Winter Self-Storage Mistakes to Avoid

As the temperatures drop, many people rely on self-storage to keep their belongings safe during the winter months. However, common mistakes can lead to damaged items or unnecessary headaches.

Here are the top winter self-storage mistakes and how to avoid them.

1. Neglecting Climate-Controlled Storage for Sensitive Items

Mistake: Storing delicate items like electronics, wood furniture, or artwork in an unheated unit.
Consequence: Fluctuations in temperature can lead to cracking, warping, or malfunctions.
Solution: Opt for a climate-controlled unit to maintain stable temperature and humidity levels.

2. Forgetting to Protect Against Moisture

Mistake: Skipping moisture prevention measures, leading to mold, mildew, or water damage.
Consequence: Clothes, paper documents, and furniture can develop mold or rot.
Solution: Use moisture absorbers, silica gel packs, or a dehumidifier inside your storage unit. Elevate items on pallets to prevent contact with condensation on the floor.

3. Not Properly Winterizing Equipment

Mistake: Storing gas-powered equipment (like lawnmowers or snowblowers) without draining the fuel or oil.
Consequence: Fuel can freeze, expand, and cause damage to the engine or tank.
Solution: Fully drain fuel and oil from equipment before storage, or add a fuel stabilizer if draining isn’t an option.

4. Packing Poorly

Mistake: Using flimsy boxes or leaving items unwrapped.
Consequence: Fragile items can break, and unwrapped items can be damaged by dust or temperature changes.
Solution: Use durable, waterproof containers and wrap items in protective materials like bubble wrap, moving blankets, or plastic sheeting.

5. Storing Liquids Without Precautions

Mistake: Storing liquids like cleaning supplies, paints, or beverages.
Consequence: Liquids can freeze, expand, and leak, damaging nearby items.
Solution: Avoid storing liquids entirely. If necessary, use containers designed to withstand freezing temperatures and seal them tightly.

6. Ignoring Pest Prevention

Mistake: Leaving items like cardboard boxes or unsealed food in the unit.
Consequence: Attracting rodents, insects, or other pests that can damage your belongings.
Solution: Use airtight plastic bins instead of cardboard boxes and never store food or scented items.

7. Packing Items Too Tightly

Mistake: Cramming the unit full without leaving room for airflow or access.
Consequence: Restricted airflow can lead to moisture build-up, and you’ll struggle to find items you need.
Solution: Organize items to allow airflow and create an accessible layout. Keep frequently used items near the front.

8. Overlooking Security

Mistake: Using a low-quality lock or storing valuables without proper precautions.
Consequence: Increased risk of theft or tampering.
Solution: Invest in a sturdy, weather-resistant lock. Consider insuring high-value items and choosing a facility with robust security features like surveillance and gated access.

9. Storing Without Insurance

Mistake: Assuming your belongings are automatically covered by the storage facility’s policy.
Consequence: Loss or damage to items due to unforeseen circumstances.
Solution: Check if your homeowner’s or renter’s insurance covers stored items, or purchase a policy through the storage facility.

10. Forgetting to Check on Your Unit

Mistake: Storing items and not visiting the unit until spring.
Consequence: Problems like moisture, pests, or damage can go unnoticed for months.
Solution: Schedule periodic visits to check on your belongings, especially after severe weather.

Be sure you still check on your items during these colder days as we go into winter.