Essentials for Storing in Non Climate-Controlled Units
Published: 14 Jul, 2023
Last Updated: 12 Jul, 2023
Are you wondering what can be stored in a non-climate-controlled storage unit? This is a common inquiry, particularly for those hoping to free up space in their homes or store things long haul. Non-climate-controlled units offer an affordable and convenient solution, but it’s crucial to understand which items can withstand fluctuations in temperature and humidity.
In this blog post, we will delve into the specifics of what can be safely kept in non-climate controlled storage. We’ll also discuss which items should not be stored under such conditions due to their sensitivity to extreme temperatures.
Beyond that, we’ll provide tips on how you can protect your belongings from temperature changes and high humidity levels inherent in these types of storage units. Lastly, if your items need more protection than a non climate-controlled space provides, we’ll explore some climate-controlled options available for you.
Table of Contents:
- What Can Be Stored in a Non Climate-Controlled Storage Unit?
- What Not to Store in a Non Climate-Controlled Storage Unit
- How to Protect Your Items from Temperature and Humidity Changes
- Are There Any Other Tips for Storing Items in a Non Climate-Controlled Storage Unit?
- What If I Need More Protection for My Items?
- Need Extra Protection for Your Stuff?
- FAQs in Relation to What Can I Store in a Non Climate-Controlled Storage
- Conclusion
What Can Be Stored in a Non Climate-Controlled Storage Unit?
Planning to rent a storage unit? Know what can survive in non climate-controlled units. These spaces lack heating or cooling systems, so temperature and humidity levels fluctuate based on the weather.
A climate-controlled storage refers to a storage with temperature and humidity controls. A non climate-controlled storage unit is perfect for items that aren’t sensitive to temperature or humidity changes. Examples include:
- Furniture: Metal tables, plastic chairs, and non-wooden furniture can handle varying temperatures.
- Boxes: Cardboard boxes filled with non-perishable items like books or dishes do well in these environments.
- Clothing: Synthetic clothes handle changing climates better than natural fibers. So you can store clothes in a non climate-controlled storage.
- Garden Tools: Your garden tools, like shovels and lawnmowers, are built to endure outdoor conditions anyway.
In addition to these items, many people store vehicles, such as cars and boats during off-seasons. Just remember, leather seats or wooden parts may suffer damage over time due to extreme temperatures and moisture fluctuations within the unit.
Tips for Safely Storing Items
To keep your belongings safe in a non climate-controlled environment, follow these tips:
- Pack properly: Use sturdy boxes instead of plastic bags to prevent moisture trapping and mold growth. Protect fragile items with bubble wrap or packing paper.
- Elevate your belongings: Use pallets to keep your stuff off the floor and prevent water damage from minor flooding incidents.
- Maintain cleanliness: Ensure all items going into storage are clean to avoid mold growth.
Remember, even with careful preparation, there’s always a risk when storing valuable possessions outside controlled environments. Consider appropriate insurance coverage in case of unexpected events. source
What Not to Store in a Non Climate-Controlled Storage Unit
Not all items are suited for a non climate-controlled storage unit. Fluctuations in temperature and humidity can cause irreversible damage to certain possessions.
Electronics
Keep your electronics away from non climate-controlled storage units. Temperature and humidity variations can cause damage to circuitry, such as corrosion or electric shorts.
Musical Instruments
Don’t let your instruments lose their tune. Fluctuating temperatures and high humidity can warp them.
Photographs & Artwork
Protect your memories and valuable artwork. Extreme heat, cold, or dampness can cause fading, sticking, or mold growth.
Fine Wood Furniture & Antiques
Don’t let your furniture crack, warp, or rot. Varying temperatures and moisture content can cause damage.
Tips for Storing Sensitive Items:
- Avoid storing items directly on the floor; use pallets or shelving units instead.
- Cover your belongings with breathable fabric covers, not plastic, to prevent moisture buildup.
- Secure delicate items with bubble wrap before packing them into boxes.
- Add silica gel packets to absorb excess moisture in boxes with delicate items.
Avoid storing sentimental, expensive, irreplaceable, or environmentally sensitive items in non climate-controlled storage units. If you must, take extra precautions. Alternatively, consider renting climate-controlled storage units to protect your valuables year-round.
How to Protect Your Items from Temperature and Humidity Changes?
If you’re storing your stuff in a non climate-controlled unit, here’s how to keep them safe:
Use Plastic Containers
Seal moisture out by using plastic containers with tight lids. No soggy surprises.
Wrap Delicate Items
Give fragile items some love by wrapping them in bubble wrap or packing paper. They’ll thank you later.
Add Desiccant Packs
Fight humidity with desiccant packs. They suck up moisture like a vacuum cleaner.
