The autumn changeover: storing summer linen and clothes in Spain

Why the changeover matters on the coast

The cambio de armario, the twice-yearly swap of wardrobe and bedding, is a Spanish habit with good reason. Along the coast, autumn brings higher humidity, and anything packed away slightly damp or unwashed can come out in spring smelling musty or with spots of mildew.

Late October, once the first cooler nights arrive, is a sensible moment to do it.

Wash and dry completely before storing

Wash summer sheets, throws and clothes even if they only look worn once or twice. Sweat, sun cream and body oils are invisible when stored but can yellow fabric over the months.

Make sure everything is completely dry, not just dry to the touch. Line-drying in the sun is ideal in Andalusia, but give heavier items such as cotton blankets an extra day. Skip fabric softener on items going into storage, as it can leave residue that attracts dust.

Choose the right storage

Breathable cotton bags or boxes lined with clean cotton are better for linen and natural fibres than sealed plastic, which traps moisture. Vacuum bags are fine for synthetic duvets but can flatten feather or down filling if left compressed for months.

Avoid storing anything on the floor of a ground-floor wardrobe or against an outside wall, where damp gathers first. Natural lavender sachets and cedar blocks freshen the space; replace them each season.

Refresh the wardrobe itself

With the shelves empty, vacuum the corners, wipe surfaces with a cloth lightly dampened with a mild solution, and let the wardrobe air with its doors open before refilling. Check for any damp patch on the back panel, which can signal a moisture problem in the wall.

If a second home will be empty over winter, leave wardrobe doors slightly open and a moisture absorber inside.

When to ask for help

For a villa with many beds, or a rental property that has to be ready for the next guests, the changeover can take a full day. Lavanda can handle the laundry, remake the beds with fresh winter linen and tidy the wardrobes, so you come back to a home that feels ready.