If you're spending the time and money to store your items rather than getting rid of them, you want to make sure they are usable – not moldy and worn – when you retrieve them from storage. To accomplish this goal, make sure you avoid these four common storage mistakes which can lead to mold growth.
Storing items directly on the ground.
Even if your storage unit seems completely dry and secure when you put your items inside, there's a chance that flooding or a big storm could cause some water accumulation on the floor. A spill in a nearby storage unit could also end up extending into yours. If your items are directly on the floor, they will be exposed to moisture, and where there is moisture, there is mold. Store your items on pallets to ensure they stay dry even if the floor becomes wet. Many hardware stores and warehouses will give away slightly damaged pallets, which should be fine for your purposes.
Spraying items with scented perfumes and the like.
Some people assume that spraying their sheets, books, and other possessions with perfume or other scented products will ensure they smell good when they emerge from storage. Unfortunately, this is not generally the case. When you spray these items with a liquid and then seal them up on a box, bag or bin to store them, the moisture in the spray gets trapped on the items and contributes to mold growth.
Not letting appliances dry completely after cleaning.
Hopefully you know to clean your refrigerator, microwave, and other appliances out before you store them. Ensure that you do this several days before you have to actually put the items in storage, so you can leave them open to dry completely. Otherwise, you'll open the door and find some moldy appliances in a few months.
Packing up linens and other fabric items on a humid day.
If you're planning on sealing your linens, clothing, and other fabric items in plastic bags or totes, wait for a very dry day to do so and let them hang out for a few hours before packing. You can also pack the items immediately after they come out of a cycle in the dryer – as long as they are fully dry. If you pack linens that have been sitting in a humid home or garage for a few days, you may trap moisture in the bags or totes and cause molding.
Don't waste time and money packing items into storage just to have them emerge covered in mold. By avoiding the mistakes above, you'll ensure your items stay in good shape. Contact Lake County Storage of Round Lake Heights or your local storage company to learn more.
