When you need extra storage space, choosing the right type of storage unit can make a difference in how well your things do over time. Some items can handle sitting in a standard storage unit, but there are delicate items that may be more sensitive to changes in temperature and humidity.
Climate-controlled storage provides a more consistent environment for your things that can be damaged by extreme temperatures or moisture in the air. This can be especially helpful when you plan to store your items for an extended period of time.
But what exactly should you put in a climate-controlled storage unit? There are several types of household and personal belongings that can benefit from this kind of added protection.
Furniture
Your wood or leather furniture are some of the first items that can be sensitive to any temperature and humidity changes. Over time, these changes can cause your furniture to crack, warp, fade, or even mildew.
Consider a climate-controlled storage unit for items like:
- Wooden tables, desks, and dressers
- Leather couches and chairs
- Upholstered furniture
- Mattresses and box springs
- Antique or vintage furniture
- Wooden bed frames
Before putting your furniture into storage, be sure to clean it well and make sure it is completely dry. Use furniture covers to help protect the surfaces and let the air circulate around it.
Electronics
Electronics are another category of belongings that can benefit from being in a more stable storage environment. Extreme temperatures and moisture in the air can be hard on the sensitive electronic components.
A climate-controlled unit can be a good choice for storing:
- Televisions
- Computers and monitors
- Gaming systems
- Cameras
- Speakers and audio equipment
- Small electronic appliances
Whenever possible, try to keep your electronics in their original boxes or use sturdy containers with a lot of padding. Also, remove all of the batteries from devices that will be stored for an extended period of time.
Important Documents and Books
Paper products may not seem like something that needs special storage, but moisture and temperature changes can cause a lot of problems over time. Important papers could be damaged and books and photographs could develop mildew or become really brittle.
Climate-controlled storage can be useful for:
- Tax records
- Business documents
- Family records
- Books
- Photo albums
- School records
- Collectibles made from paper
Keep documents in sturdy boxes or containers that are protective. Even in a climate-controlled storage unit, you should avoid placing them directly on the floor of your storage unit.
Clothing and Fabrics
Things like clothing, bedding, and curtains can absorb moisture and odors when they are stored in less controlled conditions. This is especially important if you plan to leave your belongings in storage for a long period of time as well.
Before storing clothing and fabric items:
- Wash and completely dry everything
- Use plastic storage bins
- Avoid packing items while they are damp
- Keep clothing off the floor
- Leave enough space around boxes for easy access
Seasonal clothing is a great example of something that can benefit from climate-controlled storage. Instead of filling your closets with winter coats or summer clothes that you aren't currently using, you can keep them safely stored until you need them again.
Artwork and Keepsakes
Some of the items we store have more sentimental value than monetary value. Children's artwork, wedding albums, collectibles, and other keepsakes can be difficult or sometimes even impossible to replace if they become damaged.
These particular items are often very sensitive to moisture and significant temperature changes. A climate-controlled storage unit can give you a more suitable place to keep them when you don't have enough room at home. For especially important keepsakes, you should consider using archival-quality boxes or protective sleeves that are specifically designed for long-term storage.
Musical Instruments and Collectibles
Musical instruments and collectibles are also something that can benefit from climate-controlled storage. Wood, paper, fabric, and other materials that make up these items can react to changes in temperature and humidity.
This usually includes:
- Guitars and other wooden instruments
- Vinyl records
- Collectible toys
- Trading cards
- Antiques
- Artwork
- Memorabilia
If an item is valuable or difficult to replace, climate-controlled storage is definitely worth considering.
Do You Need Climate-Controlled Storage?
Not everything you own necessarily needs climate control. Durable items like outdoor equipment, tools, plastic containers, and other weather-resistant belongings may be perfectly suitable for standard storage.
When deciding what type of unit you need, think about:
- What materials your belongings are made from
- How valuable or difficult they would be to replace
- How long you plan to store them
- Whether they are sensitive to heat, cold, or moisture
- The conditions where you live
If you're unsure, it is always better to ask about your storage options before choosing a unit.
Whether you're moving, downsizing, making room at home, or you just need somewhere to keep belongings you aren't currently using, storage units Idaho Falls can give you the extra space you need.
