Storage Tubs

A word or two about storing stuff

Clothes, toys, games, seasonal decorations - the list of goods that can be sluffed into a bin and forgotten for a year is a long one. But what about the receptacle you use? Are the giant plastic storage tubs all that superior to their predecessors, the cardboard box and plastic bag? The answer, with respect to durability, is yes. However, don't expect a high-priced plastic tub to safeguard baby clothes or important memories. You've got to know what you're doing, too.

They call it dry storage for a reason

The most important thing to remember when storing something long term is that it be dry. This is particularly true when storing things in the basement. Mold can grow with just a little bit of residual moisture, and over the course of several years any clothes you may be saving for hand-me-downs can be spotted with faint, but very visible, brown mold. This is equally true for boxes and storage tubs that boast an airtight seal. If moisture can't get in, it can't get out either.

Move over, mothball

When preparing a storage tub for long term use, consider the effectiveness of mothballs. Over a long period of time, mothballs emit low levels of chemicals that can be deadly to insects and larvae. Unfortunately, you can only rely on this if you place them in an airtight container. The choice is between poorly protected clothes that will smell slightly of mothballs or well-protected clothes that will be practically unusable because of their odor. It doesn't seem to make good sense to use mothballs anymore, since an airtight storage tub is unlikely to become infested.

Hand-me-down

If you are a parent who plans to have another child, you probably want to keep those baby clothes in a storage tub. However, pass some of them along to your favorite charity. Chances are you won't be so thrilled about recycling your older child's look. Years down the road, you'd hate to confuse baby pictures because of the navy sailor suit. Plus, gifts and a little shopping on your own will often yield enough clothes for the little one.