6 Tips to Control Dampness Within Wardrobes & Storage Cabinets
Here is how you can prevent the growth of mould or mildew within closed storage units
A damp and mouldy environment within a home can not only damage fabric, books, consumables or shoes that are stored inside closets but also affect our health and well-being. It is essential to to take adequate precautions to reduce the humidity inside the home so as to control the growth of bacteria and mould that thrive in damp, dark and unventilated spaces. Factors like water seepage through walls, floors or roofs from leaking pipes, rain or blocked drains can cause dampness indoors.
Here are some useful tips.
Here are some useful tips.
2. Pack dessicants
Keep silica gel pouches within wardrobes, book cabinets, shoe cabinets and drawers. Silica gel absorbs moisture that might be present within the closed storage unit and does not support any kind of fungal growth.
Keep silica gel pouches within wardrobes, book cabinets, shoe cabinets and drawers. Silica gel absorbs moisture that might be present within the closed storage unit and does not support any kind of fungal growth.
3. Ensure good air-flow
- Do not overfill the storage cabinets or pack clothes very tightly. There should be enough space for air to circulate freely. The lack of ventilation and the resultant trapped moisture in an overfilled cupboard can turn it into a breeding ground for mould.
- Consider louvred doors for the closets; this will ensure good air circulation and freshness within the closet.
4. Pack charcoal briquettes
Humidity within storage spaces produces a musty odour. To prevent the formation of unpleasant odours and humidity, pack charcoal briquettes in breathable fabric and sew them in. This is a natural alternative to control moisture, do not forget to replace the charcoal briquettes every two months.
Humidity within storage spaces produces a musty odour. To prevent the formation of unpleasant odours and humidity, pack charcoal briquettes in breathable fabric and sew them in. This is a natural alternative to control moisture, do not forget to replace the charcoal briquettes every two months.
5. Deep clean
Deep clean all the storage cabinets at least once in two months.
Deep clean all the storage cabinets at least once in two months.
- Make it a point to empty all the contents of the wardrobes or storage units and throw away the shelf paper. Wipe the dust off the shelves with a damp cloth or paper towel.
- Remove any mildew by scrubbing the affected area with a sponge dipped in a mild solution of bleach and water followed by a dry wipe.
- Place the lining paper before putting back the contents into the closet. Alternatively you can use plastic mats, because they can be washed and reused.
6. Dehumidify the home
Take these measures to reduce the moisture level within the indoors:
Read more:
7 Most Common Indoor Air Pollutants You Should Worry About
Fighting Pollution: How to Keep Your Indoor Air Clean
Tell us:
Do you have any other suggestions about how to control humidity within wardrobes or other storage cabinets? Share in the Comments section below.
Take these measures to reduce the moisture level within the indoors:
- Bring in fresh air by regularly opening all the windows and circulating fresh air around the home with fans.
- Switch on the exhaust fans of the kitchen and bathroom. This will remove the musty or mouldy air.
- Remove absorbent materials like rugs, carpets or pillows from moisture-laden areas such as bathrooms, basements or other such zones.
Read more:
7 Most Common Indoor Air Pollutants You Should Worry About
Fighting Pollution: How to Keep Your Indoor Air Clean
Tell us:
Do you have any other suggestions about how to control humidity within wardrobes or other storage cabinets? Share in the Comments section below.
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Make sure that only dry clothes, shoes or linen are stored within the cabinets. Note that if even a single item that is stored is wet or damp, it can increase the humidity level and create dampness within the wardrobe.