Self-Storage - Which Items Need to be Kept in Climate-Controlled Storage?

When exploring self-storage options, there are several very important considerations to take into account before making your decision. For instance, the length of time you plan to keep items in storage, the temperature and humidity of the local area, and the value of those items. While it can be tempting to cut costs and store all your possessions in one place, there are certain fragile items that may require climate-controlled storage. 

Climate-controlled storage units are kept between 50 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit ensure that the following items are not damaged during storage. 

Wooden or Leather Furniture

Both wooden and leather furniture react negatively to changes in temperature. Wood contracts and expands as temperatures vary from hot to cold, and this means your wooden furniture is at risk of damage if left for too long in a standard storage unit. The same applies to leather furniture. Too much moisture caused by temperature changes can discolor leather furniture and even cause mildew. 

Photos and Artwork

Those treasured photos and pieces of artwork are also susceptible to the climate outside. UV can penetrate standard storage units and cause photos and artwork to change color, damaging them irreparably. 

Electronics

In areas with extreme cold and heat, mechanical parts in appliances can crack or rust. Condensation forms inside appliances after a particularly cold night, and this can cause damage.

Clothing

Storing clothes in plastic storage containers can help fight off mildew, but if your clothes are stored for an extended period of time, your best chance of keeping them mildew and mold free is to opt for climate-controlled storage. 

Business Documents

Paper fades, becomes discolored and can even dissolve in fluctuating temperatures, due to the exposure to moisture. 

Collectibles

Collectibles such as stamps, comics, and coins can all be ruined by extreme temperatures and humidity. Coins will oxidize, stamps will fade and curl, and comics will fade and lose their color.

Wine

Wine needs a consistently cool temperature, otherwise it could spoil. Fluctuating temperatures will accelerate the ageing process of your wine, reducing its quality and giving it a metallic taste. 

Though climate-controlled self-storage units are more costly than standard units, they are worth the investment if you are storing valuable or delicate items. In extreme temperatures, items can crack, warp or become discolored over time. Self-storage is growing increasingly popular in Australia, so you shouldn't have a problem finding a self-storage provider in your area. Once you find one, they will help you to decide what is best for you based on your items and storage time.