Maya Ellison
Plastic storage containers are a convenient and affordable way to store clothing. They keep clothes organized and protected from environmental factors that can damage fabrics over time. However, there are concerns about the safety of using plastic for long-term clothing storage, including off-gassing chemicals, links to respiratory issues or cancer, and the risk of mould, mildew, discolouration and fabric breakdown. So, should you keep clothes in plastic?
Should you keep clothes in plastic?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Protection | Plastic containers protect clothing from environmental factors that can damage fabrics over time. |
| Convenience | Plastic containers are a convenient and affordable way to keep clothing organised. |
| Health concerns | There are concerns over plastic safety, off-gassing chemicals, and links to respiratory issues or cancer. |
| Mould and mildew | Plastic containers can trap moisture, leading to mould and mildew issues. |
| Discolouration and fading | Plastic containers can cause discolouration and fading of clothing. |
| Static electricity | Plastic bins can create static electricity, potentially damaging clothing. |
| Alternative options | Non-plastic options such as cedar chests, cotton bags, and cardboard boxes are available. |
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What You'll Learn
Plastic bags can cause mould, mildew, discolouration, and fading
Plastic bags are not ideal for storing clothes, as they can cause mould, mildew, discolouration, and fading. Firstly, plastic bags can trap moisture and create a breeding ground for mould and mildew, which can damage your clothes over time. This is especially true if the clothes are not fully dried before being placed in the plastic bag. To prevent mould and mildew, it is important to allow air circulation and ventilation, which plastic bags do not provide.
Secondly, plastic bags can cause discolouration and fading of your clothes. Butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) is a chemical anti-oxidant found in some plastic bags, particularly dry cleaning bags. When BHT comes into contact with impurities in the air and moisture, it forms a yellow pigment that can transfer to your clothes, causing discolouration and fading.
Additionally, plastic bags can have other detrimental effects on your garments. The plastic can break down over time, leaving your clothes exposed to damage. The thin and sharp edges of some plastic bags can also leave permanent imprints on your clothes, especially on the shoulders. Furthermore, plastic bags can trap bacteria and create a less-than-ideal environment for your clothes, leading to possible odours and fabric breakdown.
Overall, it is best to avoid using plastic bags for long-term clothing storage. Instead, opt for alternative storage methods that allow for air circulation, such as cloth bags, cotton covers, or cardboard boxes. These options provide breathability while still protecting your clothes from external factors.
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Plastic is not breathable and can seal in bacteria
Plastic containers are not breathable and can seal in bacteria, moisture, mould, and other environmental factors that can damage fabrics over time. They can also cause fabric and structural breakdown, discolouration, fading, and staining. Butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT), a chemical anti-oxidant found in plastic dry cleaning bags, can cause garment yellowing and fading when stored long-term. When BHT comes into contact with impurities in the air and moisture, it forms a yellow pigment that transfers to the fabric.
If you must use plastic containers, ensure they have vented sidewalls and are only used for mainstream, everyday clothing items that are less susceptible to mould or mildew over weeks, not years. It is also important to make sure that the clothes are fully dried and cleanly laundered before being placed in plastic containers.
Natural alternatives to plastic containers include cotton bags, pillowcases, tissue paper, and cedar chips or lavender sachets. These options allow for better airflow and can help prevent mould and mildew.
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Plastic bags are not suitable for natural fibres
Plastic bags are not suitable for storing natural fibres such as wool and silk. The vacuum seal of plastic bags can cause these fabrics to lose their shape over time. Plastic is also a breeding ground for mould and bacteria, which can damage clothing. The same goes for cardboard boxes, which can deteriorate over time.
Fresh air is essential when storing clothes long-term. It helps promote garment longevity and prevents mould and mildew. Garments should be kept in a space where air can comfortably circulate. This helps to dry out any moisture beads and prevents mould build-up.
Plastic dry cleaning bags should only be used to transport clothes. Butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT), a chemical anti-oxidant found in plastic dry cleaning bags, can cause yellowing and fading when stored long-term.
There are natural alternatives to plastic bags for storing clothes. Cedar chips, lavender, mint, clove, rosemary, and thyme sachets are pleasant ways to protect clothes. They are easily made by filling small cotton pouches with dried herbs or chips.
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Plastic containers are convenient and affordable
Plastic containers are a convenient and affordable way to store clothing. They are easily stackable and can be organised according to seasonal needs. They also provide extra protection for garments, keeping them safe from environmental factors that can damage fabrics over time.
However, there are some concerns about using plastic containers for clothing storage. Plastic containers are not very breathable, and airtight plastic can seal in bacteria, moisture, and mould. This can cause clothing to develop a musty smell, and in the case of natural fibres such as wool and silk, it can cause them to lose their shape over time.
To mitigate these issues, it is important to ensure that clothing is fully dried and cleanly laundered before being placed in plastic containers. It is also recommended to line the containers with paper or fabric to improve airflow and reduce the risk of mould or discolouration.
Additionally, it is important to handle plastic containers with care to avoid static electricity build-up, which can cause subtle, unseen damage to clothing. This can be minimised by ensuring that plastic bins have vented sidewalls and are handled with minimal contact.
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Plastic bags are not suitable for long-term storage
Natural fibres such as wool and silk can be damaged by the vacuum seal of plastic bags, causing them to lose their shape over time. Plastic bags can also trap in bacteria, moisture, and mould. While plastic storage containers are convenient and affordable, they have been linked to respiratory issues and cancer due to off-gassing chemicals.
To prevent mould, it is essential to ensure adequate airflow when storing clothes. This can be achieved by keeping windows and doors open, using fans, or air conditioning. Cedar is a natural alternative to plastic that repels moths and allows for airflow. However, some people may experience lung problems due to cedar fumes.
Instead of plastic bags, cotton bags, covers, or pillowcases can be used for storage. It is also recommended to wash and thoroughly dry clothes before storing them to prevent mould growth.
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Frequently asked questions
No, you should not keep your clothes in plastic bags. Plastic bags can cause mould, mildew, discolouration, fading, and fabric and structural breakdown.
You can use cotton bags, pillowcases, tissue paper, cardboard boxes, or wooden hangers.
Plastic bags are convenient, affordable, and protect clothing from environmental factors that can damage fabrics over time.
Aside from the damage it can cause to clothing, plastic bags also pose health risks. There are concerns over plastic safety, off-gassing chemicals, and links to respiratory issues or cancer.
To prevent mould, make sure your clothes are fully dried and cleanly laundered before storing them. Store your clothes in an area with good air circulation and avoid direct and indirect sunlight.
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