Using Plastic Bins for Storage

[Wilbur P]

I'm planning to use large plastic storage bins for my yarn and finished items. I need something strong and stackable, and I definitely need a lot of capacity.

Someone told me that you cannot safely store yarn in the plastic crates for long periods of time. Is this true? Has anyone had a problem?

[tweed]

I've stored mine in plastic storage totes for YEARS...I haven't noticed any problem. Did they say what might happen?

[Wilbur P]

They said that they smelled moldy. If that's the case I wonder if you could put drier tissues in the box to prevent the problem.

[Carol Ann]

Never had a problem storing my yarns in plastic totes.  No odors or anything over the long term.  The dryer sheets would add a lovely scent for storage but be cautious that the concentrated "oils" from the dryer tissues do not absorb into the yarns (come in such close contact) that they might stain or discolor your yarns.   

[Sharon]

I have used plastic bins for storing yarn and not had a problem.  The only problem I had was a bin that had a funny smell to it.  So I didn't use it for storing yarn because the smell could get into the yarn.

[LaraKN]

I have tons of yarn in plastic storage bins from walmart.  If it is in there a long time, I notice it tends to smell a little like the plastic, not a very strong smell, but if you stick your nose in it you can smell it.  It usually airs out by the time i am done with the project, & usually I wash/rince items even if I am not blocking them and that definitely takes care of it.  Dryer sheets is a great idea, especially if you can put them somewhere they aren't in direct contact with yarn.  (I'm going to have to go home and put dryer sheets in all my bins now).

I would think mold would result from putting something damp in a bin, or storing a bin that wasn't sealled in a damp area.  My bins are inexpensive and certainly not 100% airtight.  I might worry if I stored them in a damp place, for a long period, but so far so good.

[Lisa]

I keep yarn stored in the guest bedroom chest of drawers and  dresser drawers also I have scrap yarn stored in plastic bag with zippers the kind comforters /sheets comes in and I have not noticed a smell from the plastic bags.

[Wilbur P]

Thanks for all of your comments. I feel safe to use them now! I think I will use the dryer sheets.

[sumarla]

I have used plastic shoe boxes for over a year now and they don't have any smells at all, and they hold plenty or yarn and are great for stacking to