
Though it isn’t an exhaustive list, the following items typically require climate-controlled storage:
- Musical instruments like violins, cellos and clarinets
- Collectibles (other than glass and porcelain ones)
- Important documents like birth certificates, medical, and financial records
- Vinyl records
- Antiques, wooden and particle board furniture
- Family heirlooms
- Artwork like oil, watercolor, and acrylic paintings
- Medical supplies and equipment
Full Answer
What should you consider when choosing climate-controlled storage?
Let’s take a look at some of the most vital things to think about when deciding to go with climate-controlled storage. The idea behind climate-controlled units is to maintain a constant average temperature and humidity to better store customers’ items.
Do I need temperature control for my storage unit?
Temperature controls will reduce the moisture damage that could occur to your items. On the other hand, when you only need storage for a short period, maybe a month or two, you should be fine without temperature controlled units. This is particularly true if you don’t have any items to store from the list above.
What is climate control storage?
Climate control is sometimes known as temperature control, and it is more commonly found with indoor storage facilities. If you need to use drive-up storage, they are less likely to be climate controlled, though the facility might still have options if you need it.
Is it safe to skip the climate controlled storage unit?
As for times when you’re probably safe to skip the climate controlled storage unit, if you’re not storing any items from the provided list and you’re only storing items for a short period of time (think a month or less in outdoor storage, and three months or less in indoor storage), then you should be okay with a standard self storage unit.

What items in storage need climate controlled?
10 Items That Need Climate-Controlled Storage1) WOODEN FURNITURE. When exposed to too much moisture over time, wood can crack, warp, or rot. ... 2) LEATHER FURNITURE. ... 3) HOUSEHOLD APPLIANCES. ... 4) SPECIAL COLLECTIONS. ... 5) MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS. ... 6) ARTWORK. ... 7) CLOTHING. ... 8) BUSINESS DOCUMENTS & INVENTORY.More items...
Why would you want climate controlled storage?
The Benefits of Climate Controlled Storage Units Having the constant temperature in the storage unit will help protect the stored items from damage. High temperature and humidity levels can warp, crack or split wood or leather furniture.
Do I need climate controlled storage for electronics?
Basic self storage is sufficient for a lot of different household, business, or yard items. However, climate controlled storage is necessary and highly recommended for sensitive items like antiques, musical instruments, electronics, or fine art.
Does wood furniture need to be stored in climate control?
We advise storing valuable wood furniture in a space that maintains a relative humidity around 55% and has a consistent temperature. If you opt to store valuable furniture in a non-climate controlled storage unit, make sure you attain the appropriate amount of renter's insurance.
What items do not need climate controlled storage?
Items That Can Be Stored Without Climate ControlGardening equipment. Your gardening equipment will likely do just fine in non-climate controlled storage. ... Cars and recreational vehicles. ... Clothing. ... Plastic patio furniture. ... Kitchen items. ... Furniture. ... Antiques and collectibles. ... Artwork, photographs, and important documents.More items...•
Do you need climate controlled storage for TV?
TVs and other electronics need climate control because extreme heat and cold can severely damage electrical components. Even if you live in a mild climate, climate control can help you safely store electronics.
Can a TV be stored in a storage unit?
Use a Climate Controlled Storage Unit To protect your TV from damaging fluctuations in temperature, use a climate controlled storage unit rental. A climate controlled storage unit will maintain a steady range of temperature ideal for storing a TV.
Is it OK to store clothes in plastic bins?
Plastic bins are a practical choice for storing clothes because they're easy to handle, stack well, and are good at keeping moisture and bugs out (for more on that, see our next step).
Will crayons melt in a storage unit?
Crayons and markers – Crayons can melt, and markers can freeze, so be aware when storing these school supplies. Paint – Frozen paint can be unusable even after it unthaws, so make sure this does not happen by storing it in a room-temperature storage space.
Is it safe to store electronics in a storage unit?
Electronics Electronic equipment, such as a TV, may be damaged if kept in a storage unit for a lengthy time period. Electronics don't always do well in extreme temperatures, and storage units can be cold in winter and hot in the summer.
What should you not put in storage?
