Preparing Your Items for Storage This Winter: Common Mistakes To Avoid
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November 15th, 2024
Storing your belongings through the winter can be problematic if you’re not mindful of how you’re treating your things. Without the proper care, items like clothing, furniture, and electronics can suffer significant damage as a result of cold temperatures, changes in conditions, and even pests. Taking the time to prepare your things for storage can make all the difference in keeping them in top condition until you need them again. This guide from the pros at FreeUp Storage will explain how you can invest in more storage space, including advice on how to prevent mold and more winter storage tips.
1. Starting Too Late
One of the biggest storage mistakes people make is waiting until the last minute to act. Rushed packing leads to misplaced items, poorly packed boxes, and an overall lack of organization. By starting early, you can give yourself the time to sort through your items, clean them, and carefully pack them away.
2. Not Cleaning Your Stuff
Another common mistake is neglecting to clean your belongings before they go into storage. Dirt, grime, and other residues left on belongings can worsen over time, especially when kept in storage during winter. Take the time to clean and air out everything you’re moving into your unit to ensure you exercise clean and dry storage habits. This will help keep your stuff in good condition until the next time you need to access it.
3. Not Knowing How To Prevent Mold
Mold is one of the biggest threats to your stored items, especially in cold winter storage climates. If moisture is trapped in your storage containers, it can quickly lead to destructive mold growth, so learning how to prevent mold is essential. Always start by completely drying off your items, and consider placing moisture absorbers around your things to sustain a dry storage environment.
4. Overlooking Protective Covers
Protective covers might seem like something you can do without, but they’re a crucial part of proper winter storage. Covers keep dust and dirt off your belongings, preventing any buildup that can dull finishes or fabrics. Furniture, mattresses, and clothing can benefit from being covered up if you opt for breathable materials over plastic, which can trap moisture and lead to mildew.
5. Using Poor Storage Materials
The materials you use for storing your things make a huge difference in how well your stuff holds up over time. Avoid thin plastic bags and cheap cardboard boxes, as these can tear easily and offer little protection from cold weather. Instead, invest in sturdy containers or plastic bins that will provide protection for anything you’re storing. Plus, you can easily stack these on top of each other to maximize your space.
6. Storing Things on the Floor
Placing items directly on the floor is a common mistake many people don’t always consider when renting winter storage. Cold floors can let in condensation, damaging fabrics, wood, and metal items. It also puts your things on the same level as any unwanted pests who make it inside, giving them easy access to your stuff. Elevating your belongings with metal shelving or wood pallets will give you the separation you need for dry storage.
7. Neglecting Pest Prevention
Pests seek warmth and shelter during the winter, and storage units or packed basements can be easy targets. Failing to consider pest prevention can lead to significant damage from rodents, insects, or other critters. First, ensure all items are clean and free of food residues. Plastic bins with secure lids can also help prevent pests from getting into your belongings, and traps or natural repellents can go a long way.
8. Not Renting Climate-Controlled Self Storage
Not all items fare well in the cold winter air. For fragile or sensitive items like electronics, musical instruments, and wooden furniture, renting a climate-controlled storage unit is a must. These spaces are kept within a steady range of comfortable temperatures to help prevent issues like fading, discoloration, and warping. Renting a climate-controlled storage unit is the best way to protect your things from extreme weather.
9. Rarely Visiting Your Unit
Don’t forget about your storage unit after you pack up and lock your door! Taking regular trips to visit your unit allows you to make sure everything is in good shape. By stopping by even once or twice every month, you can give yourself peace of mind that things are all right. You can also address any small issues before they get worse, saving you stress in the long run.
10. Keeping Your Storage Unit Disorganized
It’s important to keep your storage unit organized, as the stress of fighting through a messy space counteracts the convenience of renting a storage unit in the first place. When items are piled on top of each other or left lying around haphazardly, they can easily get lost or take a tumble to the floor. Taking time to arrange things logically and creating clear paths within your unit will make it easier to access your things when you need them.
Rent Secure Winter Storage From FreeUp Storage
Store your things with confidence by renting from FreeUp Storage. We operate storage facilities across the country that offer climate-controlled self storage units that come in a wide variety of sizes. Whether you’re looking for temporary storage during the winter or a year-round space, you can find it here. Find a FreeUp Storage facility near you to get started today! You can also contact us with any questions or concerns you may have.