Winter in Chicago calls for heavy coats, thick sweaters and insulated boots, but finding space to store all those bulky items can be a challenge — especially in an apartment.
Maximizing your storage efficiently can help keep your home organized and clutter-free while ensuring your winter gear stays in good condition for this winter season and the seasons to come! Here are some practical solutions for storing bulky winter clothes in your Chicago apartment.
10 ways to store winter clothes in an apartment
Use vacuum-sealed bags for space-saving storage
One of the most effective ways to reduce the volume of bulky winter items is by using vacuum-sealed storage bags, which remove excess air and shrink items like puffy coats and thick blankets into compact, stackable packages. Store them under your bed, in the back of a closet or on a high shelf to keep them out of the way until winter rolls around again!
Invest in under-bed storage bins
Under-bed storage is a great way to take advantage of unused space in your apartment.
Look for rolling storage bins or flat, zippered fabric containers to keep sweaters, scarves and other winter accessories neatly tucked away. Clear bins make it easy to see what’s inside, while fabric bins with lids provide extra protection from dust and moisture.
Utilize vertical space with hanging organizers
When closet space is limited, vertical storage can be a game-changer!
Hanging organizers with shelves or compartments can store folded sweaters, winter hats and gloves without taking up precious drawer space. Also, consider using space-saving vacuum-sealed hanging bags for coats, which help preserve their shape while minimizing the room they occupy.
Store seasonal items in suitcases
If you have luggage that sits unused most of the year, put it to work as extra storage! Pack your winter clothes into suitcases and stash them in a closet or under your bed — this will keep your belongings contained and make it easy to transport when needed.
Use stackable storage bins for easy access
Stackable plastic storage bins are an excellent option for keeping winter clothes organized and protected. Label each bin so you can easily locate specific items when needed, and opt for bins with secure lids to keep out dust and pests, especially if you plan to store them in a basement or storage unit.
Declutter and donate unworn winter clothing
Before packing everything away, take the opportunity to declutter your items. If you haven’t worn a winter coat or sweater in years, consider donating it to a local Chicago charity or shelter. Organizations such as The Night Ministry and Chicago Cares accept gently used winter clothing to help those in need.
Rotate clothing with a seasonal wardrobe swap
A seasonal wardrobe rotation can help free up space in your closet. Store winter clothes in a designated area and swap them out with your warm-weather wardrobe as the seasons change. This keeps your closet uncluttered and ensures you only have what you need on hand.
Consider off-site storage for extra-large items
For those with minimal storage space, renting a small storage unit can be a great solution for keeping bulky winter gear out of the way during the warmer months. Many Chicago storage facilities offer climate-controlled units to help protect delicate fabrics and down-filled coats from humidity and temperature fluctuations. Some apartment communities also offer rentable storage spaces, so keep an eye out for those, too!
Where to buy storage solutions in Chicago
If you need organizational tools to maximize your space, there are plenty of great places in Chicago to find storage solutions. Stores like The Container Store offer a wide range of bins, vacuum-sealed bags and closet organizers to help streamline your apartment storage. IKEA Chicago is another excellent option for stylish and functional storage furniture, including under-bed storage solutions and modular shelving. For budget-friendly options, Target and Home Depot carry a variety of storage containers, garment racks and space-saving closet systems that are perfect for apartment living.
Keep your apartment organized year-round
Storing bulky winter clothes in a small space doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With smart storage solutions like vacuum-sealed bags, under-bed bins and hanging organizers, you can keep your apartment neat while preserving your cold-weather essentials. If you’re looking for a home that offers ample storage options and modern amenities, consider checking out our luxury Chicago apartments designed for comfortable city living, no matter the weather!
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Featured photo by Dan Gold on Unsplash
Second photo by Andrew George on Unsplash
Third photo by Markus Spiske on Unsplash
Colleen Ford is a South African who now lives on Oahu in Hawai'i. She loves to travel, camp, spearfish and hike. She's also part of a super cool canoe club and is pretty decent at it. Colleen enjoys Star Wars and also not being cold ever.
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