Top 7 things you should never put into a storage unit1) Food. This is one of the most frequently overlooked safety rules when using self-storage! ... 2) Live animals / pets. ... 3) Plants. ... 4) Stolen items. ... 5) Hazardous materials. ... 6) Scented or wet items. ... 7) Valuables.
How do you keep furniture from molding in storage?
How Do You Keep Furniture From Molding In Storage?Choose The Type Of Storage Unit Wisely. ... Inspect The Specific Unit. ... Clean Your Furniture. ... Let Everything Dry Before Storing. ... Install A Moisture Barrier. ... Position Furniture Away From Walls And Doors. ... Allow For Airflow. ... Raise Furniture Off The Floor.More items...
Why is climate change important?
Climate change is already impacting human health. Changes in weather and climate patterns can put lives at risk. Heat is one of the most deadly weather phenomena. As ocean temperatures rise, hurricanes are getting stronger and wetter, which can cause direct and indirect deaths.
How do you store books in a non climate controlled storage?
Add silica packets to boxes with books in them, or place moisture-absorbing products in the area to avoid damage from moisture. Silica packs and similar desiccants are important to have on hand, especially if climate control isn't available.
Can you live in a storage unit?
First of all, the law prohibits people from living in storage units. This includes both local and federal level laws that mandate storage facilities evict anyone trying to live in their units. Any law-abiding storage facility makes its tenants sign a contract that includes the inability to live in their units.
What is the climate control?
Both A/C and heating are necessary to make a climate control system. With regular A/C, you have to adjust fan speed and balance the temperature dial yourself, but with Climate Control, you set a temperature you want, and the system adjusts fan speeds and heating or cooling to keep the air at that temperature.
Why is a temperature controlled unit used for wood furniture?
Wood expands and contracts with changes in surrounding temperature and humidity, which is why a temperature-controlled unit is usually the best option. But before you store, prepare your wood furniture beforehand.
What can you save for future generations?
Saving things like children’s toys, clothes, and nursery furniture can come in handy for future generations. Giving a family member or a friend a head start down the road is easy if you store baby and child treasures in a climate-controlled storage unit.
What is the best resource for climate control storage?
Besides getting recommendations from friends and family for where you can go for climate control storage, a real estate agent may be a useful resource. After all, a real estate agent is directly involved with the moving process when buying and selling a home.
Why is climate controlled storage better than other storage units?
If you need long term storage, the conditions in the unit may go through a sweeping change of temperature. When this will be the case where your unit is located, you should choose a climate-controlled unit.
What is the best way to reduce moisture in a storage facility?
If the storage facility is in a hot and often humid part of the country, climate control will help eliminate the problems. Temperature controls will reduce the moisture damage that could occur to your items.
Why are climate controls important?
Higher temperatures can lead to increased humidity, which makes climate controls particularly useful in warmer parts of the country. When the temperature and the humidity are kept within a stable range, the chances of moisture forming is significantly reduced.
What to do when nobody has used storage locally?
When nobody you know has used storage locally, your next best option is doing a Google search. By doing a search such as climate control storage near me or climate-controlled storage near me, you should get more than a couple of options.
What is the temperature of a climate controlled unit?
The temperature will typically be kept somewhere between 55 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit, which is similar to the average temperatures in the home. Both the temperature and the humidity are vital when it comes ...
How much does a climate control unit cost?
Expect to pay around $100 to $120 a month for your climate-controlled unit. The cost will vary depending on the size of the unit along with the location. Though if it keeps your valuable possessions in excellent condition, it will be well worth the additional expense.
What is Climate-Controlled Storage?
Climate-controlled storage is a type of storage unit that stays consistently between the temperatures of 55 and 80 degrees. The main purpose of climate-control is to ensure items that you plan on storing don’t fall victim to damages from the environment. Sensitive and delicate items such as antiques are not meant to withstand temperature changes. Without climate-control, some of the typical damages from a standard self-storage unit include mold, mildew, rust, and corrosion.
Is climate controlled storage more expensive than self storage?
If you have been on the search for self-storage, then you’ve probably seen several companies promoting climate-controlled storage units. Climate-controlled storage tends to be slightly more expensive than standard self-storage but offers an array of benefits for items you intend on storing. Those benefits could end up saving you priceless memories and money in the long run.
