Silica gel and activated alumina are not harmful to fabrics. They can be put in small paper containers and hung with clothes or put in drawers or chests. They also can be put in pans and placed on the floor or on shelves in closets. Be sure the container or closet is closed tightly so that moisture from the outside will not seep into the area. Silica gel is blue when dry and turns pink as it absorbs water.
Calcium chloride liquefies as it absorbs water.
The liquid is corrosive and may burn clothing. Ventilate Areas Air movement, when the relative humidity is low, will dry the surfaces. Air movement might be with a fan or by opening the closet doors to permit natural ventilation. Before hanging them in the closet, dry all clothing wet from rain or perspiration. Ventilate cooking, laundering, and bathing areas since one or more gallons of water can be added to the house in one day.