Investing in a self-storage unit is a great solution for when you need extra space to keep your belongings safe, secure, and well-organized. To keep your items in good condition, though, you must take steps to prevent dirt, pests, and moisture from accumulating in your unit over time.
Moisture can be especially detrimental to your belongings, as it can cause toxic mold growth that renders them unusable. If you’re getting ready to move some of your possessions into storage, don’t forget to take these safety measures to keep them in good, dry condition.
Thoroughly Dry Your Items Before Storing
You’ll want to give most of the items you plan to store a thorough cleaning before putting them away. To be safe, finish the cleaning process a few days before you plan to move everything, so they are completely dry before placing them in your unit. Even a slightly damp piece of clothing or upholstery can put the contents of your entire unit at risk for damage.
Organize Your Unit Carefully
Arrange your storage unit to optimize airflow and prevent moisture buildup. The best way to do this is to store items so that they are not directly on the floor or up against the wall. Use wood pallets to keep the boxes in a normal, upright position and leave space between them.
Check Humidity Levels Regularly
Ideal indoor humidity levels range from 30% to 50%. Use a hygrometer to routinely measure the humidity in your storage unit, ensuring it doesn’t exceed 50%. While you do this, you should also visually inspect your unit for mold growth, holes, cracks, or leaks that could lead to increased humidity and moisture.
Make Use of Desiccants
Desiccants are substances that absorb water. Common ones you can use in your storage unit include silica gel, salt, rice, and even charcoal. You can buy desiccants in packets (like the ones that come in shoe boxes) or on their own and simply put them in a Ziploc bag. Place these bags in your storage boxes with your belongings and throughout your unit to help prevent moisture accumulation.
At Sentry Mini-Storage, we offer you secure 24/7 access to your self-storage unit so you can check on and care for your items whenever you need to. We also have climate-controlled units available if you don’t want to deal with the hassle of moisture prevention on your own.
For more information about our self-storage solutions, give us a call at (727)845-1529 today. We’ll be happy to find you the perfect unit to fit your needs!