How to protect your storage from mold

The most common reason why people decide to rent a storage unit is the one related to space or, more precisely, the lack of it. Renting storage Brooklyn based has become a sort of a necessity for an average New Yorker. We live in cramped up apartments and every inch of space is of extreme value. So, once we pile up too many items, we soon enough find ourselves in the pursuit of a good storage unit. And a cheap one, although that goes without saying. But, as much as you want to believe that your items are 100% safe inside storage units, the reality has shown differently. And we are not talking about burglary and theft. No, the number one enemy turns out to be mold. That’s why it’s of utmost importance to protect your storage from mold and humidity while you still have enough time.

It all begins with a good choice

Just like there are many moving companies in NYC, there are also plenty of storage providers. Their services range from premier to those you would get only if you had no other choice – or thought you didn’t. When looking for a storage unit, especially a long term one, you have to keep your eyes wide open. Investing more money in a quality unit will turn out to be a money saver in the long run.

Without a doubt, the best way to protect your storage from mold and pests is by regulating the temperature inside it. Luckily, we live in the modern era, where even cheap storage NYC companies offer climate-controlled units. Besides, if you will be renting for a longer period of time, you might even be able to negotiate a better deal and a lower price.

Why is it so important to protect your storage from mold?

What’s a little mold here and there? Is it really so dangerous and detrimental to the items you stored that you have to go above and beyond to protect them? Not to mention spend more money on higher quality units? The answer is short and simple – yes. The dangers of mold are many, and they are as scary as it gets.

• The biggest danger that comes associated with mold is the one to your health. Mold is a real health hazard and can cause allergic reactions and respiratory problems.
• As a known destroyer of fabrics, wood, papers, and upholstery, mold is something you don’t want to see inside your unit – no matter what you’re storing.
• Due to its nature, mold develops slowly yet without anyone noticing. By the time you realize you have mold issues, it will already be too late to do anything about it.

Before bringing anything into your storage unit, make sure it’s dry

Mold and water get on like a house on fire, and that’s something you need to be aware of at all times. Whether you are packing clothes, your antique furniture or some valuable artwork, you need to be sure there is not a drop of water on them before entering the unit. It also doesn’t matter whether you are renting short term storage as opposed to the long term one. All it takes is one wet box for all of your efforts to go to waste. It’s hard to believe that one damp cardboard box can bring about the destruction of your entire unit, but it really can.

Can you protect your storage from mold and pests without investing in a climate controlled unit?

It will certainly be an additional hassle to an already complicated process, but it’s certainly doable. With high living costs and steep rents, not a lot of people will be able to afford a climate controlled unit. And that’s okay, as long as you take all precautionary measures to ensure your unit stays mold-free.

• Installing a vapor barrier will prevent moisture from entering your unit, and no moisture equals no mold.
• Charcoal is a known natural moisture absorbent and it will also regulate any foul odors inside your unit.
• A very useful hack to implement is using silica gel packs. They are easy to find as you can find them in your local hardware store, and they will help you protect your storage from mold and humidity. They work by drying up the air and, thus, keeping humidity low.

What to do once mold invades your unit

Imagine walking into your unit after spending the summer away and being greeted with a sight of moldy boxes? Your first instinct would be to panic, and we don’t blame you. However, you should remain composed as now is time to do some damage control.

The key to salvaging as many items as possible is in cleaning your unit as soon as possible. Empty out your storage unit and have a visual representation of the situation and damage. On the other hand, finding a suitable area for cleaning outside of your unit may be difficult. That is why you should seek some guidance from the management. They exist with the purpose of helping you keep your storage unit safe, so you shouldn’t doubt getting in touch with them.

Once you repack your boxes and clean the items, you have two options. One is to clean your previous unit and proceed by trying to protect your storage from mold and other hazards in the future. The second one is to replace your existing unit and start fresh. We can’t say which one is a better option as there are too many variables that decide. What’s important, though, is to never face this problem again. You were lucky this time, and who knows how it will all play out the next time.