When you place items into storage, you may overlook ways to ensure your items stay in their original condition through different seasons and in the event there happens to be a pest problem. Before you close your storage unit for months on end, there are ways to minimize problems.
Be Careful With Electronics
Temperature-controlled storage units are ideal if you need to store electronics, because this will prevent the storage unit from experiencing extreme temperatures. When it is not possible to find an available temperature-controlled unit, take the extra step to prevent items from becoming damaged. Remove batteries from electronic items, especially laptops and cameras. If the batteries are simple alkaline batteries, it is wise to throw them away since they can be replaced easily. Try to store lithium ion or other expensive batteries in a separate container so if they leak, they will not damage other items. If the batteries will remain in storage throughout the colder months, nestle them with some old towels to minimize their chance of freezing.
Clean Items Before Storing
Make sure the items you place in storage are clean, especially if you are storing kitchen appliances, old clothes, or other furniture items. Your worst enemy is food crumbs that may lurk in sofa cushions or storing an old microwave that was not thoroughly wiped down. Not only will these items attract pests, but they may start to decay and emit a vile smell, making a pest problem worse. Invest the time and money to make sure all your items have been cleaned. You may need to wash clothes and slip covers and vacuum crevices of chairs, beds, and sofas before storage. The easiest way to clean kitchen appliances is to purchase wet-wipes made specifically for these items. Use them to wipe-down the interior of the appliance. Regular sanitizing wipes may be appropriate for wiping down the outside of appliances.
Double-Protect Items
Clothes, stuffed animals, and other items that may be affected by mold or chewed on by moths or other pests can be protected by doubling your protection. For example, many people place these items in plastic bags, which can easily break. Once you have placed the items in a plastic bag, it is best to add the bag to a plastic storage bin, not a cardboard box. One problem that may occur is trapping humidity by storing items in plastic. To circumvent this problem, you may want to add a box of silica gel to your storage unit to offset any humidity issues, especially in the warmer months. Whenever possible, elevate your items by placing the least important containers on the bottom and the most important items above them. If there is ever any water damage or something spills, just having items elevated a few inches may save them.
Protecting your items from common problems can be difficult because many items in storage are left unattended for months. A few preventative measures can make the difference in keeping items safe. For more information and tips, contact a storage facility or visit websites like http://www.i-70selfstorage.com.
Share16 November 2017
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