Can You Store Clothes in a Storage Unit? (2026 Guide)

The easy answer

Yes, you can store clothes in a storage unit.But clothing is highly sensitive to moisture, temperature, and pests, so how you store it makes a big difference.Clothes stored improperly can come out with odors, mold, or damage and even if they looked fine going in.

Why clothes are easy to damage in storage

Clothing materials can absorb:• Moisture
• Odors
• Dust
• Mildew
This is especially true for fabrics like cotton, wool, and blends, which can trap humidity and develop mold if conditions are not stable.

How to store clothes properly

Before putting clothes into storage, take these steps:• Wash and fully dry all clothing• Avoid storing dirty items• Use breathable containers (not sealed plastic bags)• Fold or hang items properly• Use garment bags for delicate Items• Keep items off the groundThese steps help prevent odor buildup and moisture damage over time.

Should you use climate-controlled storage for clothes?

In many cases, yes.Climate-controlled storage helps protect clothing from:• Humidity
• Extreme heat
• Temperature swings
This is especially important for:• Long-term storage
• Expensive clothing
• Seasonal wardrobes
• Delicate fabrics

What NOT to do

Avoid these common mistakes:• Storing clothes while damp• Sealing clothes in airtight plastic bags• Leaving items directly on the floor• Overpacking boxes with no airflow• Storing in high-humidity environments

Best containers for clothing storage

Good options include:• Plastic bins with loose lids• Fabric storage bags• Wardrobe boxes• Garment racks (in larger units)The goal is to protect from dust while still allowing some airflow.

Do you need a large storage unit for clothes?

Clothes alone usually don’t require a large unit.Most clothing can fit into a small unit unless combined with furniture or other items.The real size depends on:• How many boxes or bins you have• Whether items are hanging or folded• What else is being stored

What storing clothes usually costs

Clothes themselves do not increase rent, but they often push renters toward climate-controlled units.That means total cost depends on:• Unit size• Climate control• Location• Fees and insurance• Future price increases

Helpful tools and guides

If you are not sure what size storage unit you need, start with the size finder.

If you want to estimate the real monthly cost of a storage unit, use the calculator.

These related guides may also help.

If you want help comparing real storage options

If you want help comparing storage facilities based on long-term pricing behavior, hidden fees, and overall risk, visit Storage Scout.