Toxicologists Warn Homeowners To Get Rid Of This Toxic Christmas Item
Most of us have a box of Christmas decorations tucked somewhere out of sight, waiting all year for December to come. But toxicologists say some of these decorations could be making us sick without us realizing it. Moldy Christmas decorations are turning up in attics, basements, and garages, and they’re far more common than people think. The good news is that once you know what to look for, you can keep your holiday season both festive and safe.
Why Moldy Decorations Are A Hidden Health Hazard
Holiday decorations often live in damp, dark environments for 11 months of the year, which makes them the perfect breeding ground for mold. When you bring decorations up from storage and start unpacking, spores from the mold can spread through the air. For some people, this means musty smells and allergy symptoms. For others, it can trigger asthma attacks or more serious reactions. The decorations themselves may look normal, but they could still be carrying mold, which is why experts say you should inspect them closely.
The First Signs Your Décor Might Be Contaminated
You don’t always need a microscope to spot the first signs of trouble. A musty smell when you open the box is usually the first warning sign. Check for fuzzy patches on fabric ornaments, wreaths, stockings, and tree skirts. Even artificial greenery, like garlands, faux trees, and swags, can grow mold if stored in damp areas. If anything feels damp or has discolored spots, it’s safer to toss it than to risk bringing it indoors.
Why Fabric And Natural Items Are Most At Risk
Anything made of fabric, felt, feathers, or natural materials absorbs moisture easily. Once that happens, it doesn’t take much for mold to settle in and start growing. Handmade ornaments, vintage décor, and sentimental items tend to be the most vulnerable. It’s frustrating when a keepsake is affected, but bringing mold inside year after year can cause far more issues for your health and your home than replacing a few pieces.
How To Safely Remove Moldy Decorations From Your Home
If you find moldy items, handle them carefully. Take them outside, if possible, to avoid spreading spores inside of your home. Make sure to wear gloves and a mask to help protect yourself while you sort through what can be saved. Most moldy fabric items aren’t worth cleaning and should just be thrown out, but hard plastic decorations can sometimes be wiped with a disinfectant and dried completely. When in doubt, err on the side of caution and throw out anything questionable.
Cleaning The Storage Space Before You Put Things Back
It’s not just the decorations. Mold on items often comes from the places where we store them. Before packing everything away, check the storage area for moisture and mildew. Run a dehumidifier in basements or garages if needed, before you store your decorations. Wipe down shelves, vacuum dark corners, and look for leaks or condensation. Cleaning up your storage space now stops mold from returning next year. A little prep makes a big difference.
Smart Ways To Store Decorations To Prevent Mold
Swap old cardboard boxes for airtight plastic bins. Cardboard absorbs moisture and becomes a mold magnet, while sealed bins protect your decorations from humidity and moisture. You can even add silica gel packets to absorb any stray moisture. Keep bins off the floor and away from exterior walls where condensation can form easily. Label the containers so you don’t have to rummage through them later because less digging means less exposure to dust and spores.
When To Replace Decorations Instead Of Cleaning Them
Some items just aren’t worth the effort or the health risk. Anything soft and porous, but visibly moldy should be replaced, no matter how much sentimental value it has. This might feel wasteful, but think of it as making room for new memories. Luckily, most holiday items are inexpensive to replace, and investing in better storage now helps protect your new pieces from the same fate.
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No one wants to think about mold during the holidays, but a few minutes of inspection can keep your home safe and your celebrations worry free. Clearing out moldy decorations isn’t just good housekeeping, it’s part of keeping your home safe and healthy. With better storage and a little extra awareness, you can enjoy your favorite traditions without any unwanted surprises hiding in the holiday boxes.
Bliss Donahue-Power
