How to Prevent Mold in Storage Unit

Indoor humidity in your home should be between 30% and 50%. This range works well to prevent mold and mildew from developing. When this limit is crossed, problems can happen. The same goes for storage units. If moisture starts to gather in your storage unit, anything inside will become vulnerable. Mold, mildew, corrosion, and rust can easily develop. This can be dangerous for stored goods and items of personal value. For example, clothing, photos, wood, leather, and electronic appliances can be ruined. Therefore, preventing mold in storage units is very important!

A lot of people use storage units to keep their things safe. Some of them use these storage units for long periods of time. Others just need to know their belongings are secure when relocating to Brooklyn. However, just leaving things in a storage unit isn’t the end of work. The most important thing is preventing mold in storage units so it wouldn’t damage the things inside. Here are some things you can do in order to ensure a moisture-resistant and mold-free storage unit.

Protect your belongings properly

Your goal is preventing mold in storage units you rent and keeping your belongings protected, right? Sadly, water and other types of moisture are not your only problem, the mold is something that you should have in mind. The first thing that you have to do is to keep your items off the ground. This way you will protect your valuables from mold and moisture. Be sure that your items are warped with the right packing supply and covered with a plastic sheet. Never put your items directly on the ground because that may lead to condensation. For example, you can put your items on some dry surface like wooden pallets.

Make sure your stored items are 100% dry

Have you heard the saying “one bad apple spoils the whole bunch”? Well, it is the same with one damp item – it can ruin all the items in the container or storage unit. Just one slightly wet item can increase humidity levels significantly. Also, it will leave the door wide open for mold and mildew to grow on your belongings. So, before you store your valuables, make sure they are all completely dry with no traces of moisture. This is especially recommended if you’re storing swimming gear, surfboards, or similar items.

Check humidity level in your storage unit

It is important that you measure the humidity levels inside your storage unit regularly. Indoor humidity should never exceed 50%. You can check the humidity level in two ways. First one is asking professionals to do it for you. On the other hand, you can install a relative humidity gauge inside the storage unit by yourself. Both cases can be costly so you should think about what is the best option for you.

Once you get your humidity level tested you will know what your next steps should be. In case the humidity level is in the recommended range, you don’t have to anything. Just make sure to check it regularly. However, if the humidity level is high your next step should be a visual check of the whole unit. Include the store things in this. In case you notice mold you will have to call for professional help. Additionally, if you don’t notice mold at first you can look for the cause, such as leeks. Once you find the cause taking necessary steps to lower down the level of humidity.

Inspect for leaks in your storage

If you plan on using an outdoor storage unit, before you purchase or rent one, check for potential leaks. Inspect the storage unit closely for cracks and hole. This is the simplest way to prevent water from entering your storage unit. No matter how small and barely visible the cracks seem they put your belongings at risk. Fixing these leaks is a very important step in preventing mold in storage units. Finally, don’t forget to keep checking the storage unit for leaks and other forms of damage ever so often. Outdoor weather conditions and wear can cause new cracks to appear.

Choose your storage unit with care

The best way to fight moisture in your storage unit is to stop it from developing in the first place. Choosing a high-quality, moisture-resistant unit will save you from all the additional worries and stress. Storage containers are perfectly designed to handle all the challenges you might face when storing sensitive items. Many storage facilities, like Brooklyn movers, have both air conditioning and dehumidifiers. Both of those climate systems will help you in preventing mold in storage units. You also always have room for additional improvements, such as installing vents, air conditioners, and windows.

Install a vapor barrier

One more way to damp-proof your storage space is to install a vapor barrier. Place a polyethylene plastic or foil on the warm side of the storage to block outdoor moisture. Also, this flexible membrane should also be installed beneath the floor. This will prevent moisture from the ground form leaking inside. You can buy a suitable vapor barrier in most hardware stores.

Make your own drying agent

Protect your belongings with materials that absorb moisture. Also, Staten Island Movers notice you to be careful how you pack liquids before you move them. By absorbing moisture you’re preventing mold in storage units. For example, silica gel is a very good moisture absorbent. You can purchase silica gel drying agent or similar materials in the nearest home hardware store. Also, you can make your own desiccant at home. All you will need is a piece of fabric and silica gel. Form a pocket out of two square pieces of fabric and fill it with the silica gel. Sew it closed and then hang the bag inside your storage unit. Finally, remember that you will have to renew the desiccant. Silica gel can absorb up to 40 percent of its weight. To do so, dry the crystals in the oven.

Use charcoal

If you are looking for a more natural alternative to your moisture problem, you may want to consider charcoal. It is a natural alternative to silicone gel desiccant. Additionally, charcoal briquettes absorb not only moisture but unpleasant odors as well. Wrap them in fabric, just like crystals, and sew them up the same way you would the silica gel packs. You can also place them on a metal tray, inside a bucket or basket lined with foil or plastic. Replace the briquettes every month or two.

However, when handling charcoal, you should be careful not to stain some of your belongings. Never put it against items that could be damaged. To protect your possessions from stains and other damage, make sure that your storage unit is well organized. And that will ensure preventing mold in storage units as well.