How To Store Ties
If you frequent business meetings or go out on the town, you are probably wondering how to store your ties so they will look their best. Nothing completes an outfit like a stylish necktie. Ties are highly collectable and if you like looking dapper, there’s a good chance you have your own tie collection already started. Ties can be made of wool, silk, cotton, linen, synthetic materials like polyester, or even leather in the case of bolo ties. Most materials will be stretched, wrinkled, or deformed when stored improperly. Continue reading to learn how to store ties properly to keep them looking their best and to ensure they last a long time.
The best way to store ties: The roll and store method
Our roll and store method is simple. It lets you store ties in minutes without the risk of wrinkling or creasing. Ditch the tie rack, and keep your ties in a manageable area for short or long-term storage. This way they will still be pristine when you are deciding which one to wear in the morning. This method works for neckties and bow ties. Here’s how:
- Start with a clean and ironed tie.
- Lay the tie on a flat surface with the inside facing up.
- Lightly fold the tie in half.
- Starting at the folded end, roll the tie loosely.
- Hold the tie and place in a drawer or organizer.
You can find an assortment of tie organizers online, which are simple boxes with dividers. However, we recommend fabric tie organizers or fabric drawer organizers. Fabric organizers will allow your bigger ties to expand, and they are superior to rigid plastic or wood organizers, which will deform your ties over time. If you don’t have a tie organizer, be careful to prevent over-stuffing your drawers. Over-stuffing will cause your ties to “smush” together and appear as if they were folded every 3 inches. This would defeat the purpose of lightly rolling and storing them. With or without organizers you can store anywhere from 10 – 100 or more ties in a small space; enough to look your best tomorrow and next year.
Iron or steam before you store
Make sure to iron or steam your ties before storing them in a box or wardrobe for wrinkle free storage. Creases and wrinkles in the fabric can become worse and harder to remove when left to solidify for longer periods of time.
Tie racks
Tie racks are a great way to hang ties you wear everyday in tip-top shape, and can be conveniently hung on a wall or in a closet next your dress shirts to save closet space. All you need to do is hang your ties by the middle. Some tie racks use pins, while others are hanging tie racks that can also accommodate belts. Bolo ties are best stored on a tie rack to ensure the cords are kept straight. Depending on the tie rack, you may be able to store anywhere from 10 – 30 ties.
DIY tie racks
Tie racks have a very basic function and design, so you can make them at home quite easily. We’ve seen everything from a 2x4 with wooden dowels screwed on both sides, to nails hammered into a hanging board on the wall. We have also seen teeny tiny hangers on a rod and professional-looking racks with additional space on top for wallets and tie clips.
Fold in half for easy long term storage
One of the most basic tie storing methods is to fold your ties in half and pack them alongside clothes in a One of the most basic tie storing methods is to fold your ties in half and pack them alongside clothes in a plastic storage bin. Doing this will not only allow you to save space, but it will also allow you to store your ties in the same area as your shirts. Furthermore, everything will be kept flat and stored in one place. When using this method, make sure the ties are packed flat, because they can easily shift and become wrinkled under other clothes.
Temperature and humidity
Always store your ties in a space where temperatures and humidity are regulated. Otherwise, mold and mildew may grow. Temperature fluctuations may also damage the fabric. If you are using a storage unit to store your ties, a climate-controlled unit will offer the most protection.
If you are storing ties, you might be interested in storing your suits properly.
Roll and Store Method
- Start with a clean and ironed tie.
- Lay the tie on a flat surface with the inside facing up.
- Lightly fold the tie in half.
- Starting at the folded end, roll the tie loosely.
- Hold the tie and place in a drawer or organizer.