Getting Your Storage Unit Ready For Summer

Summer Proofing Your Armored Self-Storage Unit: Beat the Heat and Protect Your Belongings (Bonus: DIY Hacks!)

Summer’s on its way, and while you might be prepping your wardrobe for sunshine, don’t forget about your belongings tucked away in your Armored Self-Storage unit. If you find yourself wondering, “How hot do storage units get in the summer?” read more to find out what you can do to take the proper precautions to ensure your belongings are safe and sound.

How Hot Do Storage Units Get In The Summer? 

While climate-controlled units at Armored Self Storage maintain a consistent temperature year round, those that aren’t climate controlled are subject to varying outside temperatures. . Traditional storage units can soar to temperatures 30 degrees Fahrenheit higher than the outside air! This drastic heat fluctuation can damage furniture, electronics, and other sensitive items. Luckily, with our climate-controlled units, you don’t have to worry about how hot storage units get in the summer. However, there are still some steps you can take to further safeguard your belongings during the summer.

Getting Your Storage Unit Summer Ready

• Declutter and Consolidate for Airflow: Start by decluttering your unit. Get rid of unused items or donate them to charity. This not only frees up space but also improves air circulation within the unit, which is crucial for maintaining a consistent temperature. Additionally, consider consolidating items into fewer boxes. This minimizes the surface area exposed to fluctuating temperatures, even within a climate-controlled environment.
• Packing with Protection in Mind: Packing materials make a big difference. Cardboard boxes are generally fine, but for valuable or delicate items, consider using plastic bins or airtight containers. These offer extra protection against dust, moisture, and any potential minor temperature fluctuations from how hot storage units get in the summer. Here’s a bonus tip: for extra defense against humidity, line the inside of your container with moisture-absorbing packing paper.
• Strategic Placement for Optimal Conditions: Avoid placing items directly against the walls or vents of your unit. Leave a few inches of space for proper air circulation. Additionally, store heavier items on lower shelves and lighter items on top for stability and to prevent damage in case of an earthquake.
• DIY Dehumidification Hacks: Summer often brings increased humidity. To prevent moisture buildup inside your unit, use moisture absorbers like packets of silica gel. Alternatively, consider placing a small, unfilled container of baking soda in the corner. Baking soda is a natural dehumidifier and can help absorb excess moisture. Here’s another bonus tip: swap out the baking soda every few months to maintain its effectiveness.

Summer-Specific Considerations for Certain Items

• Electronics: Even with climate control, extreme heat fluctuations outside the unit can put stress on electronic components. If storing electronics for an extended period, consider wrapping them in anti-static bubble wrap or cloth for added protection.
• Documents and Artwork: For valuable documents, photographs, or artwork on paper, invest in acid-free folders and archival boxes. These materials are designed to resist deterioration caused by how hot storage units get in the summer.
• Musical Instruments: Woodwind instruments and stringed instruments, in particular, are susceptible to warping or cracking in extreme temperatures. If storing musical instruments, loosen the strings or reeds slightly to prevent damage caused by temperature fluctuations, even within the controlled environment.
• Furniture: Leather furniture can dry out and crack in excessive heat. To protect leather furniture, use breathable furniture covers. You can also use wood polish with UV protectant on finished wood furniture to prevent fading or warping. Here’s a bonus tip: for extra leather protection, apply a leather conditioner before storing.

Taking Advantage of Armored Self Storage Services

At Armored Self Storage, we offer a variety of services to make your storage experience smooth and secure. Here are a few ways we can help you prepare for how hot storage units get in the summer. 

• Climate-Controlled Units: As mentioned earlier, our climate-controlled units maintain a consistent temperature year round, offering optimal protection for your belongings.
• Packing Supplies: We sell a variety of packing supplies onsite, including boxes, bins, tape, and furniture covers.
• Moving Carts and Dollies: Easily move your belongings around your unit with our complimentary moving carts and dollies.
• Online Account Management: Manage your unit and payments conveniently from your online account.

Remember, even though our units are climate controlled, a little extra summer prep can go a long way! Knowing how hot storage units get, following these tips, and taking advantage of our services, you can ensure your belongings stay safe and secure in your Armored Self-Storage unit all summer long. With a little planning and preparation, you can have peace of mind knowing your valuables are protected from the summer heat.