I feel you on the charcoal bags—I gave them a shot too, and honestly, they didn't do much for me either. Maybe they're better suited for smaller spaces or something? Anyway, closets are a constant battle in my old house. I swear, humidity just loves historic homes. I've tried everything from silica gel packs to those moisture-absorbing buckets you get at hardware stores. The buckets actually helped a bit, but they're not exactly pretty to look at.
Funny you mention microfiber towels though—I switched to them last year after my sister kept nagging me about it. Turns out she was right (don't tell her I said that). Regular towels were roughing up my hair and making it frizzier than ever. Microfiber towels cut down drying time too, which is a nice bonus.
But yeah, sometimes I think humidity is just nature's way of reminding us who's boss...especially when you're dealing with an older home like mine. Keeps life interesting, I guess!
"Anyway, closets are a constant battle in my old house. I swear, humidity just loves historic homes."
You're spot on about older homes and humidity—it's a persistent issue. From an investment standpoint, I've found that improving ventilation can make a significant difference. Installing small vents or even a discreet exhaust fan in closets helps immensely. Also, consider using a dehumidifier strategically placed nearby; it's not the most elegant solution, but it does the job effectively.
You're spot on about ventilation making a difference. I tackled a similar issue in my old Victorian place—beautiful house, but man, the closets were like mini rainforests. Here's what worked for me:
First, I cleared everything out and gave the walls a good scrub with a mold-killing solution (vinegar and water works surprisingly well if you're into natural solutions). Let it dry completely—fans help speed this up.
Next, I painted the interior with a moisture-resistant primer and paint combo. It sounds tedious, but honestly, it made a noticeable difference. The paint acts as a barrier, keeping moisture from seeping into the drywall or plaster.
Then, I installed some small passive vents at the top and bottom of the closet doors. Nothing fancy—just simple louvers that blend right in. This allows air to circulate naturally without needing electricity or noisy fans.
Finally, I added moisture absorbers like silica gel packets or those hanging moisture traps you can find at hardware stores. They're cheap and easy to replace every few months.
I did try a dehumidifier at first, but honestly, it was bulky and noisy for my taste. Plus, emptying the water tank got old fast. Passive solutions ended up being more my style.
Oh, and as for frizzy hair... can't help much there, unfortunately. My hair's been losing its battle with humidity for years now. Hats have become my best friend on rainy days...
Your tips are really helpful, especially the passive vents—I hadn't considered that before. I've been dealing with a similar issue in my first renovation project (a mid-century bungalow), and mold in closets has been a persistent headache. I did try vinegar initially, but found tea tree oil diluted in water even more effective at keeping mold from returning. It smells strong at first, but the odor fades quickly enough.
One thing I've been wondering about is insulation. Did you notice if adding or upgrading insulation around your closets helped at all? I've read conflicting advice—some say proper insulation reduces condensation issues, while others argue it can trap moisture and make things worse. Haven't made up my mind yet.
As for frizzy hair, I've given up on that front too... humidity always wins. I've resorted to embracing the messy look, though friends tell me it's more "wild scientist" than "casual chic." Maybe hats are the way to go after all.
"some say proper insulation reduces condensation issues, while others argue it can trap moisture and make things worse."
I've actually found that insulation alone doesn't solve the moisture issue—it's more about airflow. Had a client swear by insulation upgrades, but without proper ventilation, his closets ended up moldier than blue cheese. Also, hats ftw... humidity laughs at hair products.
