If you’re planning on storing your furniture for any length of time, you’ll need to take some steps to prevent it from molding. Furniture is susceptible to mold growth due to its porous nature and high moisture content. Mold can cause structural damage to furniture and pose a health risk to humans. Fortunately, there are some simple things you can do to keep your furniture mold-free while in storage.
Don’t store furniture in damp or humid areas
One of the easiest ways to protect furniture from molding in storage is to ensure it is not in a damp or humid area. To prevent your furniture from developing mold, always check for signs of condensation before storing items.
Use a dehumidifier to reduce the humidity in the environment and keep stored items dry. Choose a climate-controlled storage unit or facility, as this will help maintain proper temperature and humidity levels even during times of extreme heat or cold.
By avoiding damp or humid environments while storing your furniture, you will take an effective step toward protecting them from mold accumulation.
Use a dehumidifier in the storage area
To keep furniture from molding in storage, it is important to invest in a dehumidifier if possible. Dehumidifiers work by removing the humidity from an enclosed space, mitigating the spread of mold and mildew that can quickly damage furniture.
Dehumidifiers are relatively inexpensive, making them an excellent investment for anyone who needs to protect their furniture.
A single unit can sufficiently reduce the moisture levels in a room or storage area up to 500 sq. ft., making them ideal for both large and smaller areas. When used properly, a dehumidifier can stop the spread of mold on most pieces of furniture before it becomes an issue.
Wipe down furniture with a mild solution of soap and water before storing
Whenever you need to store furniture for a lengthy period, it’s essential to ensure that mold does not build up and damage the items. One simple way to prevent this is to wipe the furniture with a mild mix of soap and water before storing it.
Doing so will remove any dirt or grime that might otherwise be an ideal breeding ground for mold, extending the lifespan of your furniture and helping you get the maximum use out of it.
It is worth noting that soap and water work on virtually all furniture types without causing damage in most cases, meaning it’s an affordable and low-effort form of maintenance that can go a long way in preserving your possessions.
Cover furniture with a breathable fabric before storing
Taking the necessary steps to protect furniture while in storage is critical to ensure it remains in good condition. A great way to maintain cleanliness, especially during the humid summer months, is to cover items in breathable fabric before storage.
This type of fabric will allow air to flow around and prevent moisture from building up on the item, thus reducing the likelihood of mold formation.
By using a breathable fabric, you can avoid damage from sunlight or indoor lighting which can also lead to mold accumulation. Investing in quality fabric is worth it when caring for pricey furniture and can help maintain its value over time.
Check on stored furniture periodically
Storing furniture can be a great way to preserve and expand capacity in your home, but it’s important to check up on stored items periodically. If the conditions are right, mold can cultivate over time and make any furniture unusable.
To keep this from happening, it’s good practice to examine stored furniture every 3-6 months. Inspect everything for signs of visible mold growth, must, or discoloration, and take steps like airing out the furniture or increasing ventilation around it if needed.
It’s also beneficial to store items in airtight containers when possible, as humidity levels can contribute to mold growth. Taking these precautions may require some extra effort, but doing so will ensure that your beloved furniture pieces stay just as pristine as when they were first placed in storage.
By following these simple tips, you can help keep your furniture in good condition while it’s in storage.
About Xtra Storage Companies –
Are you looking for affordable and reliable public storage in Miami to store your clothing items and other accessories? Xtra Storage Companies is your one-stop destination! Our self-storage units are safe, affordable, and climate-controlled to maintain your articles in the best possible condition. We also have self-storage units of all sizes to meet your requirements. You can reach out to us by filling out our online contact form.