Manufacturer · Fashion & Home Accessories
Storing thread correctly means a dark or shaded, cool and dry place, moderate humidity and protection from dust. Cones are kept in closed boxes or in the original packaging, away from windows, radiators and chemicals. This way the thread keeps its strength, colour and smooth running, and the machines run without breakages.
Why storing thread matters
Thread is a thin, highly tensioned strand with a large surface area relative to its volume. Any change in it – fading, drying out, soiling – is reflected directly in the seam. Poorly stored thread breaks more often, sheds lint, loses its sheen and can take colour unevenly. In a garment factory this means stopping the line, re-sewing and complaints.
Thread's main enemies
Light
UV rays break down fibres and dyes. Cones left on a shelf facing a window fade on the surface within weeks, and the outer layers lose strength. Cotton, viscose and polyamide are more sensitive than polyester, but no thread is completely immune.
Heat and dryness
High temperatures and very dry air dry out natural fibres and the lubricant applied to the thread during manufacture. Dried-out thread is more brittle, friction in the needle increases and it breaks. Do not store threads next to radiators, heating pipes, dryers or in lofts that heat up in summer.
Moisture
Excessive humidity leads to mould and unpleasant odours in cotton threads and to deformation of cardboard tubes. Damp thread can stain light fabrics.
Dust and lint
Dust sticks to the thread and is carried into the machine and the seam. On light threads the soiling is visible, and on all threads dust increases friction.
Recommended conditions for storing thread
| Factor | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Light | no direct sunlight; closed cabinets or boxes |
| Temperature | room temperature, without sudden changes; away from heating |
| Humidity | moderate – around 50–65% relative humidity |
| Dust | original packaging, lidded boxes or plastic bags |
| Chemicals | separate from solvents, paints and cleaning products |
Arrangement in the warehouse
- By colour card and number – cones in the same order as in the manufacturer's catalogue make stocktaking easier.
- By type and thickness – separate zones for sewing, overlock, embroidery and technical threads.
- Upright – cones stand on their base, not on their side, so the winding does not deform.
- Label facing out – the article, colour and batch are visible without taking the cone out.
- No stacking – heavy cartons on top crush the cones underneath.
Rotation: first in, first out
The FIFO principle is the simplest way to stop thread ageing in the warehouse. The new delivery goes to the back, the old one goes to the line first. Write the date of receipt on the carton. Pay particular attention to rarely used colours – they stay on the shelf the longest.
Dye lots
Threads are dyed in lots, and there can be small differences in shade between them. In storage, keep lots separate and do not mix cones from different lots in the same model if the seam is visible. The lot number is printed on the cone label – record it on the work sheet.
Storage in the garment factory
Cones on the machines also need care. During long breaks – holidays, model changeovers – remove them and put them away. Cover the machines at the end of the shift so dust does not build up. Do not leave half-empty cones on the windowsill and do not pile them in open cartons next to the tables.
How to recognise aged thread
- the surface layer is lighter than the inner layers;
- the thread breaks easily when pulled by hand;
- it sheds more lint and dust when unwound;
- it has an unpleasant smell or stains;
- the cardboard tube is deformed and the winding loose.
If you notice these signs, do not use the thread for structural seams. Sometimes it is enough to unwind and discard the first few metres of faded thread.
Special threads
Metallic embroidery threads must be protected from moisture so the metal foil does not tarnish. Water-soluble threads are stored in airtight bags, because they absorb moisture from the air. Elastic threads with a rubber core age faster and are best used within a reasonable time. Cotton threads are the most sensitive to moisture and mould.
Stock planning
The best way to stop thread ageing is not to hold excess quantities. Plan orders according to the production plan and keep a buffer for the most used colours. Order rare colours closer to the time of sewing.
Checklist for the thread store
- closed cabinets or boxes, no direct light;
- stable room temperature and moderate humidity;
- arrangement by type, thickness and colour number;
- date of receipt and lot number recorded;
- rotation on the first-in, first-out principle;
- regular checks of rarely used colours;
- separate storage of metallic, water-soluble and elastic threads.
Set aside a few minutes once a month to review the store. This way you will catch faded or damaged cones in time and plan the next order according to actual stock.
Wholesale threads from Polkom
Polkom supplies garment factories and brands all over Europe with threads from large stock, which lets you order more often and in smaller quantities without building up a surplus. Send us your plan for the season via our contact page – we will help you plan colours and quantities.
