You return home from a nice, relaxing holiday… realising that you then need to unpack, catch up on work, catch up on house stuff and laundry… It’s stressful – it makes you want to take a holiday to recover from your holiday! So, we get it: once you’re unpacked and get back into the routine of regular non-holiday life, you might want to hide the suitcases away until the next time you need them.

But taking a few quick steps before you do that can really help you and set you up ready for next time. So, here’s our five tips for storing suitcases…

1. Clean and air out your suitcase properly

Suitcases are essential for holidays – but when you’re not travelling, they can quickly become bulky and awkward to store. Before putting them away, it’s important to clean and air them out properly to keep them in good condition. Start by emptying the case completely and removing any old labels, dust or debris. Wipe down both the interior and exterior, then leave it open for a few hours to allow any trapped moisture or odours to escape. This simple step helps prevent musty smells and ensures your suitcase is fresh and ready for your next trip.

2. Make use of the storage space inside

Rather than leaving your suitcase empty, it makes sense to use the space inside it. Suitcases are ideal for storing items you don’t need every day, such as seasonal clothes, spare bedding or travel accessories. By doing this, you free up space elsewhere in your home while also keeping everything travel-related in one place. When it comes time to pack again, you’ll already have a head start.

3. Save space by nesting or stacking

If you have multiple suitcases, storing them efficiently can make a big difference. Smaller cases can often be nested inside larger ones to reduce the amount of space they take up. If nesting isn’t possible, stacking them neatly can work just as well, as long as they’re dry and not overloaded with heavy items that could damage their shape over time. Keeping everything contained and organised will make your storage space feel much more manageable.

4. Choose a suitable place to store them

Where you store your suitcases is just as important as how you store them. They should be kept in a clean, dry and accessible place, such as a wardrobe shelf, spare cupboard, or under a bed. It’s best to avoid garages, basements or lofts, where damp conditions or temperature changes could cause damage. A stable environment will help protect both the suitcase and anything stored inside it.

5. Keep them fresh during long-term storage

If your suitcases are going to be stored for a longer period, a few extra steps can help keep them in good condition. Covering them with a breathable fabric will protect against dust, while leaving zips slightly open allows air to circulate and prevents stale smells. Adding a light fragrance – such as a lavender sachet – can also help keep everything smelling fresh.

Free up space without losing convenience

Suitcases can easily clutter your home if they’re not stored thoughtfully, particularly in smaller spaces. Finding a designated storage solution can free up valuable room while keeping your luggage safe and accessible. At Easystore, our flexible storage options make it easy to store suitcases and travel essentials securely, so they’re out of the way but always ready for your next holiday.

If you’re struggling for space at home, then why not consider Easystore? Our self storage units in Cardiff, South Wales are accessible 24 hours a day / 365 days a year, with free contents insurance included, ground floor access as standard, and more. Contact us or use our online quote form today.