<p>DDs are going through all the detritus of the years, many items were already stored in the basement and often the stuffed animals and other soft goods are smelling really musty and unpleasant.</p>
<p>The old storage items were in cardboard boxes, now every one is using rubbermaid containers, but are their any other hints to avoid things getting damp & smelling musty?</p>
<p>What about throwing a couple of those small packages of silica gel into each plastic container before closing it up? We always save the ones that come with new shoes or other items.</p>
<p>Must is mold. Items need to be as clean as they can be so that there is no fuel for the mold. And they need to be dry and stay dry with no moisture. Those are the secrets. The plastic containers can keep moisture out, but will retain moisture in, so be sure everything is as dry as it can be. Stuffed animal might need a wash and dry before putting away, as would doll clothes, baby items, etc.</p>
<p>One DD tossed a sock ful of rice into each tub, in hopes that might absorb any moisture. I am wondering how to prevent moisture from accumulating in the winter?</p>
<p>How timely this thread is; I’ve spent the last few days clearing out and reorganizing my basement. What I really want to save I’ve been transferring from cardboard boxes to plastic boxes.</p>
<p>After being in the basement for so many days the dampness is really noticeable. I purchased a dehumidifier and will attach a hose so that it can drain directly into the floor drain. Love the idea of putting some of those gel packs into the boxes. I have never thought to save them but there are places online to order them, or silica gel can be purchased at craft stores and some of the big discount stores.</p>
<p>Thanks for that idea, JEM!</p>