All Brits urged to check 1 hidden spot for signs of dry rot

Househoulds all over the UK are being urged to check one area of their homes for signs of dry rot this summer. This issue can be difficult to detect but spotting it early on is really important.

Experts warn the hidden fabric fault could be quietly destroying much-loved clothes if it's found in one location: your wardrobe. The alert comes from the clothing experts at Messina Hembry, who say long-term storage, moisture, and poor ventilation are causing garments to rot from the inside out. Dry rot is a term often used to describe the breakdown of fabric caused by age, moisture and lack of ventilation, which can severely weaken the structural integrity of clothing fibres.

Once dry rot sets in, fabrics becomes brittle and prone to tearing, often beyond repair. The damage is most common in cotton, linen and silk items that are stored in damp or sealed environments, such as plastic garment bags or unventilated lofts.

Signs of dry rot in clothes can be subtle at first but become more obvious over time, so families are being told to look out for faded or discoloured patches, particularly along folds and creases, as well as a musty or damp smell coming from the wardrobe.

When handled, affected garments may also feel brittle and can even crumble easily when tugged or stretched. However, if you're worried about dry rot, there are a few ways that you can help to prevent it.

How to stop dry rot

While plastic bags and airtight containers may seem like a good way to protect clothes from dust and pests, they can actually trap moisture inside, creating a damp environment that encourages dry rot and mould to develop.

Instead, choose breathable storage options that allow air to circulate around your garments, reducing the risk of fibre damage.

As well as this, heat and humidity are key factors that speed up fabric deterioration, so keeping clothes in a cool and dry space helps preserve the fibres and prevent rot. Well-ventilated areas allow fresh air to flow, which discourages dampness and keeps your wardrobe smelling fresh.

As well as this, oils from skin and sweat, along with dirt and food stains, can speed up the breakdown of fabric if it's left on garments during storage.

Washing your clothes thoroughly before putting them away helps remove these residues. This not only keeps them clean but also reduces the risk of dry rot developing over time.

Lastly, leaving clothes folded in the same way for months or years can cause fibres to weaken along crease lines. Regularly refolding garments or hanging them up can help distribute stress more evenly across the fabric.

This simple habit slows down the breakdown of fibres and keeps your clothes looking their best for longer.