Clutter Control & Cleaning

First, you need to clean all the items, says Sheryll Fraze, a California-based designer of wardrobe organizers. “Getting rid of visible and invisible stains, like perspiration, is essential to avoiding moths,” she explains. Equally important: Don't make the common mistake of storing clean items in the plastic your dry cleaner sends things home in, warns Fraze. “It's not breathable and can lead to mildew smells and discoloration.” Instead, use muslin or cotton storage bags (and canvas bins for hats, scarves and gloves), which you can pick up at The Container Store or Linens 'n Things for around $15.