Damp cupboards can be a big problem if not promptly taken care of. Not only do they invite unhealthy mildew and molds, but they also destroy the content of your cupboards. Also, damp cupboards promote bacteria growth which can cause diseases.
So how can you prevent your cupboards from getting damp? Read the nine effective tips given below to avoid dampness in your cupboards.
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Hack #1: Look out for any water seepage source
Checking the water seepage is the first step toward preventing damp cupboards or wardrobes. Look out for any sources of water leakage through the roof, walls, and floor. If you find any leakage that may probably lead to damp cupboards, promptly fix it.
Hack #2: Ensure proper airflow
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It is another critical step for avoiding dampness. You can leave the doors open to let air flow inside the wardrobes. One hack is to loosely pack the things to allow proper air ventilation. It will prevent molds and damp cupboards.
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And if we talk about shoe cabinets, damp shoes can get smelly. So you can have louvers on the cabinet doors to avoid the smell.
Hack #3: Remove molds if present in your cupboard
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If you notice the growth of any molds or mildew, promptly remove them using a solution of water and vinegar in a ratio of 1:1. Additionally, you can pour small amounts of concentrated vinegar on the surface of your closet to kill any spores if present.
Hack #4: Declutter and regularly clean your cupboard
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How many times have your clothes fallen out of the cupboard whenever you tried to open it? It is a common occurrence for people who have cluttered and disorganized closets.
Make it a habit to declutter your closet weekly or once in 15 days. It has two benefits; you’ll always have an organized cupboard and will get what you want in a minute. Secondly, you will never complain about having less space as everything will be kept neatly. Donate or reuse items that you do not wear. And clean all the visible dust.
Hack #5: Regulate the humidity levels of your home
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Maintain the humidity levels of your home by allowing proper ventilation. Open all the doors and windows to let sunlight come in. Sunlight is a natural disinfectant that dries the surfaces and kills microorganisms.
Remember to keep your exhaust fan on while cooking for ventilation. Also, you should keep your bathroom ventilators open to allow the inflow of fresh air.
Hack #6: Cover the shelves with absorbent papers
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Lining your shelves with absorbent papers is a clever hack to avoid dampness. Alternatively, you can use newspaper and reusable plastic sheets to cover the walls of your closet. They act as the first control against humidity.
Hack #7: Remove rugs and mats from damp areas
Avoid placing rugs and mats in areas that are likely to get wet, like the bathroom, foyers, and balconies. Though these rugs dry quickly, they leave the place damp for a long time. This increases the humidity levels of your home.
Hack #8: Keep a stock of desiccants
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You can place desiccants in your closets to avoid dampness. Various desiccants are available in the market, like silica gel, mothball, camphor, etc., that work wonders to keep humidity at bay. You can also use neem leaves to absorb moisture from your cupboards.
Hack #9: Do not store wet items in the cupboard
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Avoid keeping damp clothes or any other wet stuff like towels in your wardrobes. It is because dampness easily transfers from one material to another in a closed space. Throwing the wet towel on the bed is common practice in Indian houses, especially among kids and teenagers. So take care while hanging clothes in the closet, and dry them thoroughly before keeping them in your cupboard. Also, your shoes need to be air-dried before keeping them in.
And your wardrobes require special attention during the rainy season. Dry all your belongings properly before placing them in wardrobes. And if you accidentally spill any liquid, be prompt to clean them to avoid cupboard dampness.
These were 9 smart hacks to prevent any dampness in your wardrobes. As they say, ‘prevention is better than cure, so better take precautions and be a little smarter with your closets than to damage your belongings.
