Winter Storage Tips: Protecting Your Belongings in Cold Weather 

Cold temperatures, dry air, and fluctuating humidity can do a number on the things you pack away. But don’t worry, storing items in chilly weather doesn’t have to feel like navigating the Arctic. How do you store your belongings in cold weather? Let’s break it down.

How to Pack Items for Cold Weather

When it comes to winter dressing, the trick is to think layers. Turns out, the same goes for your stuff.

Wrap it right: Use thick blankets, towels, or bubble wrap to keep fragile items from touching cold surfaces. Plastic bins are great, but toss in a moisture absorber to keep dampness out.

Double up on protection: For anything fabric (clothes, linens, upholstered furniture), pack it away clean and dry. Then add an extra barrier—like vacuum-sealed bags or lidded totes—to keep out dust and cold air.

Avoid over-packing: Overstuffed boxes can warp or split in extreme cold. Give everything room to breathe—literally.

Skip the plastic covers: They trap moisture, and trapped moisture is mold’s best friend. Use breathable fabric covers instead for things like furniture or mattresses.

Stocking Your Storage Unit for Cold Weather

Just like you might prep your home for winter, your storage space deserves the same attention.

Keep items off the ground: Concrete gets cold and damp, especially in winter. Use pallets or shelves to raise items up and prevent moisture damage.

Leave space between items: Don’t pack everything tight against the walls. This allows airflow and keeps cold air from freezing things into place.

Use desiccants or moisture absorbers: Cheap, easy, and super helpful. Toss them into boxes or storage bins to fight off condensation.

Rotate seasonally: If you’ll be checking in on your storage, rotate items every few months. It helps reduce long-term pressure on boxes and gives you a chance to tidy up if needed.

Do You Need Climate-Controlled Storage in the Winter?

Short answer: if your items don’t like temperature swings, then yes.

Climate-controlled storage units maintain consistent temperature and humidity levels, protecting against warping, cracking, and mildew. This is a great pick if you’re storing things like:

• Electronics
• Musical instruments
• Photos
• Leather or wood furniture

Not everything needs this type of unit, but if you’re storing delicate items that are sensitive to extreme temps,  it can be a worthy investment.

Winter doesn’t have to be the enemy of well-organized storage. With the right prep and a little cold-weather know-how, you can pack away your items and welcome them back in spring just the way you left them.