Whether you’re looking for a place to store excess belongings or you need to keep your stuff safe and out of the way for a little while, a self-storage unit can be a great option. But before you rent one, it’s important to know what can happen to your things if they’re not properly taken care of. Here are some of the ways your things can get ruined in a storage unit:

If the storage unit isn’t properly ventilated, moisture can build up and cause damage to your things. This is especially true during the summer months when the weather is hot and humid.

Storage units provide a perfect habitat for insects and rodents, so they can quickly infest your belongings if you’re not careful.

The temperature in a self-storage unit can fluctuate significantly from day to night, which can cause damage to sensitive items like electronics or furniture.So make sure you pack your belongings appropriately to protect them from the temperature changes.

The air in a storage unit is often dry and dusty, which can quickly accumulate on your belongings. This can cause them to become dirty and covered in scratches. Try to wrap your belongings in plastic or dust-proof covers to protect them.

Exposure to sunlight can cause fabrics, plastics, and other materials to fade over time. Best way to avoid this is to store your belongings in a dark, dry place.

Most self-storage units come with metal shelves that can easily collapse if you’re not careful. This can cause serious damage to your belongings. Use sturdy boxes and crates to store your belongings on the shelves, and make sure to not overload them.

If the storage unit is flooded, water can quickly seep through the cracks and cause extensive damage to your belongings. Make sure you choose a unit that’s located in a dry area, and check for any signs of water leakage before signing up.

Unfortunately, theft is not uncommon in self-storage units. So make sure you keep your valuable belongings locked up and out of sight.

If the storage unit is near a smoker, the smoke and fumes can quickly damage your belongings. Make sure you store your things in a well-ventilated area to avoid this.