How to Keep Stored Fabric Smelling Fresh
- 1). Wash the fabric before you store it. Dirt and body oils can eventually make it smell unpleasant and/or damage the fabric. Add 1 cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle to freshen the fabric and eliminate any preexisting odors.
- 2). Dry the fabric, if recommended for the material, with scented dryer sheets to give it a pleasant, clean smell. If the weather is sunny, hang the fabric outside to air-dry. It is important that the fabric is completely dry before being stored. Any residual moisture can lead to mold and mildew growth.
- 3). Hang garments in fabric garment bags or store them in airtight containers with a couple of used scented dryer sheets or bars of scented soaps in their packaging (so as not to leave residue). Fresh sprigs of lavender and cedar chips in the container also keeps your fabric smelling pleasant.
- 4). Store the fabric in a cool dry place. Check on the fabric every month or so to make sure that it's still maintaining a fresh smell and that there has been no damage the container in which the fabric is stored. Moisture and pests alike can damage fabric if they find a way into the container.
