Understanding Storage A Little Better

If you need to keep your belongings in a storage unit for the long term, it might be best to rent a climate-controlled unit if your belongings have to endure cold winter or hot summer temperatures. Plus, a climate-controlled unit may offer better protection against bugs and mold. Whether you have a climate-controlled unit or a regular self-storage unit, you may want to check your things every few months so you can catch problems if they develop. Here are five things to watch for.

1. Signs Of Insects

A storage unit is dark and quiet for long periods of time, so it's perfect for spiders and other insects to hide in. You probably don't like the idea of spiders getting in your boxes or other insects causing damage, so check for the pests when you visit your storage unit. You can even leave out insect traps that catch bugs so you can monitor for bug problems and know when you need to take action. You may want to sprinkle diatomaceous earth around the unit to help control insect pests.

2. Indications Of Rodent Activity

If you visit your storage shed and see gnaw marks on your things or smell a bad odor, you may need to talk to the facility manager about rodents so they can hunt down the entry point and seal it so rodents stay out. You don't want to leave traps out for rodents because if you catch one, the odor of a dead mouse will permeate all your belongings. Instead, look for ways to keep the rodents out and try repellents, such as peppermint oil, to discourage mice from entering your unit.

3. Dust Accumulation

It's a good idea to keep things covered with sheets or boxes so they aren't exposed to dust. It's easier to throw a sheet over a sofa than try to clean dust out of the fibers later. You may also want to keep cleaning supplies in the unit so you can run a duster over things you store on shelves and boxes to remove as much dust as possible.

4. Rust On Metal

Check metal belongings such as a bed frame or cast iron cookware that's easy to access. If your belongings are closed up over a humid summer, some things may start to rust. If rust is a problem, especially on expensive appliances, you may need to switch to a climate-controlled unit. You might also want to put out small tubs of desiccant to pull humidity out of the air.

5. Musty Odors

If you open your storage unit and are greeted by musty odors, there's probably mold growing somewhere. Hunt down the mildew so you can eliminate it or it might spread.

Always make sure everything you put in storage is completely dry and be careful about opening up the unit if it's pouring rain outside or you may track in moisture. Leave an odor-eliminating product in the unit so you can spray it and freshen the air every time you visit so when you pick up your things they don't smell musty. For more information, reach out to a professional who offers self-storage solutions.