HELP! I am moving my contents into a storage unit, and I need tips to prepare

Storage Choice
March 19th, 2026

Follow these simple and easy tips to ensure your belongings are kept safe and protected from mold, mildew, moisture damage, pests and other issues in a storage unit. To protect against these issues, it all starts with YOU! :

1.) Choose the right type of storage unit:

Choose a climate-controlled unit if possible (especially for long-term storage, sensitive items like wood furniture, electronics, documents, photos, clothes, or anything porous). These regulate temperature and humidity (ideally keeping it 30-50%), which dramatically reduces mold risk compared to standard units.

2.) Clean and thoroughly dry everything before packing:

Moving into a unit on a rainy day? Be sure to bring wipes to dry off any water your items were exposed to during the transport of the move.
Wash, wipe down, or dust all items: Launder your clothes and linens, clean your furniture/upholstery, vacuum rugs and air-dry everything completely to ensure there are no damp spots!
Any residual moisture can feed mold growth.

3.) Use the best packing materials and methods:

Avoid cardboard boxes for anything vulnerable- they absorb moisture, collapse, and attract pests/mold. Use sturdy plastic bins with tight-fitting lids instead (airtight or moisture-resistant ones are ideal).
If plastic bins are not an option for you, use heavy-duty cardboard boxes that are double-walled for extra strength.
For clothing/fabrics: use vacuum-sealed bags or breathable garment bags to compress and protect without trapping moisture long-term.
Wrap absorbent items (furniture, mattresses, upholstery) in moving blankets, bubble wrap, or mold-resistant covers – avoid sealing them tightly in regular plastic sheeting or trash bags, as these can trap condensation and lead to mildew.
Add moisture absorbers inside bins/boxes such as silica gel packets which are inexpensive and effective at pulling humidity out of enclosed spaces.
For wood/metal items: use furniture pads or covers, and avoid direct contact with floors.

4.) Organize the unit:

Leave some space between items and walls for air circulation – don’t pack wall-to-wall. Good airflow helps prevent stagnant humid pockets.
Place heavier items at the bottom and lighter ones on top for stability.
Label boxes clearly and create aisles so you can access/rotate items if you need to get something out of storage.

5.) Additional protections:

NEVER store food, open containers, or anything with strong odors as this can attract pests

These above moving tips further prove that keeping your items safe and protected, starts with YOU! Thank you for being a valued customer at Storage Choice and good luck preparing your unit.

*Moving tips compiled with the help of Grok by xAI*

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