Alexei Volkov
There are differing opinions on whether yarn should be stored in plastic bags. Some people believe that plastic bags are unsuitable for yarn storage because they can trap moisture, leading to mould, and because they are not airtight, meaning that insects can enter. However, others argue that they have successfully stored yarn in plastic bags for years without any issues and that it is a convenient way to keep the yarn clean, dry, odour-free, and protected from dust, bugs, and light damage. Ultimately, the decision comes down to examining the risks and benefits and considering factors such as the climate, the presence of pests, and personal preferences.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Protection from bugs and moths | Yes |
| Protection from dust | Yes |
| Protection from sunlight | Yes |
| Protection from humidity | Yes, but can trap moisture if not airtight |
| Protection from children and pets | Yes |
| Protection from mould | Yes, but can trap moisture if not airtight |
| Protection from disintegration | Yes |
| Protection from spontaneous combustion | Yes |
| Protection from crushing fibres | No |
| Protection from plastic smell | No |
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What You'll Learn
- Plastic bags can keep yarn clean, dry, odourless and moth-free
- Plastic bags are not airtight, so yarn can absorb moisture and be prone to fungi
- Plastic bags are cheap but not ideal for long-term storage
- Vacuum bags can damage yarn fibres
- Yarn should be stored in a cool, dry, dark place, away from sunlight
Plastic bags can keep yarn clean, dry, odourless and moth-free
Plastic bags can be an effective way to keep yarn clean, dry, odourless, and moth-free. Many knitters opt for Ziploc bags, vacuum bags, or plastic storage bags to protect their yarn from external factors.
Yarn is susceptible to damage from insects, moisture, and mould. Plastic bags can act as a protective barrier, preventing insects from accessing the yarn and maintaining dryness by blocking moisture. Some knitters even freeze their yarn before storing it in plastic bags to ensure any insects are eliminated.
Additionally, plastic bags can help keep yarn odourless by sealing in any scents and preventing external odours from permeating the fibres. This is especially useful for wool yarns, which can absorb and retain odours more easily than synthetic yarns.
Moths are a common concern for yarn enthusiasts, as they are attracted to natural fibres and can cause significant damage. Plastic bags can act as a physical barrier, preventing moths from accessing the yarn. Some knitters also recommend using cedar sachets or blocks in combination with plastic bags for extra protection against moths.
However, it is important to note that plastic bags may not be 100% airtight, and long-term storage in plastic bags can lead to moisture absorption in humid environments. Additionally, soft plastic bags may become brittle over time, and some larvae can chew through thin bags. For these reasons, some knitters prefer to use airtight boxes or containers for long-term yarn storage.
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Plastic bags are not airtight, so yarn can absorb moisture and be prone to fungi
While some knitters store their yarn in plastic bags, others are strongly against it. One common concern is that plastic bags are not airtight, and therefore yarn can absorb moisture through every small opening, creating the perfect environment for fungi.
Yarn stored in a humid environment will eventually absorb moisture, which can lead to mould. This is similar to how internally damp hair, when stored in a closed environment, can trap moisture and become mouldy. Even if there is a dry day tomorrow, mould can get into the yarn today.
Some knitters recommend storing yarn in sealed plastic containers or space bags. However, others argue that soft plastic will get brittle sooner or later, and some larvae can eat their way through thin bags. Additionally, vacuum bags can crush and pressure the fibres, which may damage them.
To prevent mould, some knitters add silica gel to their yarn stash to regulate humidity. Others store their yarn in airtight boxes, ensuring that they are properly sealed to prevent moisture and insects from crawling inside.
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Plastic bags are cheap but not ideal for long-term storage
Plastic bags are a cheap and convenient way to store yarn, but they are not ideal for long-term storage. While plastic bags can keep yarn clean, dry, odour-free, and protected from bugs, there are several reasons why they may not be the best choice for long-term storage.
