Pack It Away! The Right Way! Winter Gear Storage Secrets!

Winter is (hopefully) on its way out, because we all know this season has been nothing short of unpredictable. 🥴From record-breaking snowstorms in the South to unusually sporadic warm days in the East, Mother Nature has kept us on our toes. As we transition into spring, now is the perfect time to put away those heavy coats, snow boots, and holiday decorations—and do it in a way that keeps everything organized and ready for next winter season. How does that sound???

If you’re tired of digging through piles of winter gear every season, it’s time to implement a seasonal storage system that works. An organized home isn’t just about neat spaces; it’s about creating peace, productivity, and clarity—and that’s exactly what I help my clients are able to achieve when they work with us @ Xtreme Audacity.

So let’s talk about it!!!

Step 1: Sort and Declutter Winter Gear

Before you start packing away coats and boots, take time to assess what you actually need. It’s natural to feel attached to belongings, but asking thought-provoking questions can help.

Ask yourself:

Did I wear this at all this winter? If not, do I really need to keep it?
Does this still fit? For growing kids (and adults!), last year’s winter coat might not work next year.
Is this item still in good condition? Torn gloves, broken zippers, or leaky boots aren’t worth storing.
Would someone else benefit from this more than I do? Consider donating gently used winter items to local shelters.

Decluttering before storing will free up space and make next year’s winter prep so much easier. Less clutter equals less stress!

Step 2: Wash and Prep Items for Storage

Winter gear goes through a lot—snow, salt, mud, and all kinds of weather conditions. The last thing you want is to pull out dirty, musty coats next season.

Wash all coats, scarves, hats, and gloves before storing.
Clean boots thoroughly and apply a leather or fabric protector if needed.
Check and repair any damage (missing buttons, broken zippers, etc.).
Make sure everything is 101% dry before packing to avoid mold and mildew.

Step 3: Use the Right Storage Solutions

Where and how you store your winter gear makes all the difference. Here are my top recommendations:

For Coats and Outerwear:

Use vacuum-sealed bags for bulky coats to save space.
Dedicate a spare closet, under-bed storage or Garage for seasonal outerwear.
Use plastic totes with labels, which creates a sealed barrier against moisture, preventing mold and mildew

For Boots and Shoes:

Use plastic totes with labels, preventing mold and mildew to keep pairs together.
Stuff boots with rolled-up newspapers or pool noodles to maintain their shape.
Store them in a cool, dry place to prevent cracking and mold.

For Accessories (Hats, Gloves, Scarves):

Store in clear bins with labels for easy access.
Separate items by family members or size.

For Snow Gear (Sleds, Skis, Snowboards, etc.):

Use wall-mounted racks or ceiling hooks in your garage or storage area.
Keep small gear in labeled bins to prevent losing important pieces.
Make sure everything is clean and dry before storing to prevent cracking and mold.

Step 4: Label Everything for Next Year

Nothing is more frustrating than having a bunch of storage bins and having no clue what’s inside. Take a few minutes to label your storage bins and bags. You’ll thank yourself next winter!

Consider color-coding or using clear containers to make it even easier.

Step 5: Create a Transition Space for Spring Weather

While winter might be fading, we know that spring can bring unexpected chilly days. Instead of packing everything away completely, designate a small space for:

A light jacket for those in-between days.
A pair of boots for unexpected rain or snow.
A scarf or gloves in case of a late cold snap.

This keeps you prepared without keeping your whole winter wardrobe out.

For winter clothes that remain in your closet, follow the same rotation and zoning strategy to keep your space organized and seasonally efficient. Shift bulky sweaters, heavy jackets, and boots to less accessible areas like a top shelf, the back of the closet, or storage bins on the floor. Maximize space with smart storage solutions such as vacuum-sealed bags, shelf dividers, and over-the-door organizers to keep everything neat without overcrowding. Maintain a small transitional section with a few warm layers within easy reach for unpredictable spring weather, ensuring your closet stays functional and clutter-free.

Final Thoughts

An organized life starts with small, intentional steps—like packing away your winter gear in a way that makes next year easier. By decluttering, cleaning, and storing things properly, you’re setting yourself up for a stress-free transition into spring.

So, let’s welcome the warmer weather with clarity, peace, and productivity—and don’t forget to register for the Organized Life Intensive before time runs out!

What’s your biggest struggle with storing winter gear? Drop a comment below—I’d love to help!

If you haven’t heard, The Organized Life Intensive Workshop is happening soon!

Now that you’re tackling winter gear storage, why not take things a step further? This FREE live workshop is happening on March 31st from 7 - 9 PM—and I’d love for you to join!

In just two hours, I’ll teach you even more practical strategies to create an organized lifestyle that works for you. You’ll walk away with actionable steps to simplify your home, schedule, and mind. REMEMBER… There are only two weeks left to register!

🔗 Sign up now Click Here before spots fill up!

Shop My Favorite Winter Storage Solutions

If you need the right tools to store your winter gear properly, check out these top-rated Amazon finds:

SpaceSaver Premium Vacuum Storage Bags These airtight, waterproof bags are perfect for compressing heavy coats and saving space in your closet or under the bed.
Clear Plastic Storage Bins with Lids These stackable bins keep boots and shoes protected from dust and moisture while making it easy to see what’s inside.

(This post contains affiliate links to Amazon from which I make a small commission with no extra costs added to you.)

Cheers to a successful organizing journey!!

Until Next Time