To keep your stored blankets and quilts as fresh as the day you packed them away, make sure they’re completely clean and dry to avoid musty odors or mildew. For long-lasting freshness, use breathable storage options like cotton bins that allow air to circulate, preventing moisture buildup.
Adding natural deodorizers such as cedar blocks or lavender sachets not only keeps them smelling pleasant but also protects them from pests, ensuring your bedding stays in perfect condition.
Why do blankets smell after storage?
One of the most common issues with stored blankets and quilts is that they can develop a stale or musty odor. This happens primarily due to moisture trapped in the fabric, even if you may not notice it when first packing them away. In storage, moisture combined with a lack of airflow creates the perfect environment for mildew and bacteria to thrive, resulting in unpleasant smells.
Additionally, when stored in plastic or airtight containers, fabrics can't breathe, further contributing to the buildup of odors.
Natural fibers like cotton or wool are particularly prone to absorbing moisture from the air, making proper storage crucial to maintaining their freshness.
Wash your blankets and quilts before storing
The first and most important step to keeping blankets and quilts fresh in storage is to thoroughly clean them before packing them away. Stains, dirt, and body oils left on the fabric can worsen over time and even attract pests. Make sure to wash your bedding according to the care labels—delicate fabrics like wool or cashmere should be treated with special care to avoid shrinkage or damage.
For example, delicate knitwear like wool blankets may need to be hand washed or placed on a gentle cycle to prevent stretching or distortion. Following the same principles as caring for delicate garments, like in the case of delicate knitwear care, ensures your blankets are stored in optimal condition.
Once washed, it's critical that blankets and quilts are completely dry before storage. Even slight dampness can lead to mildew and musty odors. Air drying or tumble drying on a low heat setting is ideal to ensure every fiber is moisture-free.
Preventing dampness and mildew
To keep blankets fresh in storage, preventing dampness is key. Avoid storing them in places that are naturally humid, like basements or attics. Opt for dry, cool environments to ensure the best preservation. If humidity is a concern, silica gel packets or moisture absorbers can be placed inside the storage containers to help maintain a dry atmosphere.
When it comes to protecting delicate fibers, such as wool or mohair, care must be taken to prevent stretching. This principle is also essential in preventing distortion in knitwear, and the same logic applies to your quilts. Avoid hanging heavy blankets, as this can pull at the fibers over time, leading to misshaping.
Best way to store quilts and blankets
Choosing the right storage method makes all the difference in keeping your bedding fresh. Avoid using plastic bags or airtight containers, as these can trap moisture and prevent airflow. Instead, opt for breathable storage solutions like cotton or linen storage bags, which allow air to circulate while protecting the fabric from dust.
For quilts and larger blankets, folding them loosely is preferable to compressing them tightly, which can weaken fibers and leave permanent creases. Additionally, storing blankets with fabric softeners or perfumed sprays can cause chemical reactions over time, leading to deterioration or discoloration.
Stick to natural methods to maintain their quality.
How to keep blankets fresh in storage
Once your blankets and quilts are packed away, you can take extra steps to ensure long-term freshness. Incorporating natural deodorizers like cedar blocks, lavender sachets, or dried herbs can help maintain a pleasant scent while warding off pests. Cedar, in particular, is known for its ability to deter moths and other insects, making it an ideal addition to your storage space.
Be sure to regularly check on your stored blankets, especially in seasonal shifts when temperatures and humidity can fluctuate. This routine helps you catch any issues early, like dampness or mildew, and lets you refresh the natural deodorizers to ensure ongoing protection.
Deterring fabric pests
Fabric pests, like moths and carpet beetles, are a threat to stored textiles. Wool, cashmere, and other natural fibers are particularly vulnerable. To prevent an infestation, ensure your storage area is clean and pest-free before storing your blankets.
Using cedar blocks and cedar chips is one of the best natural defenses against these pests. Cedar naturally repels moths and other insects while leaving a pleasant scent. You can also use lavender sachets or bay leaves, which have similar properties.
It’s also a good idea to inspect stored blankets for any signs of pests periodically. Look for small holes or tell-tale signs of moth activity and immediately wash any affected items.
Using natural deodorizers for long-term freshness
Natural deodorizers are an easy, effective way to maintain freshness without exposing your blankets and quilts to chemicals. Cedar blocks, sachets filled with lavender, and dried herbs like rosemary or mint can be placed inside your storage containers. These not only neutralize any lingering odors but also help prevent mildew and pests.
Natural deodorizers have the added benefit of being long-lasting, though it's important to refresh or replace them every six to twelve months to ensure they continue working effectively.
With the right combination of deodorizers and breathable storage, your blankets can stay fresh and clean for the long haul.
How often should you check stored bedding?
Blankets and quilts that are stored for long periods should be checked at least every six months. This check-up allows you to ensure no moisture has crept in and that pests haven’t gotten into your storage area. Refreshing any natural deodorizers and rotating your stored blankets can help maintain their freshness for the next time you need them.
This simple routine will also give you peace of mind, knowing your stored bedding is in perfect condition and ready to use whenever the seasons change.
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