What Can I Store in a Non-Climate Controlled Storage Unit?

If you have storage needs and you are debating on what type of storage unit to use, you may find the information in this article helpful while deciding what may be the best option for you.

When determining factors regarding the best storage unit for you, it's not just about size and location. The length of your storage needs as well as the items you will be storing must be considered to make the proper choice.

Weather can be a massive factor in the well-being of the items in your unit. If you live in an area that experiences extreme temperatures or sharp fluctuations in temperature, the conditions outside of your storage unit can have negative impacts on the contents inside your non-climate-controlled unit.

In extreme heat, the temperature inside a storage unit can easily rise 30 degrees higher than the outside temperature. Mix those temperatures with humidity and any kind of moisture, and it can be a recipe for disaster when it comes to certain materials. This can cause wood to split, plastic to melt, metal to corrode, and more.

Frigid cold temperatures mixed with moisture or humidity can also be harmful to items left in a non-climate-controlled self-storage unit.

Storable items

In some circumstances, a climate-controlled storage unit is not needed. Certain materials are generally unaffected when exposed to hot or cold conditions and can withstand fluctuations in temperatures and moisture. Also, depending on your timeline for storage needs, you may not run into inclement weather if your storage use doesn't span multiple seasons.

Additionally, your storage unit may be located in a mild climate that does not experience extreme temperatures, allowing for use of a non-climate-controlled self-storage unit.

So in general, what can you store in a non-climate-controlled storage unit? Check out the list below.

Cars and recreational vehicles

Cars, trucks, boats, RV's, and trailers do not require climate-controlled storage units. However, if you are storing an antique or vintage model, you may want to consider climate-controlled options for extra peace of mind.

Gardening equipment

Gardening equipment will likely do just fine in non-climate controlled storage. You can safely store items like tools, shovels, rakes, weed whackers, lawnmowers, and even tractors without climate control.

Kitchen items

Certain dishes, plates, cups, and utensils generally do not require a climate-controlled space. If you are looking to store glassware, you may want to look into temperature-controlled options as cold temperatures can make glass brittle.

Patio furniture

Patio furniture is meant to withstand outside elements, from sunlight and rain to snow and heatwaves. Because of its resiliency, outdoor furniture is okay to store in a unit without climate control.

There are some items that should always be stored in temperature-controlled units in order to keep them in good condition. The things we recommend using climate control can be found in further detail in our guide to climate controlled storage.

How to Store Your Items

Getting ready to store your items in a non-climate controlled storage unit? Here are some tips to help you prep them for storage. 

• Properly wrap and pack your items for extra protection. Using bubble and plastic wrap can protect the appearance of the items. Newspaper and towels can provide security for your fragile items
• Cover your items completely
• Using a fabric or plastic sheet to cover your items inside the storage unit can help preserve your belongings. This is especially important for wooden furniture. Do not leave your items unprotected.

Precautions when storing in a non-climate-controlled unit

Store Dry

Before storing your items away, ensure they are dry. This will reduce the chance of damage from moisture. 

Use Airtight Plastic Bins

When there’s no climate control, airtight plastic bins can protect your items better. Like storing them dry, keeping outside air out of a bin is another way to avoid damage from moist air. 

Disassemble Large Items

Heat and cold cause parts to expand or contract, so disassembling large pieces of furniture will help avoid damage. It makes it easier to move items into and out of the unit, too. 

Put Clothes in Wardrobe Boxes

If you must store clothing in a non-climate-controlled unit, take extra precautions. Wardrobe boxes are specifically made to protect clothing against humidity and dust. 

Use Cedar Balls

While self-storage facilities try to protect against pests, it’s still possible to get bugs, such as moths, in your unit. This is especially true if your unit doesn’t have climate control. The smell of cedar keeps moths away, however, so include a few in your wardrobe boxes.

Don’t Store Prohibited Items

Storing prohibited items can put your things, and those of your self-storage neighbors, in jeopardy. Open food containers, live plants, and more can attract pests. Make sure you are not storing prohibited items by checking with your facility.

Next Steps

Elevate Self Storage aims to satisfy all of your storage needs. Climate-controlled units or non-climate-controlled, we are here to help you secure your items with ease and peace of mind.

With leading industry conveniences like Bluetooth entry and 24/7 access, you can rest assured your needs are our top priority.

Call us today, or reserve your unit online!