Avoid Storing Directly On The Floor
Keep your stuff dry by raising it off the floor. Wooden pallets are like little elevators for your belongings.
Maintain Regular Checks
Don’t forget about your stored items. Check up on your stored items periodically to ensure they remain in good condition.
Remember, some items need extra TLC. Electronics, instruments, and artwork prefer a climate-controlled environment. Better safe than sorry.
If you’re still worried, consider renting a climate-controlled unit. It’s like a spa for your stuff, keeping them cozy all year round.
4. Are There Any Other Tips for Storing Items in a Non Climate-Controlled Storage Unit?
Indeed, there are. Beyond the basic steps of packing and protecting your items properly, there are several additional tips that can help ensure your belongings stay safe and undamaged in a non climate-controlled storage unit.
Label Everything
The first tip is to label all of your boxes. It may not be apparent, yet this is an advance that numerous individuals neglect to take. By clearly labeling each box, you’ll save time and frustration when you need to find something specific. No more opening every box just to locate one item – instead, go straight to the correctly labeled box.
Maintain Good Air Circulation
The second tip is about how you arrange your boxes within the storage unit. It’s important for ease of access and to maintain good air circulation around your stored items. Leave some space between the walls of the storage unit and your boxes or furniture. This prevents moisture build-up, which could lead to mold growth or damage caused by dampness over time. For additional details on avoiding moisture in storage units, take a look at this article.
Routinely Check Your Stored Items
Last but not least: Make it a habit to periodically check on your stored items. Even if everything was packed perfectly at first, changes in temperature or humidity levels might still affect some materials over time – especially sensitive ones like wood or certain fabrics. A quick routine inspection every few months will allow you to catch any potential issues early before they become major problems down the line.
5. What If I Need More Protection for My Items?
If after considering these factors you feel that a non-climate controlled environment isn’t sufficient protection for certain valuable possessions, consider opting for climate-controlled self-storage facilities instead.
Climate-controlled self-storage units maintain consistent temperature levels year-round, preventing extreme heat or cold from damaging sensitive goods. They also control humidity levels, ensuring no excess moisture builds up, which could otherwise cause mildew or mold growth, ruining delicate articles such as artwork or photos. These features offer optimal conditions for preserving the quality and integrity of your valued personal or business property, effectively protecting them against the elements that regular spaces cannot guarantee. So choose wisely based on your individual needs and preferences.
5. Need Extra Protection for Your Stuff?
If you’re worried about your items in a non climate-controlled storage unit, it’s time to level up to a climate-controlled unit. These units keep the perfect temperature and humidity all year round, so your stuff stays safe from extreme weather and moisture damage.
Climate-controlled units are especially great for sensitive items like electronics, artwork, antiques, instruments, or wood furniture. The controlled environment prevents warping, cracking, and other damage caused by temperature and humidity changes.
Benefits of Climate-Controlled Storage Units
- Temperature Control: These units keep a consistent temperature (around 55-85 degrees Fahrenheit), perfect for most household goods.
- Humidity Control: Say goodbye to excess moisture that leads to mold or mildew. Your clothes and upholstery will thank you.
- Dust and Pest Prevention: Climate-controlled facilities also offer better protection against dust mites and pests because they’re enclosed.
Aside from these perks, you’ll have peace of mind knowing your precious belongings are stored in optimal conditions. Just remember, this extra protection comes with an extra cost. So, consider the value of your items before deciding.
Making Your Decision
Your choice depends on what you’re storing and how long. For short-term storage of less delicate items (like plastic toys or metal tools), a standard unit will do. But for long-term storage, especially if you have valuable electronics, heirlooms, or collectibles, climate-control is worth the investment.
To make your decision easier, SEKA Moving offers temperature-controlled full-service storage solutions, giving you the flexibility you need.
FAQs in Relation to What Can I Store in a Non Climate-Controlled Storage?
What items can be stored without climate control?
Items such as metal objects, plastic furniture, garden tools, and vehicles can be safely stored in non-climate controlled units.
Can furniture be stored in non-climate controlled?
Durable materials like wood and metal can withstand non-climate conditions, but delicate fabrics might suffer damage.
What is non-climate controlled?
Non-climate controlled storage refers to units that do not regulate temperature or humidity levels.
Can you store cleaning products in a storage unit?
No, storing hazardous materials like cleaning products is typically prohibited due to safety regulations.
Conclusion
A non climate-controlled storage unit is great for storing furniture, appliances, and seasonal clothing, but keep your electronics and artwork far, far away.
Protect your precious items from temperature and humidity changes by using plastic bins or covers for added insulation, and don’t forget to check on them regularly and keep the air flowing.
