How should I store hay so it stays dry and mould-free?

Short answer: keep it somewhere cool, dark and ventilated in a breathable box or cloth bag — never sealed in plastic.

1. Breathable containers — cardboard boxes, cotton bags or vented bins let moisture escape.

2. Avoid heat and damp — away from bathrooms, kitchens, sunny windows and the floor.

3. Humid seasons — use a dehumidifier in the room, but keep desiccants away from the hay.

4. Buy smaller batches — about 1–2 months' supply keeps it fragrant.

5. Discard if — you see mould spots, smell mustiness, or find clumps or dark patches.