Hello, Jackson! As residents of Madison County, we know our weather is anything but predictable. We live in a humid subtropical climate, which means we’re used to those famously hot and humid summers. But just because the cooler winter air is settling in, don't be fooled into thinking the threat of moisture is gone. That humidity can easily get trapped, and our cool winters create the perfect conditions for a storage unit’s worst enemies: mold and mildew.
Whether you're storing seasonal items after a beautiful fall walk through Cypress Grove Nature Park, packing away precious family heirlooms, or safeguarding a collection you'd proudly display at the Carnegie Legends Museum, that creeping dampness can spell disaster. That musty smell isn't just unpleasant; it's the sign of fungus that can permanently ruin furniture, fabrics, electronics, and documents.
Fortunately, you can fight back. Before you lock up your belongings, here are five essential ways to prevent mold and mildew in your storage unit this winter.
This is, without a doubt, the most effective way to protect your items. Standard drive-up units are essentially metal boxes that trap the ambient air. As the temperature outside drops, any moisture in the air or in your belongings can condense, creating a breeding ground for mold.
Climate-Controlled Storage & Self-Storage Options are different. These indoor units are kept at a consistent temperature and humidity level, preventing those extreme fluctuations. Given our Jackson, TN climate, this isn't a luxury; it's a necessity for anything valuable. Facilities like Hollywood Self Storage right here on 2016 Hollywood Drive specifically offer a wide range of climate-controlled units, which act as a powerful defense against weather-related damage.
Never, ever store items that are dirty or even slightly damp. A stray crumb can be a food source for mold, and a damp towel or piece of clothing will spread moisture to everything around it.
Wipe down all hard surfaces like furniture, plastic totes, and electronics.
Launder all fabrics, blankets, and clothing.
For appliances like refrigerators or freezers, ensure they are defrosted, cleaned, and completely dry. Leave the doors propped open in storage to prevent musty odors and moisture buildup.
Your choice of packing materials matters. While it’s tempting to grab free boxes from the grocery store, they may contain moisture or food-based spores.
Do: Use new, sturdy cardboard boxes or, even better, plastic totes with loosely fitting lids.
Don't: Wrap your items in plastic sheeting or use airtight sealed bags. This is a common mistake that traps moisture in with your belongings, creating a personal terrarium for mold.
Do: Consider adding desiccant packs (like silica gel) to boxes containing sensitive items like photos, books, or electronics. These packets actively absorb moisture from the air.
Your unit’s concrete floor is a major source of dampness and cold. Any box or piece of furniture sitting directly on it will absorb that moisture like a sponge. The solution is simple: elevate everything. Use wooden pallets, cinder blocks, or plastic shelving to create a buffer. This simple step protects your items from ground-level moisture and potential minor leaks.
Once your items are inside, don't just jam them in. Air circulation is your friend! When packing the unit, leave a small walkway down the center and a few inches of space between your belongings and the unit walls. This allows air to move freely, preventing moisture from settling in any one spot. Avoid stacking boxes right to the ceiling; leave a little breathing room up top as well.
Don’t let a damp Jackson winter ruin the items you care about—whether it’s your holiday decorations or that movie memorabilia that would look right at home at Rusty's TV & Movie Car Museum. By taking these preventive steps, you can ensure your belongings come out of storage in the exact same condition they went in.
If you’re in the 38305 area and looking for a secure solution, check out the local options. A quick look at the Hollywood Self Storage website shows they have a ton of