There are a few things to consider when investing in a storage “system” for the yarn stash that is currently occupying every nook and cranny in your living quarters. Regardless of whether you have 5 skeins or 500 skeins of yarn there are some requirements for the storage of said yarn that remain constant. These are breathability, pest deterrents, space required to house storage containers, and ease of identifying contents.
Breathability and Protection
Fibers, especially animal fibers, will mildew. In my opinion, this is the top concern for storing fibers of any kind. This not only applies to yarn, but to fabrics as well. If your fibers are damaged when you go to use them your investment, sometimes a significant one, is lost.
An appropriate storage container should be able to be tightly sealed, with most of the air removed. A plastic zipper bag is a good example of this type of storage system. Or, alternatively, breathable in some fashion, such as a basket, or chest. The least desirable condition for fibers is a warm, humid one which encourages growth of mildew. If using a basket or bucket type of system, it is a good idea to cover them in some fashion to keep dust from collecting on the yarn.
Protection from sunlight is also a consideration. If you choose to use clear containers, be aware of where you are storing them. Make sure they are not stored in front of or near a window where they would be exposed to sunlight. Just a tiny bit of sunlight on the same spot every day can quickly bleach out fibers and make them much less desirable for use.
Pest Deterrent
Natural fibers, including animal and plant, are all attractive to pests. Moths are one of the knitter’s most dreaded creatures and one that has sent this knitter in a frenzy, with a fly swatter, running throughout the house screaming “Quick, close the door to my sewing room!!”. Regardless of which storage container you choose for your yarn, it is a good idea to place some type of pest deterrent in each container.
Cedar planks or balls in each container help to keep the buggers away. Small bars of soap (unwrapped), like you would get at a hotel, work also. Do not use moth balls, they make your yarn smell terrible! Additionally, whatever you use to deter pests, make sure that it is not oil based or contains some chemical that will damage your fibers in the process.
Types of Containers and how much space is needed to “store” them
The type of container you ultimately choose will be determined by how much space you have to “store” the containers and how you are going to separate the various skeins of yarn.
