No matter the season, keeping your belongings safe and in good condition requires more than just packing boxes and locking the door. Weather changes, temperature fluctuations, and humidity can all affect how your items hold up over time. Whether you’re storing summer patio furniture, winter sports gear, or seasonal décor, a little preparation goes a long way. At Vancouver Self Storage, we’ve helped thousands of customers keep their items safe year-round. Here’s our expert advice for storing your belongings through every season.
Spring is the perfect time to do a full clean-out and re-evaluate what’s in your storage unit. Over the winter, it’s easy for things to pile up or get disorganized. Take the opportunity to:
Go through stored items and donate or discard anything you no longer need.
Wipe down furniture, bins, and boxes to remove any dust or residue.
Check for signs of moisture or pests, especially if you haven’t accessed your unit recently.
If you’re rotating seasonal items, now is the time to bring out patio furniture, gardening tools, and summer gear while putting away winter clothing and decorations.
Summer temperatures can be tough on sensitive items, especially in non-climate-controlled units. Heat and humidity can warp wood, fade fabrics, and even damage electronics if they’re not stored properly. To protect your belongings:
Use breathable covers for furniture instead of plastic, which can trap moisture.
Store electronics and delicate items off the ground and away from walls to prevent condensation damage.
Consider using silica gel packs or moisture absorbers inside boxes to control humidity levels.
At Vancouver Self Storage, many of our units are designed to reduce temperature extremes, helping keep your belongings in great condition even during the hottest months.
Autumn is a transition period when you’ll likely swap out summer gear for colder-weather essentials. To make seasonal changes easier:
Place frequently used fall and winter items near the front of your unit for quick access.
Label bins clearly so you don’t waste time searching later.
Inspect your stored items and unit for any signs of wear, water leaks, or temperature-related damage before winter arrives.
It’s also a good time to pack away summer toys, pool equipment, and gardening supplies. Make sure everything is clean and dry before storing to prevent mold and mildew.
Winter can be harsh on stored belongings, especially if temperatures drop below freezing. Items like liquids, electronics, and certain fabrics can suffer if not properly protected. Follow these tips:
Avoid storing liquids that could freeze and expand, causing containers to crack.
Wrap delicate items like electronics and instruments in insulating materials.
Cover furniture and other large items to protect them from dust and cold-related brittleness.
If you plan to access your unit in snowy or icy weather, consider keeping a small shovel or salt in your vehicle to make entry safer.
The key to successful year-round storage is preparation. By taking a few extra steps each season, you can prevent damage, extend the life of your belongings, and make switching items in and out a smooth process. At Vancouver Self Storage, we offer secure, accessible units in a range of sizes to suit your seasonal storage needs. Whether you’re storing summer patio sets, winter sports gear, or anything in between, our team is here to help you make the most of your space.
Contact us today to learn more about our storage options and find the perfect unit for your belongings.