Avoiding Humidity Damage in a Storage Unit

Whether we like it or not, we are at the mercy of the forces of nature. This can spell bad news for those putting valuable items in storage, especially in areas where temperatures and humidity levels vary widely. We’ve provided some tips that will help ensure your stored items stay in good condition, no matter where you live or what time of year it is.

Do the garage test

Would you feel comfortable storing a particular item in your garage? If so, it will fare well in the conditions of a regular storage unit. Otherwise, take precautions (such as choosing a climate-controlled unit) to prevent any damage that could occur.

Choose climate control

Luckily, many storage facilities offer climate-controlled units. This amenity may cost you extra, but some facilities offer climate control as a standard feature. It’s your best defense against natural changes in outside conditions. SpareFoot’s search engine has a built-in option you can select to narrow your search to climate-controlled units. Use it to find a unit that suits your sizing and price needs, and book it for free today.

Keep air circulating

The best way to protect against humidity damage is to keep air from going stale. This is difficult, as your storage unit will remain closed and unattended most days out of the year. Space your items out as much as possible. If you’ve stored framed paintings or pictures, add spacers or felt pads behind the glass to prevent sticking. Don’t use sealed plastic bags, as condensation within the bags will lead to mildew. Also apply an extra layer of polish to metal items, to prevent rust. Ultimately, time tends to undo many anti-humidity efforts, which is why we recommend climate control to anyone concerned about preserving valuable possessions.

Photo courtesy of SpareMaxStorage.com