Once warm weather takes hold, it's time to put those extra winter blankets away for a while. Storing the blankets improperly may lead to a few unpleasant surprises, such as mildew or musty odors. Instead, opt for breathable storage solutions that keep the blankets as fresh as they are after they've just been cleaned.
Washing the blankets first helps ensure they'll be ready to use when you need them months down the road; besides, no one wants to put a dirty blanket back on the bed.
While a plastic bag may seem like the ideal way to keep dust and debris off the blankets while they're stored, in reality, that plastic could be problematic. A completely airtight bag may hold in moisture during humid weather, which means the blankets become damp and potentially mildewy or musty. Instead, opt for blanket-storage bags with breathable cotton sides; the cotton allows fresh air to flow through while keeping the blankets protected from dust and insects.
If you are unable to find blanket storage bags, wrap the blankets in a cotton sheet before putting them in a closet or clean storage area.
Store those clean blankets in a trunk at the foot of the bed or in a spare drawer if you don't have room in a closet. Fold the blankets neatly and place wrap them in a cotton sheet to help keep them completely clean, even within the chest or drawer.
Avoid storing the winter blankets in a damp, dank place such as a basement, as moisture from the air will find its way onto the blankets, causing potential mold and mildew. Even a closet may be prone to moisture during humid conditions if the door isn't opened frequently. Fortunately, there are a few tricks you can use to keep mildew at bay: