What makes clothes that are kept for too long without use develop that distinct “stored” odor?

Question

That distinct scent on clothes that haven’t been worn in a couple of years or more.

Same with fabrics on homes or cars, such as curtains and carpets.

In: 479

Answer 1

For clothing, it’s dust mites and bacteria. Want a pro tip from someone who does costumes for a local theatre group? If you are storing something for the long term, get a spray bottle and fill it with cheap vodka. Then spray everything you plan to store. Don’t “soak” it, just a misting spray. Keeps the odor at bay, and doesn’t reek like mothballs.