Storing your yarn stash takes some thought to make sure your yarn is in good shape and ready to use for your next project.

Here are some tips:

• Do not store yarn in plastic bags. Yarn needs to breathe and depending on the fiber can hold up to 30% it’s weight in moisture without feeling wet. I have seen cotton yarn mold because it was stored in plastic bags in a humid climate!
• Store all yarn in a climate controlled environment, not in a damp basement or hot attic.
• Store yarn in an extra closet (hanging shoe holders work great for this) or in plastic tubs out of direct sunlight.
• Do not store yarn in baskets on rugs. Carpet beetles love to eat yarn!
• The best way to store yarn for a long period of time is to place it in old pillowcases in a closet (a linen closet is perfect!) in the main living area of your home or on open shelving out of direct sunlight.
• Do not store unlaundered garments, the buggies love them!
• Store all washed crocheted wearables folded on a closet shelf or in a dresser. Hanging garments stretches them out of shape.
• Moths like undisturbed dark places, so if you leave your crocheted garments out all year in a closet or dresser you use daily, they are less likely to take up residence!
• Cedar, lavender and other herbal remedies to prevent moths or bugs works because of the smell. If you can no longer smell the fragrance, it is not working.
• Moth balls may work, but the off-gas emitted can actually damage your yarn. If you use moth balls, make sure they do not come in direct contact with your yarn.
• Got moths?! If you see moths, throw out the offending yarn immediately! It is not worth taking any chances with the rest of your stash. Some say you can put the yarn in the freezer for a month or two to kill the moths, but that doesn’t kill any eggs that may be present. The best thing is to get rid of the yarn and thoroughly clean the area.
• It may be a bargain, but do not buy yarn at garage sales unless you know what to look for! If it smells musty or breaks when you pull on it, do not buy it! It has been stored incorrectly. And you may bring home some uninvited critters in the bargain!

Designer and Annie’s video instructor, Deb Arch stores her yarn on open shelving in her craft room.

Have you figured out a great way to store your yarn stash? Send a photo to editor@crochet-world.com so we can share it with our readers.

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