What can be safely stored in non-climate controlled storage?
In non-climate-controlled storage units, it's important to store items that aren't sensitive to temperature fluctuations, humidity, or extreme weather conditions. Here’s a list of things that are generally safe to store:
### Items Safe for Non-Climate-Controlled Storage:
1. **Metal Items**: Tools, outdoor furniture, and non-rusting metal items are generally safe.
2. **Plastic Items**: Containers, outdoor toys, and patio furniture.
3. **Wooden Furniture (Treated or Painted)**: While untreated wood can warp with temperature changes, treated or painted wood tends to hold up better.
4. **Lawn Equipment**: Lawn mowers, weed trimmers, and other yard tools.
5. **Sports Equipment**: Bicycles, skateboards, and other durable equipment.
6. **Seasonal Items**: Holiday decorations, camping gear, or outdoor gear.
7. **Books and Paper Products**: Though they can be affected by humidity, if properly sealed in plastic or airtight containers, books and papers may be okay.
8. **Tools and Hardware**: Wrenches, hammers, screws, nails, and other basic tools.
9. **Vehicles**: Cars, motorcycles, and boats (ensure they're properly prepared for storage).
10. **Non-sensitive Electronics**: Older or less sensitive electronics (though some are sensitive to extreme temperatures, especially LCD screens and batteries).
### Items to Avoid in Non-Climate-Controlled Storage:
- **Artwork and Photographs** (may warp or fade)
- **Leather or Fabric Furniture** (prone to mold or mildew)
- **Electronics** (sensitive to temperature and humidity)
- **Musical Instruments** (can be damaged by temperature swings)
- **Documents and Important Papers** (susceptible to moisture)
- **Perishable Goods** (risk of spoiling or attracting pests)
To protect your items, use plastic bins, pallets, and desiccants to help reduce moisture exposure.