

If you’re putting away your grill during the colder months when you don’t use it or need to store it because you’re going on vacation, it’s important to really clean these items unless you want to attract some unwanted guests. “Objects like grills and smokers tend to amass grease and food particles, which can attract pests and result in the deterioration of the item if not taken care of and cleaned properly,” says Anderson. “Make sure that they are cleaned and degreased properly and that the internal components are thoroughly brushed and washed. Alongside this, safeguard them with weatherproof covers or store them indoors.”

Storage Containers

Before you put anything in a storage container, you might need to clean the container itself. “Cleaning the storage bins or containers is just as important, as they can accumulate dust and dirt over time,” explains Shantae Duckworth, professional organizer and founder of Shantaeize Your Space.