what to put in storage bins to prevent mold

3 min read 26-12-2024

what to put in storage bins to prevent mold

Mold in storage is a homeowner's nightmare. It can ruin belongings and create health hazards. Preventing mold requires proactive measures, starting with what you place inside your storage bins. This guide details how to choose the right items and employ smart storage techniques to keep your stored goods mold-free.

Understanding Mold Growth: The Perfect Storm

Mold thrives in damp, dark, and warm environments. Storage bins, especially those in basements, attics, or garages, can easily become such environments. To prevent mold, you need to minimize these factors. This means choosing the right materials for storage and paying close attention to the contents of your bins.

Key Factors Contributing to Mold Growth:

Moisture: The biggest culprit. Even seemingly dry items can harbor moisture.
Temperature: Warm temperatures accelerate mold growth.
Lack of Air Circulation: Stagnant air allows moisture to accumulate.
Organic Matter: Mold feeds on organic materials like paper, wood, and textiles.

Choosing the Right Storage Bins and Materials

The containers themselves play a significant role in mold prevention. Opt for bins made from breathable materials to allow for better air circulation. Avoid airtight containers unless the contents are completely dry and non-organic.

Recommended Storage Bin Materials:

Plastic (Breathable): Look for bins with ventilation holes or slightly porous plastic. Avoid completely sealed, airtight plastic containers for items that may retain moisture.
Cloth: Canvas or breathable fabric bins allow better air circulation than plastic, but ensure they're water-resistant or stored in a dry place.

Materials to AVOID for Storage:

Cardboard: Cardboard absorbs moisture readily, creating an ideal breeding ground for mold.
Airtight Metal Containers (for damp items): While metal itself resists mold, sealed containers trap moisture.

What to Put in Storage Bins to Prevent Mold

The contents of your storage bins are just as crucial as the bins themselves. Careful selection and preparation can dramatically reduce mold risk.

Safe Storage Practices:

Thoroughly Dry Items Before Storing: This is paramount. Air-dry everything completely before placing it in storage.
Use Desiccants: Silica gel packets (often found in shoeboxes and electronics packaging) absorb moisture. Include extra packets in your bins for added protection. Consider placing a small, open container of baking soda, which also absorbs moisture.
Avoid Storing Organic Materials Directly: Wrap items like books, photos, or textiles in acid-free tissue paper or archival-quality materials to protect them from moisture and prevent mold.
Use Moisture Absorbing Sheets: These are specifically designed to absorb excess moisture and can be purchased online or at many home improvement stores.

Items to Store with Caution:

Textiles: Clean and thoroughly dry clothing, linens, and other textiles before storing. Consider using cedar chests or including cedar chips for their natural insect and moisture-repelling properties. Do not pack damp items.
Paper Products: Acid-free boxes and sleeves are best for storing important documents or photographs. Again, complete dryness is key. Consider using a desiccant.
Wood: Wood furniture and wooden items should be thoroughly cleaned and dried before storage. Consider applying a protective finish if possible before storage.
Electronics: These are particularly susceptible to moisture damage. Ensure they are completely dry and consider using desiccant packets.

What NOT to Store:

Food: Food attracts pests and can easily mold, even in sealed containers.
Damp Items: Never store anything damp, including clothing, books, or other materials. This is the most common cause of mold growth in storage.
Plants: Living plants can introduce moisture and attract pests.

Regularly Inspect Your Storage

Even with careful preparation, periodic inspection is crucial. Check your storage bins at least twice a year, preferably during seasonal changes. Look for signs of moisture, musty odors, or visible mold growth. If you find any signs of mold, remove the affected items immediately and clean the storage bin thoroughly before replacing its contents.

Conclusion: Preventing Mold Requires Preparation and Vigilance

By carefully selecting your storage bins, preparing items correctly, and regularly inspecting your stored goods, you can significantly reduce the risk of mold growth. Remember, the key to preventing mold is to minimize moisture, ensure proper air circulation, and choose storage materials and practices that help you maintain a dry storage environment. Following these guidelines will protect your belongings and maintain a healthy home environment.