Maya Ellison
Plastic containers are a convenient and affordable way to store clothes, protecting them from environmental factors that can cause damage over time. They are easy to handle, stack well, and keep moisture and bugs out. However, they have been known to have downsides, such as trapping gases and moisture, which can lead to mould growth. To avoid this, it is important to store plastic bins in open-air surroundings, allowing generous airflow around the containers. Additionally, it is recommended to separate items with acid-free tissue paper to protect fabrics from discolouration and to avoid overfilling the containers so that the items have room to breathe.
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What You'll Learn
Choose the right container
Plastic containers are a convenient and affordable way to store clothing, protecting them from environmental factors that can cause damage over time. However, there are some concerns about the safety of plastic containers, such as off-gassing chemicals and links to respiratory issues or cancer. It is important to choose the right container to minimise these risks.
Firstly, it is important to note that plastic containers are not suitable for all types of clothing. Natural fibres such as wool and silk can be damaged by plastic bags, causing them to lose their shape over time. Plastic bags can also trap moisture, providing a breeding ground for mould and bacteria. For these types of clothing, fabric containers are a better option. Fabric containers are typically more popular because they are breathable, preventing odours and mildew while shielding from dust and debris. They are also a good option for delicate fabrics such as silk or cashmere.
However, if the storage environment is damp or humid, plastic containers will offer better protection than fabric. Plastic containers are easy to handle, stack well, and keep moisture and bugs out. When choosing plastic containers, opt for thicker, BPA-free bins made from high-density polyethylene (HDPE) or polypropylene (PP). Avoid stacking plastic containers tightly, as this can trap gases and moisture, leading to mould growth. Instead, store them in open-air surroundings with generous airflow around the containers.
To further protect your clothing, separate each item with acid-free tissue paper and avoid overfilling the containers. You can also use desiccant packs, silica gel packets, or cedar blocks to absorb moisture and repel pests. Additionally, consider airing out your clothing periodically, every 2-3 months, to prevent creases and mould issues.
Overall, the key to choosing the right container is considering the type of clothing, the storage environment, and the potential risks associated with different materials. By taking these factors into account, you can ensure your clothing stays damage-free.
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Prepare clothes for storage
Firstly, decide which clothes you want to store. Dividing your clothes into seasonal items can free up closet space and make you more organised.
Then, wash and completely dry all the clothes you want to store. By washing them beforehand, you can ensure that your clothes are clean and free of stains and odours. Make sure they are thoroughly dried, as even a little bit of moisture can cause mould.
If you are storing leather items, it is good practice to polish them before storing and to let them air out before putting them away. You should also check on them halfway through the storage period and reapply balm or cream so that the leather does not dry out.
Before packing your clothes away, give them a shake to get any dust or hair off. You can also separate each item with acid-free tissue paper to help protect your fabrics from discolouration.
Finally, consider using a moisture absorber like silica gel packets or a small dehumidifier, as well as cedar blocks or lavender sachets, to keep your items fresh and repel pests.
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Stacking and placement
When stacking the containers, avoid tightly packing them together. Instead, place them on shelves or in open-air surroundings, allowing for ventilation and airflow. This helps prevent the buildup of chemical off-gassing, high humidity, and mould growth. Stacking the containers in a well-ventilated area also minimises the risks associated with plastic off-gassing, which has been linked to respiratory issues.
The placement of the containers should be in a cool, dry, dark, and well-ventilated area. Avoid areas with unstable temperatures, such as attics or garages, as these can damage textiles. Choose a storage room or a self-storage unit that offers good airflow and doesn't receive direct sunlight. This will help protect your clothes from fading, mildew, and other damage.
Additionally, consider the placement of items within the containers. Separate each item with acid-free tissue paper to prevent discolouration and provide a barrier against pressure. Place heavier items, such as denim or leather jackets, at the bottom to protect more delicate clothing. Avoid overfilling the containers to ensure proper airflow and ventilation.
