Storing Your Uniform

Here’s a detailed guide on how to properly hang and store your Navy League of Canada Cadet Uniform, including pants, dress shirt, pea coat, white top, and boots, ensuring it stays neat and ready for Parades and Inspections:

How to Properly Hang and Store a Navy League of Canada Cadet Uniform

Materials Needed:

• Two sturdy hangers (preferably wooden or thick plastic to maintain shape)
• Garment bag (optional for extra protection)
• Boot box or a Shoe rack or tray for boots
• Small shelf or space for your White Top (optional)

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Step 1: Hanging the Pants and Dress Shirt on One Hanger

1. Select the proper Hanger:
   Choose a wide, sturdy hanger to prevent the Uniform from sagging or creasing.
   Wooden or thick plastic hangers work best for both the dress shirt and pants.

2. Fold and Hang the Pants:
   Fold at the Crease: Locate the natural creases of the pants (down the center of each leg). Fold the pants neatly along these creases to preserve the sharpness of the Uniform.
   Place Over the Hanger: Drape the pants over the bar of the hanger.
   Ensure that both legs are aligned and that the fold is smooth to avoid wrinkles

3. Hang the Dress Shirt:
   One the same hanger that you placed your Pants on:
   Button Up: Start by buttoning the shirt completely to maintain its shape, especially around the collar and chest.
   Align the Seams: Place the dress shirt on the hanger, making sure the shoulder seams align with the edges of the hanger to prevent stretching.
   Smooth the Fabric: Smooth out the shirt's body and sleeves to avoid creases.

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Step 2: Hanging the Pea Coat on the Second Hanger

1. Choose a Heavy-Duty Hanger:
   Select a hanger that can support the weight of the pea coat.
   A sturdy wooden or padded hanger works best to keep the coat's shape and avoid stress on the shoulders.

2. Prepare the Pea Coat:
   Button the Coat:
   Fasten all buttons to keep the coat's form and prevent the fabric from sagging.
   Align the Seams: As with the shirt, make sure the shoulder seams rest squarely on the hanger's edges.

3. Hang the Pea Coat:
   Hang the coat separately from the dress shirt and pants to prevent it from crushing or wrinkling other items.
   If space is limited, hang it in a breathable garment bag to protect it from dust.

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Step 3: Storing Your Boots by the Uniform Options

1. Clean the Boots First:
   Before storing, always make sure your Boots are polished and clean.
   Wipe off any dust or dirt from the leather, and ensure the soles are free of mud or debris.

2. Use a Boot Box:
   Place the boots in a Boots Box and place neatly beneath your Uniform on a small tray or rack. This keeps them organized and prevents any dirt from getting on the Boots.
    
3. ​Place the boots neatly beneath your Uniform on a small tray or rack. This keeps them organized and prevents any dirt from getting on the Boots.

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Step 4: Storing the White Top Options

1. The best way to store your White Top is in your Boots Box with the White Top over teh opening to your Boots. This keeps your Uniform parts altogether and protected.
    
2. Place your White Top in a plastic bag and hang this on the top of the Pants and Dress Shirt Hanger.
    
3. Designate a Safe Spot: Find a clean, dry space near your hanging Uniform to store the White Top. Avoid places where it could get dirty or deformed.
    
4. Use a Hat Shelf or Hook: Ideally, store the White Top on a dedicated hat shelf or hook.
   If possible, use a cap cover or bag to protect it from dust and keep it pristine.
   ​

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Step 5: Storing the White Belt and Brass Buckle Options

1. Wind your White Belt and Brass Buckle into a coil and place inside your White Top so they are always together.​
    
2. Wind your White Belt and Brass Buckle into a coil and place inside your Boots so they are always together.
    
3. Wrap the White Belt with Brass Buckle around the hanger with your pants and dress shirt so they are always together.

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Additional Tips for Maintaining the Uniform:

• Avoid Overcrowding:
  Ensure there’s enough space between hangers to avoid crushing the Uniform, especially the pea coat, which can wrinkle or lose shape if compressed.
• Keep the Area Dry:
  Store the Uniform in a dry, well-ventilated area to prevent mildew or damage, especially with the wool pea coat and leather boots.
• Cover with a Garment Bag:
  For added protection, you can cover the entire Uniform (pants, shirt, and coat) with a breathable garment bag to shield it from dust, especially if you won’t be wearing it for some time.
• Weekly Maintenance:
  Check your Uniform weekly, smoothing any wrinkles, ensuring the boots are polished, and inspecting for any dirt or marks on the White Top.

By following this method, you’ll ensure that your Navy League of Canada Cadet Uniform stays crisp, clean, and in perfect condition for Parades and Inspections!