As winter settles in here in Minnesota, it’s time to take
extra steps to protect your belongings stored at Bear Cave Storage. The cold,
snow, and fluctuating humidity levels can cause damage to a variety of items,
from seasonal gear to furniture and electronics. With a few precautions, you
can ensure that your items stay safe, secure, and in great condition all season
long.
1. Take Advantage of Bear Cave Storage's Secure and
Well-Maintained Units
Bear Cave Storage offers clean, secure, and well-maintained
units that are perfect for protecting your belongings from the harsh winter
weather. With our digital surveillance, on-site security, and family-owned
care, your items are in safe hands. You can rest easy knowing that your storage
unit is ready to protect your items, no matter the season.
2. Use Plastic Bins and Containers for Sensitive Items
Cold weather can lead to moisture buildup inside your unit,
which may cause damage to sensitive items like clothing, electronics, or
paperwork. To protect these items, store them in airtight plastic containers or
bins. This will help prevent humidity from causing rust, mildew, or mold. For
electronics, be sure to store them in insulated boxes to shield them from the
cold.
3. Elevate Items Off the Floor
In winter, the floor of your storage unit can become damp
or cold, which may cause your items to absorb moisture. To avoid this, make
sure to elevate your boxes and bins off the floor. Using pallets, plastic
risers, or wooden platforms will help ensure that your belongings stay dry.
This simple step can prevent moisture-related damage, especially in units that
are not climate-controlled.
4. Protect Furniture and Upholstery
Storing furniture, especially upholstered items, during the
winter months requires special care. Cold temperatures can cause fabrics to
crack or stiffen, and moisture can lead to mildew. Wrap your furniture in
protective plastic or breathable covers to keep them safe from the elements.
Blankets or quilts can provide an additional layer of protection for delicate
upholstery.
5. Control Humidity with Desiccants
As temperatures fluctuate, humidity levels can rise,
leading to potential damage from rust, mold, and mildew. One of the easiest
ways to combat humidity in your storage unit is by using desiccants like silica
gel or moisture-absorbing packets. Place these inside boxes or near sensitive
items to help absorb excess moisture and keep your belongings dry.
6. Winterize Larger Items Like Boats and RVs
If you’ve stored larger items like boats, RVs, or campers,
make sure they are fully winterized before storing them. This includes draining
fluids, covering them with insulated covers, and checking for any areas that
might need extra protection from the cold. Bear Cave Storage’s indoor storage
units for vehicles help keep these large items safe from the elements during
the harsh Minnesota winter.
7. Keep Electronics and Delicate Items Safe
Electronics and fragile items need special care during
winter storage. Extreme cold can damage batteries, screens, and internal
components. For extra protection, wrap electronics in blankets or bubble wrap
and place them in insulated boxes. For other delicate items like artwork or
antiques, consider storing them in protective containers to prevent any damage
from the cold or humidity.
8. Check on Your Belongings Regularly
Even with the best precautions, it’s always a good idea to
check in on your storage unit periodically. If you can, visit your unit every
few weeks to ensure everything is secure and there’s no water buildup or
damage. Bear Cave Storage’s advanced security features, including digital video
surveillance and on-site security, provide peace of mind, but it’s still
helpful to double-check your stored items when possible.