How To Keep Blankets Fresh In Storage: Preventing Mustiness

Hi there! If you’re looking for tips on how to keep your blankets fresh while in storage, you’ve come to the right place. Storing blankets for an extended period can sometimes lead to mustiness and unpleasant odors. But don’t worry, with a few simple steps, you can ensure that your blankets stay fresh and cozy until you need them again.

One of the main causes of mustiness in stored blankets is the lack of ventilation in linen cupboards, especially during warmer months. This lack of airflow promotes the growth of mold and mildew, resulting in that unwanted musty smell. Similarly, closed-up homes with heaters in cooler months can also contribute to musty odors.

So, how can you prevent this mustiness and keep your blankets fresh? Here are some blanket storage tips to help you out:

Key Takeaways:

• Ensure proper ventilation to allow blankets to breathe and prevent mustiness.
• Choose a cool and dry storage location for blankets to maintain freshness.
• Add a pleasant scent, such as lavender sachets or scented candles, to keep blankets smelling fresh.
• Use baking soda in the storage area to absorb odors.
• Wash and fully dry blankets before storing to remove sweat and bacteria.

Tips for Storing Blankets, Sheets, and Comforters

Properly storing your blankets, sheets, and comforters is essential to keep them fresh, prevent odors, and maintain their quality. Here are some helpful tips to ensure your bedding stays in great shape during storage:

1. Clean before storing: Before packing your bedding away, make sure to clean it thoroughly. Washing sheets, pillowcases, and blankets in cold water with a gentle detergent is recommended. This helps remove any dirt, spills, or sweat that could cause damage or develop odors during storage.
2. Proper drying: After washing, it’s important to properly dry your bedding before storing it. Avoid folding or packing damp bedding, as moisture can lead to mold or mildew growth. Ensure your bedding is completely dry by using a dryer or hanging it out in the sun, depending on the fabric’s care instructions.
3. Avoid damp areas: When choosing a storage location for your bedding, avoid damp areas such as basements or garages. These areas are more prone to moisture, which can promote musty odors and mold growth. Instead, opt for dry and well-ventilated spaces to keep your bedding fresh.
4. Utilize storage solutions: To keep your bedding organized and properly stored, consider using storage solutions like linen closets, under-bed storage containers, or armoires. These options not only provide a designated space for your bedding but also protect it from dust and potential damage.
5. Natural odor absorbers: To prevent musty smells in your stored bedding, utilize natural odor absorbers such as baking soda, cedar chips, or lavender sachets. Place these items in the storage space or with the folded bedding to help absorb any odors and keep your blankets smelling fresh.
6. Avoid plastic bags: Although it may seem convenient, avoid storing your bedding in plastic bags. Plastic bags can trap moisture, leading to a damp environment that promotes mold growth. Instead, opt for breathable fabric storage bags or pillowcases to protect your bedding while allowing air circulation.
7. Regularly organize and declutter: To maintain freshness in your bedding storage area, periodically organize and declutter the space. Remove any unnecessary items and ensure proper airflow to prevent mustiness. Keeping the area clean and tidy will help preserve your bedding’s quality.
8. Follow manufacturer recommendations: Different types of bedding may have specific care instructions for folding and storing. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations to ensure you’re storing your bedding correctly and maintaining its quality over time.
9. Consider climate-controlled storage: For long-term storage or if you live in a particularly humid or extreme climate, consider using climate-controlled storage units. These units help regulate temperature and humidity levels, providing an optimal environment for preserving your bedding.

By following these tips, your blankets, sheets, and comforters will stay fresh and free from musty odors during storage. Proper care and storage ensure that when you retrieve them, you can enjoy the cozy comfort of freshly stored bedding.

Conclusion

Proper storage of blankets is crucial to prevent mustiness and maintain their freshness for future use. By following a few simple tips and guidelines, you can ensure that your blankets remain clean and odor-free:

1. Clean before storing:

Before placing your blankets in storage, it’s important to clean them thoroughly. Wash them using cold water and a gentle detergent to remove any sweat, bacteria, or stains. This will help prevent the growth of mold, mildew, and odors.

2. Properly dry:

After washing, make sure your blankets are completely dry before storing them. Moisture can lead to mold and mildew growth. Hang them outdoors or use a dryer on a low heat setting until they are fully dry.

3. Choose the right storage location:

Find a cool, dry, and well-ventilated space to store your blankets. Avoid storing them in damp areas such as basements or garages, as this can promote musty smells and mold growth. A linen closet or under-bed storage container is ideal for maintaining freshness.

4. Use natural odor absorbers:

Prevent musty smells by placing natural odor absorbers, such as baking soda, cedar chips, or lavender sachets, near your stored blankets. These will help absorb any odors and keep your blankets smelling fresh.

5. Avoid plastic containers:

Avoid storing blankets in plastic containers, as they can trap moisture and promote the growth of mold and mildew. Instead, use linen bags or pillowcase protection to allow your blankets to breathe and maintain their freshness.

6. Organize and declutter:

Regularly organize and declutter your bedding storage areas to maintain cleanliness and prevent mustiness. This will also make it easier for you to find and access your blankets when needed.

7. Consider climate-controlled storage:

If you need long-term storage for your blankets, sheets, and comforters, consider using climate-controlled storage units. These units regulate temperature and humidity levels, ensuring optimal conditions for preserving your bedding.

By following these blanket storage tips, you can prevent mustiness, maintain the freshness of your blankets, and ensure they are ready to use whenever you need them.

Source Links

• https://www.midgardselfstorage.com/blog/a-guide-to-storing-linens-how-to-keep-storage-smelling-fresh
• https://www.lifestorage.com/blog/storage/how-to-store-comforters/
• https://uk.bedthreads.com/blogs/journal/how-to-store-linen-to-avoid-musty-smell