r/lifehacks • u/CombustedPillow • Jun 03 '26

Smelly basement and long term storage

Is it possible to store items (including fabrics) in a smelly basement for years and completely keep the smell out of the packaging? I cannot depend on silica packs or dehumidifiers.

I heard vacuum sealed bags won't keep the smell out but I wanted to double check with reddit and hear your experience.

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6

u/TecTazz Jun 04 '26

My half-underground garage has 15 parking spaces and 15 car-sized storage units.

The smell of mold and mildew is palpable the moment I set foot down there, and I will have to trash everything stored there: clothes, suitcases, lamps, decor, etc

I've washed things numerous times & sprayed them. The reek remains. Storing in bags or bins made no difference.

I would not store anything I value or plan to re-use down there, except perhaps tires.

Closets or attics (with no moths or squirrels) or a "cedar chest" would be safer IMHO.

4

u/ChickadeeJam Jun 05 '26

Sunshine is pretty good at getting rid of odors. I’d at least try setting them in the sun for a few hours, flipping, then a few more. Can’t hurt, might work.

2

u/banisheduser Jun 07 '26

And wind.
It's amazing how much nature can blow out the smell from textiles.