Storage Is Where Most Latex Damage Happens
Chlorinated latex is durable and low-maintenance in wear — but improper storage is the most common reason garments develop cracks, sticky patches, or discolouration over time. The good news is that storing latex correctly is simple once you know what to avoid.
The Golden Rules of Latex Storage
1. Always Store Clean and Completely Dry
This is the single most important rule. Never put a latex garment away damp or unwashed. Moisture trapped against the surface encourages mould, and body oils left on the material will degrade it over time. Rinse, dry thoroughly, and then store.
2. Keep It Away from Light
UV light — both sunlight and fluorescent lighting — causes latex to oxidise and discolour. Even brief regular exposure adds up. Store your garments in a dark location: a drawer, a wardrobe, or an opaque bag or box.
3. Keep It Away from Heat
Heat accelerates the degradation of latex. Avoid storing near radiators, in hot cars, in attics, or anywhere that gets warm in summer. A cool, stable room temperature is ideal.
4. Avoid Contact with Metals — Especially Copper, Bronze, and Brass
Metal ions from copper-based metals cause latex to turn brown and become brittle. This means:
- Don't store latex in contact with metal hangers, clasps, or fixtures
- Keep latex away from jewellery boxes or metal storage containers
- Use plastic or wooden hangers if hanging garments
5. Store Flat or Loosely Folded — Not Compressed
Latex stored under pressure — squashed under other items or tightly folded for long periods — can develop permanent creases or stick to itself. Store garments loosely, either laid flat or hung on a smooth padded hanger.
6. Separate Garments
Latex can stick to itself if stored in direct contact for extended periods, especially in warm conditions. Separate individual pieces with a layer of tissue paper, a soft cloth, or a breathable fabric bag. Avoid plastic bags, which trap moisture.
Long-Term Storage Tips
If you're storing a garment for a season or longer:
- Clean and dry it thoroughly before storing
- Lightly dust the exterior with unscented talcum powder to prevent any surface sticking
- Wrap loosely in acid-free tissue paper
- Store in a cool, dark, dry place — a breathable fabric bag or a box with a lid works well
- Check on it every few months and re-dust if needed
What About Silicone Polish?
Some people apply a light coat of silicone polish before long-term storage to protect the surface. This is fine for the exterior, but make sure the garment is completely dry first and don't over-apply — a thin, even coat is all that's needed.
Signs Your Storage Conditions Need Improving
- Sticky patches — usually caused by heat or contact with oils
- Brown or yellow discolouration — often caused by metal contact or UV exposure
- Surface cracking — typically caused by dryness, heat, or age
- Mould spots — caused by storing damp
Caught early, most of these issues can be addressed. But with the right storage habits, you'll avoid them entirely. A well-cared-for chlorinated latex garment can last for many years — and look just as good as the day it arrived.