Would you wear a shirt that’s covered in mold or mildew? Neither would I! Unfortunately, though, this is an all-too-common problem that occurs when clothes are stored for long periods at a time. You may neatly fold your garments, placing them in the spare bedroom until the summer arrives. But when you remove them, you notice they are covered in mold and mildew. So, how do you protect your clothes from this phenomenon?
The Yucky Science Behind Mold
Mold and mildew thrive in wet, moist environments. When the relative humidity increases beyond 50% in a particular environment, it becomes susceptible to mold. Mold spores will attach themselves to anything they can find, reproducing and spreading.
In addition to being unsightly, mold-covered clothes may pose a real threat to your health. Exposure to mold can cause respiratory infections and allergic reactions, so it’s important that you take precautions to eliminate mold from your home.
Dry Clothes Before Hanging Them
Wait until your clothes have fully dried before hanging them up in your closet. Some people may hang up clothes while they are still damp, assuming it causes no harm. But damp clothes will raise the humidity in your closet, creating an ideal environment in which mold and mildew can thrive. So let your cloths dry for an extra 5 minutes or so just to be on the safe side.
Hang Bags of Charcoal
How can this help to protect your clothes from mold and mildew? Well, charcoal works to absorb moisture. By hanging bags of charcoal in your closet, it will reduce the humidity levels so mold less likely to form. Remember, though, you need to place the charcoal in a “breathable” bag, such as a burlap sack. If you place it inside of a plastic bag, it’s going to be able to absorb the moisture.
Use a Dehumidifier
Of course, the most effective way to protect your clothes from mold and mildew is to install a dehumidifier in your closet. Dehumidifiers live up to their namesake by removing moisture from the surrounding environment, essentially lowering the relative humidity. A standard dehumidifier features a tank in which water is stored. Once the tank is full, it must be emptied and replaced in order for the dehumidifier to continue working.