Storing clothes in the cellar – How to do it properly

Need more space at home? Storing clothes in the cellar is a practical way to keep seasonal garments safe and out of the way. But to ensure your clothes stay in good condition over time – especially in a damp cellar – there are a few important things to keep in mind. In this article, we’ll share useful tips for storing clothes in the cellar the right way: odour-free, protected and well organised.

1. Wash and dry clothes thoroughly before storage

Before storing clothes in the cellar, make sure everything is clean and completely dry. Leftover sweat, dirt or detergent can cause unpleasant smells or even mould. Use mild, neutral detergents and avoid heavily perfumed fabric softeners, as these can attract clothes moths. Important: Even the smallest amount of residual moisture can lead to damage during long-term storage, especially in damp conditions.

2. Choose the right storage boxes for cellar use

Good packaging is key to successful clothing storage in the cellar. At Zebrabox, we offer various solutions for storing clothes, such as:

• Wardrobe boxes with integrated hanging rails – perfect for suits, coats or dresses that need to keep their shape.
• Sturdy moving boxes – ideal for folded items like t-shirts, trousers or seasonal clothes that need to be stored compactly.

For extra protection, we recommend airtight or vacuum-sealed garment bags, especially for delicate fabrics. Here you will find our packaging materials.

3. Storing clothes in the cellar: Keep it sorted & labelled

To make life easier, keep your clothes sorted – by season (summer/winter), by type (tops/trousers), or by use (everyday/formal). Clearly label each box. This saves time and keeps your storage neat and tidy.

4. Don’t store clothes directly on the floor

A common mistake is placing boxes directly on the cellar floor. Instead, store your clothing off the ground – on shelves or wooden pallets. This protects against rising damp, improves air circulation and helps prevent bad smells.

5. How to store clothes in a damp cellar

A damp basement is a challenge when it comes to storing clothes. The following measures will help you store clothes without odours or mould:

• Place silica gel sachets inside the boxes
• Store garments in vacuum-sealed bags to keep out moisture and air
• Ventilate the space regularly and occasionally open boxes
• Use breathable fabric covers when air circulation is needed

These tips help you store clothes in a damp cellar without odours. For more information on optimal humidity in enclosed spaces, including at home, read our article Ideal Humidity at your home.

6. Store clothes by season – and keep them accessible

When storing clothes in your cellar, place seasonal items towards the front. That way, they’re easy to access when the weather changes.

7. Can you store clothes in a garage?

Yes, storing clothes in a garage is also possible – but similar precautions apply. Be aware of temperature and humidity changes. Depending on your garage environment, make sure to use sturdy boxes, proper sealing and protection against dust. Ideally, your garage should have low humidity.