DIY Moisture Absorbers for Closets

Published: Aug 23, 2011
Updated: Nov 20, 2021
1 minute read

Step 1

Lay a 10-inch square of thin fabric, such as cotton muslin, on your work surface. The fabric must have a loose weave, but not so loose that the moisture-absorber particles can fall through the fabric.

Step 2

Place ½ to ¾ cup of a desiccant in the center of the fabric square. For the desiccant, use silica crystals, available from craft stores, or activated alumina, available from industrial chemical suppliers.

Step 3

Gather the edges of the fabric together to form a bag securing the desiccant material inside. Tie the bag closed with a length of twine or a rubber band.

Step 4

Hang the bag from the closet rod. Alternatively, place the bag on the floor or on a shelf inside the closet.

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Step 5

Open the bag and dry the desiccant crystals every two to four weeks, depending on how quickly they absorb moisture. Place the crystals on a baking sheet and dry them in a 300- to 350-degree F oven for two to three hours. Place them back in the bag and return them to the closet after drying.

Tips

Some varieties of silica gel change color when they become moist, providing an accurate indication of when they must be dried.

Warnings

Don't place wet or damp items, such as bathing suits or towels, in enclosed closets.

Jenny Harrington

Jenny Harrington has been a freelance writer since 2006. Her published articles have appeared in various print and online publications. Previously, she owned her own business, selling handmade items online, wholesale and at crafts fairs.…

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