Long-term storage solutions are incredibly helpful when you need a safe space to store your belongings for an extended period of time. Whether you’re downsizing, relocating, or simply decluttering, long-term storage solutions can provide peace of mind by keeping your items secure. However, not all items are suitable for long-term storage, and improperly storing certain belongings can lead to damage or even loss.
In this blog, we’ll explore what kinds of items should not be stored in long-term storage and why some belongings require more specialized care.
1. Perishable Food and Plants
One of the most important rules of long-term storage is to avoid storing perishable items. Foods that spoil, such as dairy products, fresh fruits, vegetables, or anything that needs refrigeration, should never be placed in storage units. These items attract pests like rodents and insects, which can cause damage not only to your food but also to other belongings in the storage unit. Additionally, the decomposition process can create unpleasant odors and harmful bacteria, making it unsafe for other stored items.
Plants also fall into this category since they require sunlight, water, and air circulation to thrive. Storing plants in a dark, enclosed space will lead to their demise within a short period. It’s best to keep plants in your home or find a caretaker while you’re away.
2. Hazardous Materials
Hazardous materials, such as chemicals, explosives, or flammable items, are typically prohibited in long-term storage facilities for safety reasons. These items pose serious risks, including fire hazards and toxic contamination. Common hazardous materials to avoid include:
- Gasoline, propane tanks, and oil
- Paint, paint thinner, and other solvents
- Pesticides or fertilizers
- Fireworks or ammunition
- Cleaning supplies with harsh chemicals
- Before renting a storage unit, check with the facility for a list of prohibited items. If you need to store equipment that contains hazardous fluids (such as lawnmowers or other machinery), make sure to drain the fuel beforehand.
3. Valuable Items and Important Documents
Although most long-term storage units are equipped with security measures, storing extremely valuable items may not be the best idea. Jewelry, fine art, rare collectibles, or irreplaceable heirlooms should be kept in a more secure environment, such as a safe deposit box or a home safe. While storage facilities do their best to ensure the safety of your belongings, theft or damage can still occur.
Additionally, important documents like birth certificates, passports, legal papers, and financial records should be stored in a secure location rather than a storage unit. These documents are often difficult or impossible to replace and may be needed on short notice, making them unsuitable for long-term storage.
4. Electronics
Electronics can be tricky to store in long-term storage due to their sensitivity to temperature and humidity. Items like televisions, computers, gaming systems, and audio equipment can become damaged if exposed to extreme temperatures, moisture, or dust over extended periods. Components can corrode, and screens can crack under fluctuating environmental conditions.
If you must store electronics, consider a climate-controlled storage unit. These units maintain a consistent temperature and humidity level, which can help protect your electronics from damage. However, even in a climate-controlled unit, it’s best to wrap electronics in anti-static covers and store them off the ground to prevent dust and moisture accumulation.
5. Items Prone to Mold and Mildew
Any items that are susceptible to mold or mildew growth should be carefully considered before placing them in long-term storage. Items like upholstered furniture, mattresses, bedding, or clothing can easily become damaged in storage if they are not properly prepared. Moisture trapped within fabrics or materials can lead to mold and mildew, which can spread to other items in the unit and ruin them.
To prevent this, make sure to clean and dry all items thoroughly before storing them. You may also want to invest in climate-controlled storage, which helps regulate humidity levels and reduces the chances of moisture buildup. Storing items in plastic bins with airtight seals can also help protect them from damp conditions.
6. Appliances
Storing appliances like refrigerators, freezers, washing machines, and dishwashers in long-term storage can be a bit challenging. If not prepared properly, these items can harbor mold, mildew, and even rust. Any leftover moisture in the appliance can create an ideal environment for bacteria growth, and mechanical parts may become damaged over time.
Before placing appliances in storage, make sure they are thoroughly cleaned and completely dried. Leave the doors slightly open to allow air circulation, which will help prevent odors and moisture buildup. For an extra layer of protection, store them in climate-controlled units.
7. Temperature-Sensitive Items
Certain items require a stable environment to maintain their integrity. Temperature-sensitive items, such as wine, musical instruments, and candles, are vulnerable to extreme heat or cold. For example:
- Wine: Fluctuating temperatures can cause wine to expand and contract, ruining the flavor and quality.
- Musical instruments: Stringed instruments, in particular, are sensitive to humidity and temperature changes, which can cause wood to warp or crack.
- Candles: High temperatures can cause candles to melt, while extreme cold can cause them to crack.
- If you must store temperature-sensitive items, ensure they are placed in a climate-controlled storage unit to protect them from environmental damage.
8. Sentimental Items
While it may seem convenient to store sentimental items like family photos, scrapbooks, or childhood keepsakes in long-term storage, these items often carry irreplaceable value. Exposure to fluctuating temperatures, humidity, and light over long periods can cause these items to fade, warp, or deteriorate. Photographs, in particular, are prone to damage from moisture and heat.
For items of high sentimental value, consider storing them in a more controlled environment, such as your home or a climate-controlled safe. You may also want to digitize important photos and documents to preserve them.
Final Words
Long-term storage solutions are a fantastic solution for freeing up space while keeping your belongings safe, but it’s important to know what items are not suitable for extended storage periods. Perishable goods, hazardous materials, valuable documents, electronics, mold-prone items, temperature-sensitive items, and sentimental belongings should either be stored in specialized conditions or kept out of long-term storage entirely.
If you’re unsure whether an item is suitable for long-term storage, it’s always best to consult the storage facility for guidance. By taking proper precautions and understanding the limitations of long-term storage solutions, you can ensure that your belongings remain safe, secure, and in good condition.
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