Summer is a beautiful time in Florida — but it’s also when your home’s hidden spaces start working against you. If you’ve ever opened a closet in July and been hit with that musty, slightly sweet odor, you know what we’re talking about.
Warm temperatures, high humidity, and poor air circulation create a perfect environment for mold, mildew, and even moths to thrive. And since closets tend to be closed off and packed full, they’re often the first place to show signs of summer stress.
Don’t worry — with a bit of preparation and the right routine, you can protect your clothes, bedding, and shoes from damage. Here’s how.
Why Closets Become a Problem in Summer
Florida summers bring:
- High humidity levels — even at night
- Infrequent airflow in closed spaces
- Condensation near poorly insulated walls
- Moisture buildup in heavy fabrics like blankets or jackets
- Attraction for pests like fabric moths and silverfish
Combined, these factors turn your storage space into a breeding ground for mold spores and insects — especially if you haven’t opened that closet door in a while.
Step-by-Step: How to Refresh and Protect Your Closet
1. Empty Everything Out
Start by removing everything from the closet — clothes, shoes, boxes, bags, hangers. This gives you full access to:
- Spot any discoloration or moisture on walls
- Wipe away hidden dust and grime
- Inspect fabrics for odor, mold, or insect activity
If something smells musty or feels damp, it’s a red flag.
2. Deep Clean Surfaces
Use a microfiber cloth and a safe solution to clean:
- Walls and shelves – try diluted white vinegar (1:3) or 70% isopropyl alcohol
- Corners and joints – a soft toothbrush works well
- Plastic bins or containers – wipe with baking soda and water or disinfectant
Allow everything to air dry completely before putting anything back.
3. Check and Freshen Your Clothes
- Wash anything that smells even slightly off
- Sun-dry heavier items like wool or denim if possible
- Don’t fold damp laundry straight into storage — let it breathe
- Pack rarely used clothing in breathable bags or vacuum-sealed containers
- Add natural moth repellents: cedar blocks, lavender sachets, or dried rosemary
4. Reduce Moisture Long-Term
Summer moisture won’t just disappear — you need to manage it.
- Place moisture absorbers inside closets (like silica gel or bamboo charcoal)
- Keep closet doors slightly open if airflow is poor
- Avoid overcrowding — let air circulate
- Don’t store shoes or damp towels in the closet
- If you use a dehumidifier at home, run it daily in peak humidity hours
5. Create a Monthly Summer Routine
You don’t need to deep clean weekly, but check in on your closets regularly:
- Wipe shelf surfaces once a month
- Replace moth sachets or odor absorbers every 4–6 weeks
- Shake out and re-fold stored blankets or linens
- Rotate garments to avoid dead spots where air never reaches
Bonus Tips
- Avoid plastic garment bags — they trap moisture. Use cotton covers instead.
- Line shelves with breathable shelf paper, not vinyl
- Use lightly scented drawer liners to add a fresh note without being overwhelming
- If you live near the beach, watch for salt buildup — it can attract moisture
Florida summers are humid and relentless, but your closet doesn’t have to suffer for it. With just a few preventive habits, you can avoid expensive damage — and keep your stored items fresh, clean, and ready to use.