Firstly, plastic bags are not always airtight. Over time, yarn stored in non-airtight plastic bags can absorb moisture through small openings, creating an environment susceptible to mould and fungi. This is especially true in humid climates, where yarn should be kept away from ambient moisture. To prevent this, some people place their yarn in airtight boxes or sealed plastic containers.
Secondly, soft plastic bags can become brittle over time, and some larvae can chew through thin plastic. As a result, long-term storage in plastic bags may leave yarn vulnerable to insect infestations. To address this concern, some knitters recommend using cedar sachets or blocks to repel insects.
Additionally, vacuum bags, a type of plastic bag that removes air to save space, can crush and pressure the fibres of the yarn, potentially damaging them. This is because yarn, especially those spun from animal hair, should be treated similarly to human hair, which can be damaged if crimped for extended periods.
Finally, some knitters have reported a strong plastic smell transferring to their yarn when stored in plastic bags or containers. To avoid this issue, it is recommended to air out plastic storage containers before use.
In conclusion, while plastic bags are a cost-effective option for yarn storage, they may not be ideal for long-term use due to the risk of moisture absorption, insect damage, fibre crushing, and plastic odour transfer. For these reasons, it is essential to carefully consider the risks and benefits of different storage methods and choose the best option for your specific needs.
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Vacuum bags can damage yarn fibres
There are a variety of ways to store yarn, and many people opt for plastic bags and plastic bins. Some people have expressed concerns about storing yarn in plastic bags, but many people have been doing it for years without any problems.
However, vacuum bags, in particular, may not be the best option for storing yarn. This is because they can crush and pressure the fibres, which may damage them. Most yarn is spun from animal hair, and just like human hair, it can be damaged by crimping. One person who had vacuum-sealed their yarn reported that, although the final knit looked fine, the wool was horrible to work with and full of little crinkles and kinks.
Additionally, wool holds moisture, and condensation can build up inside the bags. This can create the perfect environment for fungi to grow.
If you are set on storing yarn in plastic bags, it is recommended to use silica gel bags, rice, or another dehumidifying agent to regulate humidity.
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Yarn should be stored in a cool, dry, dark place, away from sunlight
There are differing opinions on whether yarn should be stored in plastic bags. Some people believe that plastic bags can make the yarn brittle and susceptible to insects, while others find that plastic bags keep their yarn clean, dry, odour-free, and protected from bugs and dust.
One common concern is that yarn needs to "breathe". However, this is a misconception, as yarn does not need to be stored in an open environment. In fact, storing dry yarn in a non-airtight plastic bag in a humid environment can cause the yarn to absorb moisture, creating the perfect environment for fungi. To prevent this, it is essential to ensure that yarn is stored in a dry place and that any storage container is properly sealed.
To maintain the quality of yarn, it is recommended to store it in a cool, dry, dark place, away from sunlight. This can be achieved by using airtight boxes or containers made of plastic or other materials. Some people choose to store yarn in plastic bags within these containers for added protection. However, it is important to note that plastic bags may not be 100% airtight, and insects can chew through thin bags.
Additionally, it is suggested to include silica gel, rice, or other dehumidifying agents in the storage containers to regulate humidity. This is especially important if the yarn is being stored in a humid environment, as it can help prevent the growth of mould.
Overall, while plastic bags can be used for yarn storage, it is crucial to consider the specific conditions and potential risks, such as humidity and insects, to ensure the yarn remains in good condition.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, yarn can be stored in plastic bags. Some people store yarn in Ziploc bags, vacuum bags, or space bags. However, it is worth noting that soft plastic can get brittle over time, and some larvae can eat through thin bags. Plastic bags are also not 100% airtight, which may lead to moisture and insects getting in.
Some people prefer to store yarn in airtight boxes, shoe bags, or baskets. Others store yarn in plastic bins, but this may result in an unpleasant plastic smell.
To prevent bugs from getting into your yarn, you can put the yarn in the freezer for three days and then inside a hot car for three days. This will kill any moths or larvae. You can also use cedar sachets or moth traps to prevent bugs.
