After I moved everything into a small storage unit down the street, I realized that I needed to think of ways to organize and simplify the space. I started looking through the things that I had, getting rid of items that I didn't need anymore, and working hard to clean up my belongings. It was a lot of work, but I was able to completely overhaul my storage experience by learning to simplify. Check out this blog for more information about streamlining your storage experience and learning how to eliminate problems along the way. You never know, making storage easier might even make you happier.
High humidity usually makes storage units susceptible to mold attacks. And since mold can grow on valuables such as furniture and paintings, this usually increases the risks of property damage. An easy way of avoiding mold-related property damage is to rent out a climate-controlled unit. However, these units cost more than the average unit. The good news is that it is possible to enjoy a mold-free storage experience without having to spend the extra money needed to rent a climate-controlled unit. All that you have to do is place a moisture-absorbing substance in your unit. The following are some of the substances that can come in handy in helping to keep your storage unit mold-free.
Silica gel
When exposed to the environment, silica gel usually absorbs moisture from the air. What makes silica gel ideal as a unit-drying agent is the fact that when compared to most substances, it has the ability to absorb a greater percentage of its weight in moisture. There is also the fact that you can recycle silica gel particles by simply reheating them.
To effectively use silica gel, start by creating a pouch. Use a material that can contain the silica gel particles while also exposing them to the environment. Most pieces of fabric can do this and are therefore a common choice. After creating the pouch, fill it with silica gel particles, seal it, and then place it in your unit. Leave the pouch in the unit and when the crystals start to get damp, dry them and then place them back.
Charcoal briquettes
Charcoal briquettes can also absorb moisture from air. However, unlike silica gel, they don't need to be contained in a pouch. You can place them in a bucket, basket, or even on a metal plate.
Placing charcoal briquettes in your storage unit will help to keep your unit's humidity in check. The only thing that you should keep in mind is that you will need to replace them regularly. This is so mainly because their moisture-absorbing ability usually reduces as they absorb more moisture.
Kitty litter
Just like charcoal briquettes and silica gel, kitty litter can keep a storage unit dry by absorbing excess moisture from air. Since it usually comes already packed in a bag, you don't have to worry about creating a pouch for it — unlike when using silica gel crystals. All that you need to do is open the kitty litter bag and then place it inside the unit. The fact that it doesn't come with the staining liability of charcoal can make it a preferred alternative.
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