Clothing in storage fails in three ways, and two of them are specific to the material.
What actually destroys it
Insects, in wool and anything with natural fibre. Moth damage appears as small holes, usually where the garment was dirty.
Humidity, which mildews cotton and linen and leaves the storage smell that costs a sale later.
Hanger distortion, which puts a permanent bump in the shoulders of knitwear.
Light, which fades dark cotton unevenly.
What to do instead
- Clean before storing. Insects are attracted to soiling, so a garment put away dirty is the one that gets eaten.
- Knitwear folded, never hung. Structured jackets and coats on broad hangers.
- Cotton garment bags rather than plastic — natural fibres need to breathe, which is the opposite of the transit advice, and correct for the same reason.
- Cedar, neem or cloves rather than naphthalene against the cloth.
- Air the cupboard, especially after the monsoon.
Leather and suede
Air, not plastic. A little space around them, never compressed between other garments, and out of damp.
What it costs
Cotton bags, a deterrent, and the discipline of washing before putting away.
Questions people ask
Does dry-cleaning before storage help?
Yes for wool and tailoring, because it removes what attracts insects. Air it before storing to lose the solvent smell.
Is vacuum packing good for long storage?
Not for natural fibres. It compresses them and holds moisture in.
How often should I check?
Twice a year, and always after the monsoon.
More: describing menswear, common mistakes.