I unpacked decorations from storage and they’re coated in a strange white film. What happened?

made from or contain plastic materials that can emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs) over time, particularly in warm or confined storage spaces. This process, known as off-gassing, can result in a phenomenon called ‘bloom,’ where a white, powdery film settles on surfaces.

Bloom is more pronounced in newer plastic items as they tend to release more VOCs. Over time, as the off-gassing diminishes, the rate of bloom decreases. Proper ventilation and using containers that allow air circulation can help minimize the effects of off-gassing on your holiday decor.