What Not to Store in Non Climate-Controlled Storage

Published on 7/17/2024
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What Not to Store in Non Climate-Controlled Storage

When it comes to storage solutions, not all units are created equal. One of the most important distinctions is between climate-controlled and non climate-controlled storage. While the latter can be a cost-effective choice, it's crucial to know what not to store in non climate-controlled storage to prevent damage and preserve the integrity of your belongings. Here, we explore the types of items that should never be kept in a non climate-controlled environment.

Why Climate Control Matters

Non climate-controlled storage units are subject to the external weather conditions. This means they can experience extreme temperatures, high humidity, and significant temperature fluctuations. These conditions can be detrimental to certain items, leading to warping, mold, mildew, and other forms of damage.

What Not to Store in Non Climate-Controlled Storage

1. Wooden Furniture

Wooden furniture can be highly sensitive to changes in temperature and humidity. Excessive moisture can cause wood to swell, warp, or crack, while extreme dryness can lead to splitting. If you must store wooden items, ensure they are well-protected and consider using a climate-controlled unit.

2. Electronics

Electronics are particularly vulnerable to moisture and temperature extremes. High humidity can cause internal components to rust or short-circuit, while heat can damage delicate circuits. Always store electronics in a climate-controlled environment to ensure they remain in good working condition.

3. Artwork and Photographs

Paintings, prints, and photographs can suffer irreversible damage in non climate-controlled storage. Humidity can cause mold growth, and temperature fluctuations can lead to fading, warping, or deterioration of paper and canvas. These valuable and often irreplaceable items should always be stored in climate-controlled units.

4. Musical Instruments

Musical instruments, especially those made of wood, such as pianos, guitars, and violins, are highly susceptible to damage from humidity and temperature changes. Non climate-controlled storage can cause wood to warp, glue joints to loosen, and metal parts to rust. Protect your instruments by choosing climate-controlled storage.

5. Leather Goods

Leather items, such as furniture, clothing, and accessories, can dry out and crack or become moldy and discolored when exposed to fluctuating temperatures and humidity. To maintain the quality of your leather goods, it's essential to store them in a controlled environment.

6. Important Documents

Paper documents, such as legal papers, financial records, and personal letters, can be damaged by moisture, leading to mold growth, ink smudging, and paper degradation. For valuable and sensitive documents, climate-controlled storage is a must to ensure their preservation.

7. Antiques and Collectibles

Antiques and collectibles often have significant monetary and sentimental value. These items can be very sensitive to environmental changes, and improper storage can lead to their devaluation. Whether it's antique furniture, vintage toys, or rare collectibles, climate-controlled storage is the safest option.

8. Clothing and Fabrics

Storing clothing and fabrics in non climate-controlled units can result in mold, mildew, and pest infestations. Moisture and temperature changes can also cause fabrics to deteriorate and discolor. For long-term storage, a climate-controlled environment will keep your textiles safe and sound.

9. Household Appliances

Appliances contain metal components that can rust and electronic parts that can fail due to moisture and temperature changes. Refrigerators, washing machines, and other appliances should be stored in a climate-controlled unit to prevent damage and ensure they function properly when needed.

10. Medications and Medical Supplies

Medications and certain medical supplies can become ineffective or dangerous if stored in non climate-controlled environments. Heat and moisture can alter their chemical composition, making them unsafe for use. Always store these items in a temperature-regulated space.

Conclusion

Choosing the right storage unit for your belongings is crucial for their longevity and condition. Knowing what not to store in non climate-controlled storage can save you from the heartbreak and financial loss of damaged items. For sensitive, valuable, or irreplaceable belongings, investing in a climate-controlled storage unit is the best decision you can make.

For more storage tips and solutions, visit TGIFortMorgan.com. We offer a variety of storage options to suit your needs, ensuring your items remain safe and secure.