What Can I Store In A Non Climate-controlled Storage: Tips and Tricks

Oleh Chelsea VonRueden June 04, 2023 Post a Comment

If you're looking for a place to store your belongings, but don't want to spend the extra money on climate-controlled storage, you may be wondering what items are safe to store in a non-climate controlled storage unit. While these units can be more affordable, they do come with their own set of limitations that you'll need to keep in mind when deciding what to store.

In this article, we'll explore some tips and tricks for storing items in a non-climate controlled storage unit.

Understanding Non-Climate Controlled Storage Units

Before we dive into what you can store in a non-climate controlled storage unit, it's important to understand what these units are and how they differ from climate-controlled units.

Non-climate controlled units are typically less expensive than climate-controlled units because they don't have heating or cooling systems installed. This means that the temperature inside the unit will fluctuate with the weather outside. Additionally, non-climate controlled units may not have humidity control, which can lead to issues with mold and mildew.

Now that we have a basic understanding of non-climate controlled storage units, let's take a look at what you can safely store in them.

Clothing

Clothing is one of the most commonly stored items in non-climate controlled storage units. Clothing is generally durable and can withstand changes in temperature and humidity. However, it's important to properly clean and pack your clothing before storing it. Make sure everything is completely dry to prevent mildew growth, and use plastic bins or vacuum-sealed bags to protect your clothing from pests.

Furniture

Furniture can also be stored in non-climate controlled units, but there are some things to keep in mind. Wood furniture can crack and warp if exposed to extreme temperatures, so it's important to wrap it in blankets or other protective coverings. Additionally, leather furniture can dry out and crack if stored in a unit that is too hot or dry.

Books and Paperwork

Books and paperwork are also commonly stored in non-climate controlled units. However, it's important to protect them from humidity and pests. Use plastic bins with tight-fitting lids to keep moisture out, and consider using desiccant packets to absorb any excess moisture. Additionally, make sure to wrap your books and paperwork in acid-free paper to prevent yellowing or damage over time.

Electronics

Electronics are often sensitive to temperature changes, so storing them in a non-climate controlled unit can be risky. If you do decide to store electronics, make sure they are packed securely and protected from dust and debris. Consider wrapping them in blankets or bubble wrap for extra protection.

Musical Instruments

Musical instruments can also be stored in non-climate controlled units, but it's important to take extra precautions. Extreme temperatures can cause the wood of stringed instruments to warp, and high humidity can cause brass instruments to corrode. Make sure to properly clean and pack your instruments, and consider investing in a dehumidifier to protect them from excess moisture.

Appliances

Appliances can also be stored in non-climate controlled units, but it's important to properly prepare them before storage. Make sure to thoroughly clean and dry your appliances before storing them. Additionally, remove any batteries or other components that could leak or corrode over time.

Sports Equipment

Sports equipment can also be stored in non-climate controlled units, but it's important to properly clean and pack it before storage. Make sure everything is completely dry to prevent mildew growth, and use plastic bins or vacuum-sealed bags to protect your equipment from pests.

Holiday Decorations

Holiday decorations are often stored in non-climate controlled units, but it's important to properly pack them away to protect them from moisture and pests. Use plastic bins with tight-fitting lids to keep moisture out, and consider using desiccant packets to absorb any excess moisture.

Metal Items

Metal items can also be stored in non-climate controlled units, but it's important to protect them from rust and corrosion. Make sure everything is completely dry before storing, and consider using a rust-inhibiting spray or coating on your metal items.

Artwork

Artwork can be stored in non-climate controlled units, but it's important to properly pack and protect it before storage. Wrap paintings in acid-free paper and bubble wrap, and use crates or other protective coverings for sculptures or other artwork.

Collectibles

Collectibles can also be stored in non-climate controlled units, but it's important to take extra precautions to protect them from damage. Consider investing in a lockable display case or cabinet to protect your collectibles from dust and debris.

Garden Supplies

Garden supplies can be stored in non-climate controlled units, but it's important to properly clean and pack them before storage. Make sure everything is completely dry, and consider using plastic bins or vacuum-sealed bags to protect your supplies from pests.

Pet Supplies

Pet supplies can also be stored in non-climate controlled units, but it's important to properly clean and pack them before storage. Make sure everything is completely dry, and consider using plastic bins or vacuum-sealed bags to protect your supplies from pests.

Tools

Tools can be stored in non-climate controlled units, but it's important to properly clean and prepare them before storage. Make sure everything is completely dry, and consider using a rust-inhibiting spray or coating on your metal tools.

Miscellaneous Items

There are many other items that can be stored in non-climate controlled units, such as toys, camping gear, and household items. However, it's important to properly clean and pack everything before storage, and take extra precautions to protect items that are sensitive to temperature or humidity changes.

Non-climate controlled storage units can be a great option for storing your belongings, but it's important to understand their limitations and take extra precautions to protect your items. By properly cleaning and packing your belongings, investing in protective coverings, and using desiccant packets or dehumidifiers as needed, you can safely store almost anything in a non-climate controlled unit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Can I store my car in a non-climate controlled unit?

A1. Yes, you can store your car in a non-climate controlled unit, but it's important to make sure it's properly prepared for storage. Make sure to change the oil and top off all fluids, inflate the tires, and use a car cover to protect it from dust and debris.

Q2. Can I store food in a non-climate controlled unit?

A2. No, you should never store food in a non-climate controlled unit. The fluctuating temperatures and lack of control over moisture levels can cause food to spoil or attract pests.

Q3. Can I store delicate fabrics in a non-climate controlled unit?

A3. Delicate fabrics such as silk or wool may not fare well in a non-climate controlled unit. These fabrics can be damaged by fluctuations in temperature and humidity, so it's best to store them in a climate-controlled unit.

Q4. Can I store antiques in a non-climate controlled unit?

A4. Antiques can be stored in a non-climate controlled unit, but you'll need to take extra precautions to protect them from damage. Consider investing in a lockable display case or cabinet to protect your antiques from dust and debris.

Q5. Can I store my RV in a non-climate controlled unit?

A5. Yes, you can store your RV in a non-climate controlled unit, but it's important to properly prepare it for storage. Make sure to clean and empty all tanks, remove all food and perishable items, and use a cover to protect it from dust and debris.

Q6. Can I store my boat in a non-climate controlled unit?

A6. Yes, you can store your boat in a non-climate controlled unit, but it's important to properly prepare it for storage. Make sure to clean and dry the interior, flush the engine with antifreeze, and use a cover to protect it from dust and debris.

Q7. Can I store musical instruments in a non-climate controlled unit?

A7. Yes, you can store musical instruments in a non-climate controlled unit, but you'll need to take extra precautions to protect them from damage. Extreme temperatures and humidity can cause damage to stringed and brass instruments, so make sure to properly clean and pack them, and consider investing in a dehumidifier to protect them from excess moisture.

Q8. Can I store my artwork in a non-climate controlled unit?

A8. Yes, you can store artwork in a non-climate controlled unit, but you'll need to take extra precautions to protect it from damage. Make sure to wrap paintings in acid-free paper and bubble wrap, and use crates or other protective coverings for sculptures or other artwork.

Q9. Can I store my wine collection in a non-climate controlled unit?

A9. No, you should never store wine in a non-climate controlled unit. Fluctuations in temperature and humidity can cause wine to spoil or age prematurely.

Q10. Can I store my firearms in a non-climate controlled unit?

A10. Yes, you can store firearms in a non-climate controlled unit, but you'll need to take extra precautions to protect them from damage. Make sure to properly clean and oil your firearms before storing them, and invest in a lockable gun safe to prevent theft.