People in the UK have been cautioned that this problem can be tricky to spot, but there are some usual warning signs.
UK households are being urged to ‘act swiftly and decisively’ if they find a musty odour in their wardrobes, as it could be a sign of dry rot quietly ruining their favourite garments. The alert comes from clothing specialists at Messina Hembry, who explain that long-term storage, dampness, and poor ventilation can cause clothes to decay from the inside out.
Dry rot is a term typically used to describe the deterioration of fabric due to age, moisture, and lack of ventilation, which can significantly weaken the structural integrity of clothing fibres. Once dry rot takes hold, it’s crucial to act quickly and find an alternative place to store your clothes, as the fabric will become brittle and susceptible to tearing – often beyond repair.
This damage is most common in cotton, linen, and silk items stored in damp or sealed environments, such as plastic garment bags or unventilated lofts, reports Wales Online. While dry rot can occur at any time of the year, summer is particularly risky for its growth and spread, especially after a wet winter followed by a warm summer.
Dry rot thrives on moisture, warmth, and something to feed on (like wood). Some sources suggest that warm and humid conditions can accelerate its growth. Early indicators of dry rot in clothing can be quite subtle initially but grow more apparent as time passes, so households are being advised to watch for faded or discoloured areas, especially along creases and folds, alongside a musty or damp odour emanating from the wardrobe.
When touched, damaged garments may also feel fragile and break apart easily when pulled or stretched. Thankfully, there are methods to shield your wardrobe from dry rot developing, including utilising breathable coverings such as cotton or muslin, plus silica gel sachets or moisture absorbers.
Josh Hembry, the COO of second-hand clothes retailer Messina Hembry said: “Dry rot in clothes is something most people don’t notice until it’s too late, when you go to wear something and it literally crumbles in your hands.
“It’s heartbreaking when it happens to a vintage piece you’ve looked after for years – especially when it could have been avoided. We always recommend storing your most precious garments in a breathable cover, keeping them away from heat and moisture, and refolding items now and then to stop stress building along the same creases. A few simple changes can really extend the life of your clothes.”
Five tips to prevent dry rot in clothes
1. Avoid plastic bags or airtight boxes for long-term storage
Josh said: “While plastic bags and airtight containers may seem like a good way to protect clothes from dust and pests, they can actually trap moisture inside, creating a damp environment that encourages dry rot and mould to develop. Instead, choose breathable storage options that allow air to circulate around your garments, reducing the risk of fibre damage.”
2. Store garments in cool, dry, and well-ventilated areas
Temperature and humidity are crucial factors that accelerate fabric deterioration, so maintaining clothes in a cool and dry location helps preserve the fibres and prevent rot. Josh explains well-ventilated spaces allow fresh air to circulate, which prevents dampness and keeps your wardrobe smelling fresh. Avoid storing clothes in cellars, basements, attics, or cupboards that are prone to moisture build-up.
3. Wash clothes before storing to remove body oils and dirt
Natural oils from skin and perspiration, along with dirt and food stains, can speed up fabric breakdown if left on garments during storage. “Washing clothes thoroughly before putting them away helps remove these residues. This not only keeps them clean but also reduces the risk of dry rot developing over time”, Josh added.
4. Refold items regularly to prevent damage along creases
Leaving clothes folded in the same manner for extended periods can lead to fibre weakening along the crease lines. Regularly refolding items or hanging them up can help distribute stress more evenly across the fabric. “This simple habit slows down the breakdown of fibres and keeps your clothes looking their best for longer,” Josh advised.
5. Use breathable clothes covers and moisture absorbers
Josh recommends: “Breathable garment covers made from cotton or muslin protect clothes from dust while allowing air to circulate, preventing trapped moisture. Adding moisture absorbers, like silica gel packets or specialised dehumidifiers, to wardrobes or storage boxes can also help maintain an ideal environment and reduce the risk of dry rot and mildew.”
