What Items Need Climate-Controlled Storage?
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February 8th, 2023
If you’re new to renting a storage unit, you may not be familiar with climate-controlled options. Climate-controlled storage spaces monitor the temperature and humidity of the unit. The benefits are many; they safeguard your belongings from experiencing extreme temperature swings, provide better air ventilation and filtration, decrease the odds for mold and mildew, and, overall, protect your items from getting too hot, cold or wet.
Climate-controlled spaces are not always necessary, but they are the best option for items that are expensive, fragile and/or valuable to you. One simple way to decide whether or not something should go into a climate-controlled unit is by answering this question: Would you store it in your garage or shed long-term? If not, then you probably want to invest in renting a climate-controlled unit.
If you’re still uncertain, below is a list of items we’ve compiled that usually require climate-control for their overall longevity:
Photographs, Memorabilia and Paper Documents
This may seem obvious, but paper can become fragile over time. Photo paper can decay as well, as the layers can separate over time. The best option for any personal keepsake made out of paper is to place it inside of an archival box within a climate-controlled space.
Musical Instruments
Instruments like guitars and pianos need to be tuned regularly, even when they are sitting inside of your home. Put them in a storage unit without climate-control, and you might see some serious damage done. This rule applies for most instruments, though. If you aren’t sure whether or not your instrument needs climate control, call a music store that specializes in the one you own.
Media (Vinyl Records, Cassettes, DVDs and CDs)
What goes around comes around—and it’s so true when it comes to media. Vinyls are back and better than ever! If you want to be able to play your favorite tunes after storing them, you’ll want to protect them in a climate-controlled environment. Otherwise, they can become warped and damaged.
Paintings and Artwork
When it comes to art, high temperatures and humidity can wreak havoc. Whether you’re storing paintings, woodwork or other mediums—you’ll want to keep it somewhere where it’ll be kept dry and within a good temperature range.
Cosmetics
Skincare, haircare and makeup can be finicky items. It’s important that they do not melt or separate; so, either too much heat or too much cold can damage your goods beyond use. It’s best to keep them at a steady temperature, not too high or cold.
Wine
A climate-controlled storage space is best for wine because it does best at stable temperature and humidity levels. You don’t want to see your fine wine age too quickly or lose its intended aroma. If you’re keeping special wines, don’t let them become subject to losing their value rather than maintaining or increasing it.
Electronics and Appliances
Preventing moisture build up in electronics is very important for them to be able to function properly—or at all—when they come out of storage. Appliances also do not fare well in wide fluctuations of temperature. Because these items are generally expensive, it’s best practice to store them in a climate-control environment for their longevity.
Furniture and Antiques
To avoid warping or damaging the structure of your furniture, it’s best to store it in a climate-controlled space. Certain upholsteries, leather and textiles also need specialized care. So, make sure you research the best types of covers for each item also: linen, cotton, etc.
While this list is not exhaustive, it is certainly a great starting point as you consider whether or not you need a climate-controlled storage space. If you have any further questions regarding the items you’re planning to store and whether or not you need a specific type of unit, please contact us today. We’d be glad to help answer you questions!