When putting your items into self-storage, you’ll be faced with making the decision between choosing a climate controlled unit, or a non-climate controlled unit. While a non-climate controlled facility may be a cheaper alternative in some cases – there are a number of items that are simply unsuitable for storing there.
In this article, we’ll be highlighting a number of key items that are best stored in a climate-controlled unit to keep them safe and minimise the risk of damage.
1. Antiques and Family Heirlooms
Objects that you would like to preserve for future generations or that have significant sentimental value, such as needlework, newspaper clippings, photographs, and vintage furniture, should be stored in a climate-controlled space.
This is because the risk of mould contamination increases when exposed to fluctuating temperatures and uncontrolled humidity.
However, if items are deeply sentimental to you, be aware that you can never completely foolproof your storage unit. Some things are best kept at home.
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2. Anything Made of Paper
Paper items need special care, regardless of whether they are books you love or boxes of important business documents. What’s more, records such as birth certificates and financial records should always be kept in a climate-controlled environment.
This not only helps in preserving them but also provides an added layer of security that traditional drive-up storage facilities may lack.
3. Plastic, Wax, and Vinyl
Materials such as plastic, wax, and vinyl can be particularly vulnerable to heat damage. If stored in a non-climate-controlled area, DVDs, CDs, records, and candles can be ruined if they come into contact with extreme heats.
Climate control may be worth considering if you want to guarantee you’ll be able to preserve these materials in a range of temperatures.
4. Furniture and Electronics
A constant change in temperature and humidity can cause significant damage to furniture made of wood, metal, and fabric, so more valuable items will benefit from a unit with a controlled temperature.
Electronics are even more vulnerable; they can incur substantial damage in a short period of time if not stored in a controlled environment.
5. Art and Musical Instruments
Both original artworks and musical instruments require a stable environment to maintain their integrity.
High temperatures and humidity can cause oil paints to run and instruments to warp, making climate control crucial for these items. Again, if these are sentimental or irreplaceable items, you should carefully consider if storage really is the best place for them.
6. Medical Supplies and Cosmetics
Medical supplies and cosmetics are highly sensitive to environmental changes. Extreme temperatures and humidity can render medical supplies ineffective and cause cosmetics to spoil.
These items must be kept in a climate-controlled unit to ensure they remain usable.
7. Wine
Wine requires specific storage conditions to maintain its quality and flavour. Temperature fluctuations and high humidity can spoil wine, causing it to age prematurely or develop an off taste.
A climate-controlled storage unit ensures that wine is kept at a stable temperature, preserving its quality and value. Be aware, however, that many storage facilities will have strict rules on storing food and drink, so check to make sure you’re complying with terms and conditions.
8. Collectibles (Stamps, Coins, Comic Books, etc.)
Collectibles such as stamps, coins, and comic books can lose significant value if they’re not stored properly. Stamps can stick together or fade, coins can tarnish or corrode, and comic books can yellow and become brittle – much like other paper goods mentioned above.
Climate-controlled storage provides the consistent environment needed to maintain the condition and value of these items while you keep them in storage – whether it’s to build your collection or await a sale.
9. Makeup and Toiletries
Makeup and toiletries are susceptible to spoilage and separation when exposed to extreme temperatures and humidity, so are best stored in a climate controlled environment.
Extreme heat can cause makeup to melt and separate, while toiletries can become unusable. Climate-controlled storage ensures that these items remain effective and safe to use – although be aware that most toiletries and cosmetic products do have an expiry date, so avoid storing them for so long that the products spoil anyway!
10. Sports Equipment
Sports equipment, particularly items with leather components like bicycles with leather seats, can suffer in non-climate-controlled storage.
Leather can crack and mould, while other materials can warp or degrade. Climate control helps maintain the quality and usability of sports equipment, ensuring it’s ready for use when needed.
Wherever your items are stored, make sure you have the right self-storage policy in place to keep your items safe and secure.
