When visiting your storage unit to retrieve an item, you don’t want to be greeted by a foul smell. Musty odors are often especially troubling for those who store clothing, upholstered furniture, or fabric goods. Here are some tips to keep your unit smelling fresh.

How to Prevent Musty Odors in a Storage Unit

1. Absorb Moisture From the Air

Musty smells are often the result of mold or mildew building up in the unit or on your belongings. Since the fungi thrive in excessive moisture, the best way to prevent their growth is by drying out the air. When visiting your storage unit, run a dehumidifier for a few hours.

2. Use Airtight Containers

When placing items in a storage unit, you should first have most of them organized into boxes. Instead of cardboard, use plastic bins that seal completely, which are less likely to develop mold or mildew, even if there is moisture in the air. It also makes it more difficult for mold or musty smells to spread, so if you do have a particular item that smells, it shouldn’t impact the rest of your unit. For upholstered furniture, put on airtight plastic covers.

3. Add Scented Products

Artificial scents won’t help you with any underlying issues like mildew or moths, but they will help your belongings smell better when you go to get them out of storage. Add a dryer sheet or two to boxes of clothing or fabric, and place scented soaps or air fresheners around the rest of the unit to mask any musty or foul scents. You can also disperse a few blocks of cedar wood or boxes of baking soda to absorb odors.

If you’re looking for a storage unit where you can keep all of your belongings safe and smelling fresh, visit A Storage Inn in Kahului, HI. The self-storage facility has served customers throughout Maui for more than 25 years, offering affordable solutions and 24-hour access. The company offers a wide range of sizes, and all units are on the ground level for easy access. Visit the company’s website for storage unit offerings, or call (808) 871-6478 to ask about monthly specials.