While temperatures are getting cooler across the US, with a colder winter season expected this year, dressing for the weather as it transitions can feel more and more difficult.
That's why our professional organizer suggests putting what she calls a 'transition bin' in play before November 1 to help deal with those unpredictable weather changes and ensure you're never stuck with nothing to wear.
Here's why keeping one will streamline your fall wardrobe swap.
Homeowners Urged to Keep a 'Transition Bin'
When preparing your home for fall, it's just as important to take the time to prepare your wardrobe, too, swapping shorts for jeans and shirts for sweaters. But, if the temperature changes from day to day, as it so often does in the earlier part of fall, you may be left feeling frustrated – and far too hot – in your winter woolies on a sunny day.
That's why Di Ter Avest, professional organizer and founder of Diisorganized, suggests keeping what she's dubbed a 'transition bin', and there's still time in October to set it up and ease the strain of flip-flopping weather in early November.
She explains, 'Fall weather can be unpredictable – chilly mornings and warm afternoons – so instead of packing everything away, you can keep one bin for those in-between pieces like lightweight jackets, sneakers, and favorite tees.'
For this, we recommend using a stylish storage basket, so it won't interrupt your dressing room ideas or closet storage ideas, such as this Decorative Cotton Rope Storage Basket available at Wayfair, which is available in five colors.
Alternatively, Di recommends using underbed storage, suggesting the VARDÖ Underbed storage box, available at IKEA. The Amazon Basics Under Bed Fabric Zipper Blanket Storage Container Bags available at Amazon are a brilliant alternative.
'It will be your go-to spot when you need something that doesn't quite belong to either season,' continues Di. 'Having that bin means you are not tearing through stored boxes when you suddenly need a pair of sandals for a random warm weekend, or a trip to a warm place in the middle of winter.'
Importantly, though, make sure you limit this to one bin only; otherwise, your long-term clothes storage ideas will become cramped and crowded with out-of-season items.
Our pro organizers have revealed their must-haves for storing summer clothes away, and recommend breathable garment bags, such as the Cashmere Sweater Storage Bags available at Amazon, vacuum storage bags, and plastic bins.
When it comes to her transition bin, Di adds, 'Another favorite trick is adding cedar blocks or lavender sachets to storage bins.
'It's such a simple touch, but it makes a big difference. Not only does it help keep clothes and linens fresh, but it also adds a little natural scent that feels so clean when you open those bins next year.'
For this, Di recommends the MYARO Lavender Scented Sachets, available at Amazon, or the Cedar Space Cedar Blocks for Closet Storage, also available at Amazon, which are the aromatic, non-toxic cedar blocks shoppers love for moths.
'It's one of those small, thoughtful details that future-you will thank you for,' she adds.
What to Shop
All prices were correct at the time of publication.
This open-top storage basket makes it easy to grab and swap items out of your transition bin as the weather changes. The integrated handles make it easy to carry out of the bottom of your closet, or pull down from a shelf safely.
When you no longer need your transition bin, this storage basket will work brilliantly as a laundry basket, or for folding and storing large, bulky blankets in your living room.
Use one of these bins for your transition bin, and the rest for storing all your summer clothes, which you definitely won't be reaching for, like flip flops and swimwear, unless you have a winter vacation planned.
These sachets can be added to your seasonal storage or transition bin to freshen your clothing. They're also easy to use and long-lasting; simply give them a shake from time to time to enjoy the continuous fresh scent.
Pop smaller seasonal items, like summer caps and winter hats, in this basket so you can pick and choose what you need from day to day, depending on the weather.
These slim-line sachets are ideal for tucking into tight corners, providing a pleasant, consistent fragrance for up to six weeks, and are made with quality ingredients.
Meet the Expert
After you've tackled your closet, you also might be in need of some of the best expert seasonal storage tips for living rooms, which promote easy access, reduced clutter, and improved functionality.
