As households across the UK store away their warmer clothes for summer, around one in eight adults report having experienced moth damage to clothing, according to surveys. Experts at Pink Storage warn that simple mistakes, like storing damp or unprotected clothes, can lead to costly damage. Fortunately, a simple 5p hack using nappy sacks and bay leaves can help keep stored clothes smelling fresh while deterring moths, making seasonal storage safer and more cost-effective.
Research shows that clothing is among the most commonly damaged household items in storage. At the same time, nearly a quarter of UK adults wash clothes at 30 °C rather than hotter washes that would kill larvae, potentially increasing the vulnerability of stored garments.
Seasonal wardrobe changes are one of the most common times for clothing to be placed into storage, yet many items are packed away without the basic protections needed to keep them in good condition. According to Pink Storage, this can lead to damage that often is not discovered until months later, when it may be too late to fix.
However, Pink Storage experts say preventing these problems does not have to be expensive. A simple method using everyday household items can help keep clothes fresh and protected for months, costing as little as 5p per packed box.
The approach involves placing two scented nappy sacks inside a storage box to maintain a clean scent, alongside two bay leaves, which act as a mild natural deterrent against moths. While bay leaves will not kill moths or larvae, they can help discourage moth activity when used as part of a clean, sealed storage system. Together, this quick and effective solution helps protect clothing from odours and reduce the risk of moth damage for approximately 5p per box.
Scott Evans, CEO of Pink Storage, said, “Seasonal wardrobe changes are when we see the biggest increase in avoidable issues. Clothes are often packed away in a hurry without being properly protected. The good news is that it does not take expensive products to prevent problems. Simple, low-cost steps can make a big difference when used correctly.”
Pink Storage is encouraging households to take a more careful approach when packing away winter clothing, highlighting several practical tips:
- Use nappy sacks to keep stored clothes smelling fresh
- Add bay leaves to mildly deter moths, as part of a clean, sealed storage setup
- Store items in sealed containers to reduce exposure to damp
- Avoid overpacking boxes, which can restrict airflow
- Ensure all clothing is clean and completely dry before storing
Seasonal items such as coats, knitwear, and occasion wear are particularly at risk, as they are often stored for several seasons without being checked. Damp conditions, trapped moisture, and lack of airflow can all contribute to deterioration over time.
Pink Storage adds that while large storage solutions play an important role, it is often small, preventative measures that have the greatest impact on preserving clothing.
As more households look for practical ways to protect their belongings and avoid unnecessary costs, simple, affordable solutions like this are proving that effective storage does not have to come at a high price.
For more information on Pink Storage, please visit www.pinkstorage.co.uk
