Are you having to store some of your personal effects while you find a new home or place to live? Maybe you are downsizing or moving to a temporary residence while your new home is being built. If space is an issue in regards to where you can put things in your current home, you'll have to find a space to keep things until you move again. A self storage unit is a great option for storing extra household items or the overflow of things you won't need until later.  A priority is keeping the items safe, but it's also important to make sure they stay clean and preserved while being stored. Here are a few ways that you can make sure your personal and household items stay clean while they are being stored.

Use Airtight Containers

It's important to use airtight containers whenever possible for storing items that are prone to mold and mildew buildup. Airtight plastic containers can also be stacked up off of the floor to help keep items from getting wet and experiencing fluctuating temperatures. Packing items in airtight containers as opposed to boxes can also help keep bothersome smells at bay. Using containers can also help you to conserve space and fit more items inside your storage unit or space. Another advantage to an airtight container is that is keep bugs out. Neighboring units with fleas or bedbugs can quickly invade nearby units. They are less likely to find their way into your personal items if they are sealed shut.

Choose Climate Controlled Storage Units

Most self storage rental units are outdoors, although some companies also offered indoor storage in climate controlled spaces. You may pay a few dollars more for rent, but it is easier on your belongings. If you have a lot of antiques or photos, a temperature controlled unit can help with preservation because there is a not a great fluctuation in the unit temperatures. A climate controlled unit can also keep items from melting and in some cases fading, because of being exposed to too high or too low of a temperature.

Avoid Packing Liquids or Items With High Moisture Content

When using your storage unit, try to avoid adding liquids or other items with high moisture content out of the area. If the items leak or become exposed, it can ruin everything around it. Even if mold spores don't form, bacteria-causing odor can lead to permanent damage of nearby items inside your storage unit.

Keep Fabrics Off of the Floors

If you are using plastic bags or cardboard boxes to store linens and clothing, be sure to keep these items up off of the floor. The storage unit is not responsible for neighboring spills from a next-door unit or for flooding due to unpredictable weather. Always keep items that are prone to mildew growth away from the ground and doors.

Storage rentals are designed for temporary storage. Make your experience a positive one by ensuring that your personal items stay safe and dry while at the storage facility. For more information about storage units that will fit your needs, check out the sites of facilities in your area.