nikki128

Would it be safe to store fabric scraps in brown bags temporarily maybe for a month or 2? I know the fabric needs air and they will be losely packed. Thoughts?

Bree123

I do that. As long as you're sure the fabric isn't going to be exposed to moisture, the paper bags work. A clean laundry bag is another option. For that matter, though, I don't worry too much about short term storage in sealed plastic bags since they have the advantage of keeping dust mites & mold out. Plastic does damage cotton in the long run, but I've never heard about any problems from storing in plastic for a month or so.

nikki128

Thanks Bree, I sorted fabric by color and need to think about storage options so figured brown bags might work while I think

lynndianne

I didn't know that plastic would harm the fabric.....I'll have to empty out my 4 dozen tubs and 60 shoe boxes....Guess I'll have to just store the fabric on shelves. Thanks for the info.

nikki128

I was so happy a minute ago thought I sorted all my scraps started cleaning up and found 2 more tubs! I am overwhelmed and have not bought fabric since October. Guess I better start sewing !

Prism99

Hard plastic totes are not damaging. Soft plastic bags out gas and can damage in the long term. Hard plastic totes are not airtight and, as long as you don't live in a very humid climate, are fine for fabric. The one thing you don't want to do is trap moisture inside the plastic for years; that will encourage mold.

tessagin

Save those little silica packets you get from medicine bottles (otc usually). You can put those into the plastic bags and they help control the moisture. You can purchase them on line also but you'd be surprised how many you have around the house.

Material Witness

You also might consider pillowcases.

carolynjo

Lynnediane, you do not have to worry about storing in plastic bins if you punch a few tiny holes around the top of the bin. My fabric has been stored in plastic bins for 16 years with aforementioned holed. I have seen no damage and no bugs, etc.

klswift

It's not that the plastic 'hurts' the fabric. It's that the fabric can't breathe. You'll be ok if you just open the containers every once in awhile and let the fabric get some fresh air. The only time I would really worry is if you live in a fairly humid area. Then I would probably keep the lids a bit ajar. Also, putting a cheapy dryer sheet in with the fabric helps to keep the moisture at bay and keep little critters out.