Prepare your items first
Decide what you want to keep before packing. Separate anything to repair, give away or sell so it does not spend another season in a box. Store clothing clean and completely dry, following its care label. Choose a dry spot away from direct sunlight; a balcony is not suitable for every material or climate. The aim is to know what you are storing, rather than create a perfect pile.
One box, one purpose
Group items according to how you will retrieve them: winter hats and scarves, ski clothing or children's clothes in one size. You do not need matching containers; they should be easy to carry and open. Avoid a random mixture. If a group needs several boxes, add a number or a more specific description to each name.
Use names you will remember
‘Miscellaneous’ means little six months later. Choose a clear name such as ‘Winter accessories’ and record the exact location: ‘Hallway cupboard, top shelf’. List useful details — a cream scarf, grey gloves and two knitted hats. Use the same name on the physical box and in your list so other people at home can understand it too.
Save what is inside
Photograph items before closing the lid and make a short list. Add colour, size or purpose to similar items. In My Stuff, save photos, names and descriptions, then group items into a virtual box that matches the real one. Attach its QR code where it is easy to scan. Scanning opens the contents; searching by name helps find an individual item. Start with a few items before cataloguing the whole wardrobe.
Update the list when things change
When you remove an item or move it to another box, update its record. At the start of a new season, check what still fits, what has moved and what you no longer need. A useful system answers two questions: ‘Where is this item?’ and ‘What is in this box?’ Try it with one box today.
Your checklist
Tick off the steps you have completed