How to prevent mildew and insect bite damage

Straw is a widely appreciated traditional art and craft, made from locally available grasses and everyday items. It is used to create a variety of useful and decorative objects such as baskets, fruit boxes, cup sets, matting, hats, slippers, pillows, and rugs. Some artisans use colored grasses in advance to weave intricate patterns, while others apply printed or dyed designs to enhance the visual appeal. These products are not only affordable and practical but also elegant and warm in appearance. However, natural damage to straw products mainly occurs due to two main factors: mold and insect infestation. If proper measures are taken to control these issues, the preservation and longevity of straw goods can be significantly improved. Mold is primarily caused by microbial activity. If the materials are properly sterilized and dried before storage, the risk of mold can be minimized. In other words, maintaining the quality of the raw grass and controlling temperature and humidity are key steps in preventing mold growth. Mold development typically occurs in three stages: initial mold, active mold, and rot. During the first stage, the hay begins to generate heat, and the grass stems lose their original color, with visible mold growth and a slight warmth. As it progresses to the second stage, the stems become musty and smelly. Finally, in the third stage, the material starts to decay completely. To prevent mold, the raw grass should be thoroughly dried before being stored. Any moldy parts, roots, or weeds should be removed, and the grass should be neatly bundled. The storage area must be dry and well-ventilated, and the stacking height should not be too high to avoid excessive pressure and internal heat buildup. For certain types of grass, like mats and yellow grass, plastic sheets may be used to protect them from drying out too quickly. In regions with high humidity, especially during the rainy season, it’s important to turn the stacks regularly, dry the hay, and remove any moldy portions. It’s best to use the stored hay within the same year rather than keeping it for too long. Before weaving, any weeding, wetting, or paste treatment should be followed by immediate drying and collection. Finished products should be packaged promptly, using moisture-proof paper or waxing inside the boxes for added protection. Additionally, fumigation, chemical bleaching, or boiling can be used to treat both raw materials and finished products to prevent mold.

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