Long-Term Storage of Horse Blankets - WWYD?

[idonea]

I’m taking a break from horse ownership for the first time in close to 20 years. My two ponies passed away last year and I’ve just sold the new pony that I found I just wasn’t ready for. With three ponies all approximately the same size, I’ve accumulated a nice collection of horse blankets. When I’m ready to purchase again, I know that I’m going to get something around the same size, so I’ve decided to keep them (that and the fact that selling/shipping blankets is such a hassle!!).

So comes the question, what have you found to be the best option for storage? They will be kept in my home, so I’m looking for best options for compact storage, as well as tips for keeping them away from mold, pests, smells, etc.

[high_hat]

Vacuum bags will take care of most of your concerns. They should be properly cleaned before being stored and then stored in a climate controlled area. If you have rodents or bugs then put them in an enclosed trunk or the like.

[SonnysMom]

I would have them professionally cleaned and repaired before storing them. The pros seem to be able to get them tied up nice and neatly and compressed a bit. I store mine in plastic storage totes but I am normally only storing them for the summer. Mine get stored in the basement. My basement is dry since I run a dehumidifier.

[happilyretired]

Agree with previous posters re having them professionally cleaned – preferably by an outfit with experience with horse blankets. Then store in airtight heavy duty bags or totes. Storing in an attic probably ok even if not climate controlled as long as there isn’t excessive moisture.

[clanter]

Some of our Baker blankets are from the 1950s. We rarely use the heavy blankets since moving from northern Kentucky so they remain folded up in the bottom of the tack trucks, none are stored in plastic. Never noticed any deterioration in any.

But I would agree with the other posters to have the blankets professionally cleaned, packaged and then placed away in a cool dark place

[MissAriel]

If it were me, I would take them to a professional blanket service to be cleaned and repaired as needed, then stored in a sealed vacuum bag.

[paintedpony]

I use large vacuum bags, and love them. I am not able to fold blankets into the pretty square that fits nicely into a trunk. The vacuum bag is very forgiving, and no matter your folding skill, you are left with a nice compact package. LOL, put the trunk where you want it, then place the blankets inside. It will be heavy.

[Standard_Bread]

Container Dri (basically really big desiccant packets) can help if you live in a place where moisture is a concern.

[idonea]

Thank you everyone for the tip on the vacuum sealed bags! That’s genius, and just what I’ll need. Fortunately, most of the blankets have already been professionally cleaned and repaired (at quite a pretty penny!). I’ll be sure to get the others cleaned prior to sealing them up and I’ll likely store in a big plastic bin in one of our closets.

[merrygoround]

Having Rambos, and washing with Rambo soap, I just store in plastic tote boxes in a high dry spot.

[ElementFarm]

Mine get professionally cleaned and then folded neatly and put in Sterilite or Rubbermaid tubs. They store well for months or years or decades.