Which items need climate controlled storage?
Particle board, upholstered, and wooden furniture are especially susceptible, but as we’ll see, the list of sensitive items that need climate-controlled storage is a long one.
What items need to be stored in a climate controlled room?
Though it isn’t an exhaustive list, the following items typically require climate-controlled storage: Musical instruments like violins, cellos and clarinets. Collectibles (other than glass and porcelain ones) Important documents like birth certificates, medical, and financial records. Vinyl records. Antiques, wooden and particle board furniture.
When is Climate-Controlled Storage Necessary?
In most parts of the country, extreme heat and cold are facts of life.
How much humidity is needed for long term storage?
Storage facilities that control humidity generally keep it at about 50% , making the air much more conducive to long-term storage.
Where are outdoor units best stored?
Outdoor units often feature roll-up doors and are great for hearty items typically stored in attics, basements, and garages.
Is climate controlled storage better than traditional storage?
For the long-term storage of sensitive items, climate-controlled storage is almost always preferable to traditional storage. It’ll give you peace of mind that when you return months or years later, your items will likely be in the same condition they were when you left them. A great place to start.
Do you need stairs to move items in storage?
Sometimes indoor storage facilities have multiple floors, which means if you rent a 2nd or 3rd-floor unit you’ll need to use stairs or an elevator to access your items or move them in or out.
Most electronics belong in a climate controlled storage unit
The best methods for storing electronics include remembering that technology evolves faster than lightening, and if you put something out of sight will it be relevant by the time you unpack it from your storage unit.
Wooden furniture should never be stored in a hot attic
Wood expands and contracts with changes in surrounding temperature and humidity, which is why a temperature-controlled unit is usually the best option. But before you store, prepare your wood furniture beforehand.
Wine always requires a controlled temperature environment
Storing wine in “perfect” storage conditions is something wine geeks can argue about all day long. While that makes it impossible to give definitive advice about the “perfect” wine storage conditions, you’ll be fine if you put wine in a dark, largely undisturbed place with a moderate and fairly constant temperature.
Artwork and family photos will last longer if stored in a climate controlled unit
When it comes to storing your most treasured possessions, family photos, paintings, and art supplies are usually at the top of the list. These types of items need to protection from UV exposure, heat, and humidity. Storing photos of family, friends, and travel adventures are easy if you have a Flickr or Smug Mug account.
Medical and pharmaceutical products must always be stored properly
Pharmaceutical reps often turn to their local self storage facility to keep their inventory and shipments safe. Besides choosing a climate controlled storage unit, facility, reps must ensure the storage unit is clean and there are no signs of bug or rodent infestations.

What Is Climate-Controlled Storage?
Factors to Consider When Choosing Climate-Controlled Storage
- Environment.
The environment is an important factor to consider when choosing climate-controlled storage. If you live in an area with extremely hot or cold temperatures, climate-controlled storage is a safe option. Extreme temperatures can cause items to fall victim to building mold, mildew, rusting, or … - Items you plan on storing.
It is also important to know what items you plan on placing in self-storage. Certain items require climate-control to ensure they stay protected from damages.
Items That Require Climate-Controlled Storage
- Here is a list of common household items that require climate-control storage. 1. Antiques 2. Artwork 3. Televisions, Sound Systems, or Media Players 4. Gaming Consoles 5. Documents & Files 6. Photographs 7. Musical Instruments 8. Wine 9. Collectibles (Cards, Comic Books, Figurines) 10. Leather and Wood Furniture 11. Clothing 12. Household Applianc...
Why Choose Climate-Controlled Storage?
- Climate-controlled storage is dependent on the environment, the items you plan on storing, and the timeframe you plan on storing. Climate-controlled storage is a safe option to take when seeking self-storage and will ensure your items stay safe from temperature fluctuations. If you plan on storing items such as antiques, artwork, fine china, or collectibles, it is recommended th…
What Should I Consider When Choosing A Climate-Controlled Storage Facility?
- You should consider how valuable your items are to you and your family. If the items you plan on storing have monetary or sentimental value to you, why take the chance of your items being damaged. Paying a little extra to store your items upfront, can end up saving you dividends in the long-run.