Dickinson, ND residents storing clothing face some of the most demanding conditions in the country — sub-zero winters that dry natural fibers to brittleness and spring humidity increases that create mildew risks in clothing that was stored through the cold dry season.
Dickinson's climate creates clothing storage challenges that residents in more moderate climates never encounter. The extremely dry air of a North Dakota winter — often below 20% relative humidity — pulls moisture from natural fibers at a rate that causes wool cashmere and cotton to become noticeably brittle and lose their softness over an extended storage period. Sub-zero temperatures cause elastic components in sportswear and undergarments to lose their stretch permanently. Synthetic fabrics can develop cold-related stress that affects their drape and recovery. Spring brings the opposite problem — rapid humidity increases after months of extreme dryness create condensation risks in clothing stored in environments that are rapidly transitioning between temperature extremes. Proper preparation and climate-controlled storage at Storage Unit of Dickinson address all of these risks and ensure every garment comes out of storage in the same condition it went in.
The most important step in clothing storage preparation — and the most commonly skipped — is washing or dry cleaning every garment before it goes into storage. This is non-negotiable regardless of climate but is particularly important in North Dakota where clothing often goes into storage for months at a time through an entire season. Body oils sweat residue and food particles left on fabric during wear are often invisible — but they oxidize over time in storage into permanent yellow staining that cannot be removed after it has set into the fiber. A wool sweater that looks clean when you pack it away in October can come out of storage in March permanently stained and unusable if it was not properly laundered before storing. Wash or dry clean every garment. Dry completely — this is especially important in North Dakota where garments that seem dry can release moisture in a different humidity environment. And choose a climate-controlled unit at Storage Unit of Dickinson — call (701) 690-5512 to get set up today.
Wool sweaters coats and outerwear: North Dakota's extreme dry winters make proper cleaning before storage especially critical — moths specifically target the body oils in unwashed wool. Dry clean heavy coats. Hand wash or dry clean sweaters. Fold — never hang — to prevent shoulder stretching during long storage periods. Cedar blocks or lavender sachets in every container. Store in breathable bags or acid-free boxes in a climate-controlled unit. Insulated parkas and technical outerwear: These represent some of the most significant clothing investments North Dakota residents make given the climate requirements. Launder or dry clean according to manufacturer instructions before storage. Store hanging in breathable garment bags on padded hangers in a climate-controlled unit. Check all zippers pulls and fastenings before storing. Cashmere: Never machine wash cashmere that is going into long-term storage — hand wash gently or dry clean. Fold rather than hang. Cedar blocks are essential. Store in breathable bags with acid-free tissue paper. Leather coats and suede: Condition thoroughly before long-term storage. North Dakota's extreme dry winters are particularly hard on leather — moisture leaves leather rapidly in sub-zero dry conditions causing stiffening and cracking. Climate-controlled storage with stable humidity is essential for any leather or suede garment being stored through a North Dakota winter. Athletic and performance wear: Machine wash and dry completely. Synthetic technical fabrics handle North Dakota winters better than natural fibers but spring humidity transitions still create some risk. Climate-controlled storage is recommended for extended storage periods.
Container choice matters significantly for clothing stored through North Dakota's extreme seasons. Breathable cotton garment bags: The best choice for most clothing including everyday wear and seasonal items. Breathable cotton allows the slow air exchange that prevents moisture accumulation in both North Dakota's dry winter conditions and spring humidity increases. Acid-free boxes with tissue paper: The right choice for any garment of significant value — heirloom pieces wedding dresses vintage clothing and specialty garments. Acid-free materials prevent the fiber degradation and yellowing that regular cardboard and plastic cause over extended storage periods. Sealed plastic bins: Avoid for long-term clothing storage in Dickinson's climate. While sealed plastic prevents moisture from getting in during humid periods it also traps any residual moisture inside and prevents the slow air exchange that natural fibers need to maintain their character over long storage periods.
Storage Unit of Dickinson offers clean, secure, and climate-controlled storage in Dickinson, ND — the right environment for long-term clothing storage through North Dakota's most demanding seasons. Call (701) 690-5512 today to find the right unit for your wardrobe and protect your clothing investment through every Dickinson winter and beyond.