How to Protect Your Belongings from Humidity in a Storage Unit

It’s hot in here! You’ve gone up to your attic or maybe out to your backyard shed and thought, wow, should I have these items in here or should these be in a temperature controlled environment? Well, it depends. While some items do well in any temperature, many items require a climate-controlled space. 

Moisture is dangerous. It can seep in and cause massive damage to furniture, clothing, documents, electronics and more. 

Why do I need to worry about humidity when storing items? 

When moist air meets a surface that is colder, for example, the walls of your unit, condensation forms. And what does that do? Moisture creates the perfect environment for mold, mildew, rust and warping. Since you don’t see it right away, it might be too late before you notice the damage and can take action to save your items.

What items are most vulnerable to humidity damage?

• Wood furniture. It tends to absorb moisture, which can cause that dining table full of memories to warp, crack or swell.
• Clothing and fabrics. Ever left wet clothes in your washer overnight and were faced with the smell the next day? You get it. 
• Electronics. The internal components can corrode when exposed to moisture over time. No one wants a wet boombox, that’s a vintage gem!
• Documents and photographs. Paper absorbs moisture quickly and can be ruined instantly. With family heirlooms in the mix, this protection is utmost. 
• Artwork. Paint can bubble and canvas can stretch. Protecting art that will one day hang on another wall is key.
• Musical instruments. Wood instruments are extremely sensitive to humidity changes, but each one needs to be properly stored, no matter the material. 
• Leather. It can develop mold or dry out or crack when faced with moisture issues. That leather couch or jacket needs some extra protection.

If any of these items are on your storage list, humidity control should be a top priority when looking at units.

What kind of storage unit helps with humidity control? 

A climate-controlled storage unit maintains a consistent temperature and humidity level year-round, typically between 55 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. It’s snowing, it’s raining, it’s 95 degrees, no stress for your items. They are comfy and cozy. 

And it’s not just about protecting items, it’s about protecting memories, those items that may have been passed down for generations. While it would be great to keep all of those things in our home, it’s actually safer for them to be locked away in an environment that keeps them truly protected.

How can I pack items if I am worried about moisture? 

Skip the cardboard box. You are better off choosing a plastic bin with a sealed lid. We have all gone to get our holiday decorations out of the garage or shed and found a wet, soggy box. Bye bye to that ornament you made in 4th grade. 

Get items off the floor. Using pallets or shelving can help. Even if your unit is well maintained, it’s still a best practice to have items off the floor and away from any potential moisture. 

Give your items some space. You don’t want to pack your unit so tight that you don’t have any room for air to circulate. Pull boxes away from walls and leave some breathing room between them. 

Wrap items. Furniture may require special coverings. Photographs need a certain acid-free tissue paper. Once you know what you are storing, do your research on how to store them best.

Are there extra steps I can take to stop my items from getting moisture? 

There are moisture-absorbing products you can purchase, including crystals and desiccant packs. Avoid chemical heavy products like moth balls – the smell will be a permanent part of your belongings.

You should also plan to pop in to your unit and just check on things on a regular schedule. You will know if something is off due to odors or visible discoloration. 

Choose the right unit and pack smart when humidity is a concern. 

At Guardian Storage, our climate-controlled units are designed to give your belongings the stable, protected environment they deserve, whether you’re storing family heirlooms, furniture during a move, or a parent’s cherished belongings during a life transition. Our teams are always happy to help you figure out which unit is the right fit for what you’re storing. Find a Guardian Storage location near you at guardianstorage.com.