Quick answer: Store yarn in sealed breathable bags in a cool, dark, dry place. Add cedar blocks (not mothballs) near wool and natural fibres to protect against moths.
Why it matters
Stored badly, yarn can felt, fade, get eaten by moths, or absorb moisture and go musty. Good storage keeps your stash in project-ready condition for years.
Best storage options
- Cloth zip bags: breathable, protects against moths and dust
- Clear plastic bins with lids: pest-proof and easy to see contents
- Open shelving baskets: great for yarn you use often — less protection but very accessible
- Vacuum bags: space-saving but can compress delicate fibres
How to store yarn safely
- Add cedar blocks or lavender sachets near wool and natural fibres. Replace cedar every 6 months.
- Store in a cool, dark location — light fades colour, warmth accelerates degradation.
- Avoid basements and bathrooms — moisture is damaging.
- Wind hanks into cakes before storing — hanks tangle badly if disturbed.
- Label stored yarn with fibre content, weight, and yardage.
Organising a growing stash
- Sort by weight (lace, DK, worsted, bulky) for easy project matching
- Use Ravelry's stash feature to inventory yarn digitally
- Photograph each skein before storing so you can search without unpacking