Essential Tips for Safeguarding Your Belongings in Self Storage Units

OSS Mike
Sep 25
4 min read

When it comes to self storage, ensuring the safety and protection of your belongings is crucial. Whether you are storing seasonal items, furniture, or important documents, taking the right precautions can save you from potential headaches down the line. With around 10% of Americans renting a self storage unit, it's vital to be informed. Here are some essential tips to help you protect your contents while renting a self storage unit.

Choose the Right Storage Facility

Selecting a reputable self storage facility is the first step in safeguarding your belongings. Look for a facility that offers:

Security Features: Ensure the facility has strong security measures such as surveillance cameras and is well lit. For example, a facility with 24/7 video surveillance can provide extra peace of mind.
Cleanliness: A well-maintained facility indicates that management cares for the property, which reflects how they handle your belongings. Check online reviews; facilities with over a 4.5 star rating usually maintain higher standards.
Climate Control: If you’re storing items that are sensitive to temperature and humidity, choose a climate-controlled unit. For instance, wood furniture can warp in persistent humidity, while documents may become damaged at extreme temperatures.

Use Quality Packing Materials

Investing in quality packing materials can greatly protect your belongings. Here are some recommendations:

Sturdy Boxes: Use strong, sturdy boxes that can withstand stacking and handling. According to experts, a well-constructed box can decrease the risk of damage by up to 30% compared to weaker boxes.
Bubble Wrap and Packing Paper: Fragile items should be wrapped in bubble wrap or packing paper to cushion against impacts.
Plastic Bins: We strongly suggest using plastic bins instead of cardboard boxes for items more susceptible to moisture and pests. Unlike cardboard, which can absorb dampness, plastic bins offer a waterproof barrier.

By using the right materials, you can minimize the risk of damage during storage.

Organize Your Unit Wisely

The way you organize your self storage unit can greatly impact the safety of your belongings. Here are some tips for effective organization:

Stack Logically: Place items less susceptible to moisture on the ground (preferably on a plastic pallet). Stack items more susceptible to moisture on top of those items. If you have furniture that must sit on the ground, place a plastic disc or similar between the floor and the furniture legs. Think about using furniture slides. Even something as simple as checkers or similar would do the job. Wrap the bottom of your mattresses in plastic or shrink wrap if it must sit on the floor.
Leave Space for Airflow: Avoid packing your unit too tightly. Leave space between boxes to allow airflow, which can help prevent mold and mildew. Research indicates that units with proper airflow can reduce mold growth by 50%.

Protect Against Humidity and Water Damage

Extreme weather, HVAC Failures, waterline breaks or even a leak from a neighboring storage unit can unintentionally introduce water or humidity into your storage unit. Humidity and water damage can seriously harm your stored items. Here are some strategies to combat these issues:

Elevate Items: Store items off the ground using pallets or shelves. Keeping items elevated can prevent water damage from potential leaks or flooding. Even if the air is de-humidified, moisture in the concrete slab or exterior walls could wick into boxes, mattresses, wood furniture or upholstered items.
Seal Boxes: Use plastic wrap or tape to seal boxes tightly. By doing this, you can create a barrier that helps keep moisture out.
Use Plastic Totes: Plastic totes can be placed directly on the ground or be in contact with the exterior walls without transferring moisture to your stored contents.

By taking these precautions, you can significantly reduce the risk of mold, mildew or water damage to your belongings.

Regularly Check Your Storage Unit

Periodically checking on your storage unit is crucial to ensure everything is in good shape. Here’s what to do:

Schedule Visits: Plan regular visits to your unit. Aim for at least once every three months to inspect the condition of your items and the unit itself.
Monitor for Damage: Keep an eye out for any signs of water damage or mold growth. If you notice any problems, address them right away to prevent further damage.

Regular checks can help you catch potential issues before they become serious.

Consider Insurance Options

Even with all the precautions in place, accidents can occur. That’s why considering insurance for your stored belongings is wise. Here are some options:

Facility Insurance: Many self storage facilities offer insurance plans for your items. Check with your facility to see what coverage they provide. Some facilities may offer plans that cover up to $5,000 in damages.
Homeowner’s or Renter’s Insurance: Your existing insurance policy may cover items stored in a self storage unit. Contact your insurance provider to understand your coverage limits.
Beware of Insurance Pitfalls: Even though your homeowners insurance may cover items stored in a self storage unit, your deductible might be much higher and filing a claim would certainly increase your future premiums. While Facility insurance has lower deductibles, the correct locks must be used or claims could be denied.

Having insurance can give you peace of mind, knowing your belongings are protected against unforeseen events.

Final Thoughts

Safeguarding your stored contents while renting a self storage unit doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By choosing the right facility, using quality packing materials, organizing wisely, and taking steps to prevent humidity and water damage, you can ensure that your belongings remain safe. Regularly checking your unit and considering insurance options will further enhance your protection strategy. With these essential tips, you can confidently store your items and enjoy the convenience that self storage offers.