Storage tips: The big storage box mistake causing mould and mildew in your home - 9Honey

By Rachael Gavin| 8 hours ago

A storage expert has warned against one of the most popular products for storing our belongings in.

Karl Graham from Click Storage isn't a fan of plastic boxes, mainly because of the potential for items in a plastic box to get damaged.

Plastic containers can develop condensation depending on the conditions the box is placed in, for example a humid environment, and what is placed inside, especially if they are airtight.

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"While this can protect contents from external moisture, it also traps any existing moisture inside," Graham told Express.

That means if any clothes or paper are a little damp the moisture will stay in the box and can result in mould.

Instead, fabric storage baskets and boxes can be a good option as fabric is more breathable, you could also choose wooden or wicker boxes and baskets.

"Whatever storage solution you decide to use, just be sure to weigh the pros and cons of each. Whether it's aesthetics, health concerns, or environmental impact, the list of drawbacks of storing items in plastic boxes is too long for it to be the ideal choice," Graham said.

However, there are benefits to plastic storage boxes so if you do want to use them there are things you can do to help prevent mould.

One is to include a moisture absorbing product inside the box to help soak up any moisture that might be in the box.

You should also make sure the items placed in the storage box are completely dry before storing so that that does not contribute to mould growth.

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Air flow is an important factor in preventing mould so storing boxes with some space between the boxes and the wall and storing them up off the floor (in case of flooding or leaks) can help.

With clothes you may also find it better to store them in vacuum-sealed bags and if needed, place those in boxes.

Finally, checking your stored belongings every few weeks or even monthly means you can address any mildew or mould issues quickly before they escalate.

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