Over time, excess moisture in the air eats away at paper, wood, and even metal, promoting mold growth and rust that can destroy your most precious belongings. The threat of humidity can be even worse in storage units, which often trap and collect moisture. Fortunately, a few simple steps can reduce the humidity in your unit, keeping your possessions safe for years to come.

3 Steps for Reducing Humidity in Your Storage Unit

1. Use Desiccants

The small bags of silica crystals often found in shoe boxes and the pockets of new clothes draw moisture out of the air. Most hardware and drug stores carry desiccants in quantities large enough for your storage unit, or you can use an open bag of kitty litter.

Bear in mind that these products become less effective over time, so you should replace them every few months.

2. Make Sure Everything Is Dry

Just one wet item can increase humidity levels enough to promote mold growth and corrosion. Before packing your unit, check that everything is completely dry, including clothing, furniture, and tools. To avoid adding moisture to the unit, avoid packing on rainy days.

3. Use the Right Packing Materials

Waterproof, airtight plastic bins are the best option for storing clothing, quilts, and linens, especially if you include a desiccant package in each box. However, books, artwork, and other paper materials do best with regular airflow, so choose boxes with holes designed to maximize circulation.

As Hawaii’s leading moving and storage company, M. Dyer & Sons will keep your precious belongings safe. Their 63,000 sq. ft. facility in Pearl City features around-the-clock security, advanced fire protection, and a variety of options to meet any need. Visit their website for more on their storage services, and call (808) 456-4200 to ask about pricing and availability.