Finally, when placing containers in a closet or storage unit, consider accessibility. Place the containers on shelves or in a configuration that allows you to easily identify and retrieve the items you need without disturbing other containers or their contents. Labelling the containers can also aid in finding specific items and maintaining an organised system.
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Protecting against damage
Plastic containers are a practical choice for storing clothes as they are easy to handle, stack well, and protect against environmental factors that can damage fabrics over time, such as moisture, bugs, dust, and debris. However, there are some potential downsides to using plastic containers for clothing storage, including concerns around plastic safety, off-gassing chemicals, and speculation about links to respiratory issues or cancer. To protect your clothes from damage when using plastic containers, follow these steps:
Firstly, always clean your clothes before storing them to avoid the spread of odours and stains between items. Stains can become permanent over time, and odours can transfer to other pieces in long-term storage. If there are any items with stains or tears, consider getting rid of them.
Secondly, when packing your plastic container, avoid overfilling it. Place heavier items in first, such as leather or denim jackets, to protect more delicate clothing from unnecessary pressure. Separate each item with a piece of acid-free tissue paper to protect your fabrics from discolouration. You can also use silica gel or desiccant packets to help prevent moisture and mildew growth.
Thirdly, do not stack your containers tightly. Instead, store them openly on shelves, allowing ventilation to prevent volatile compounds from concentrating. Trapped moisture encourages fabric-decaying mould, which can lead to irreversible staining damage. If your storage unit is exposed to light, consider using dark-coloured containers to prevent fabric fading.
Lastly, give your stored items a little attention each year. Textiles need to breathe, so take your clothes out of their containers annually and let them air out for a few hours. This practice helps prevent permanent creasing and gives you an opportunity to check on the condition of your clothes.
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Maintaining stored clothes
Wash and Dry
Before storing your clothes, ensure they are washed, cleaned, and completely dried. Stains and odours can set in and spread to other items if left untreated. Even a little bit of moisture can cause mould and bacteria to grow, so it is crucial to have your garments bone dry before packing them away.
Choose the Right Storage Container
Plastic containers are a practical choice for storing clothes as they are easy to handle, stack well, and protect against pests and moisture. However, they are not waterproof and can allow sunlight to fade the colours of your clothes. To avoid this, opt for dark-coloured or opaque containers. If you are storing delicate fabrics such as silk or cashmere, fabric or canvas bins are a better option as they are breathable.
Packing Techniques
When packing your clothes, try rolling them instead of folding to reduce wrinkles and hard crease lines. You can also use acid-free tissue paper or old pillowcases to wrap and protect your garments. Additionally, compartmentalise items within the container using smaller bags or containers. This will make it easier to access your clothes and prevent the need to rummage through everything.
Pest Control
To deter pests such as moths, include cedar blocks or lavender sachets in your containers. You can also use dryer sheets or moth-repelling drawer sachets. Keeping your clothes in a well-ventilated area with low humidity will also help prevent pest infestations.
Regular Maintenance
Take your clothes out of storage at least once a year to air them out and inspect them for any signs of pests, moisture, or mould. When returning them to storage, unfold and roll them in a different way to prevent permanent creases.
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Frequently asked questions
Wash and completely dry your clothes before storing them in plastic containers. Then, place heavier items in first, such as leather or denim jackets, to protect more delicate clothing from unnecessary pressure.
To prevent mould and mildew, make sure your clothes are completely dry before storing them. You can also use moisture absorbers, such as silica gel packets, and pack cedar or lavender sachets with your clothing to impart a pleasant smell.
Separate each item with a piece of acid-free tissue paper to protect your fabrics from discolouration.
Dust the interior of the bins with Food Grade Diatomaceous Earth to kill any bugs. You can also use cedar blocks to repel pests.
Store your plastic containers in a cool, dry, dark place with good airflow. Avoid storing them in confined spaces such as closets or basement corners, as this can lead to mould growth.
