Tips for Protecting your Valuables in Self Storage - Climate-Controlled vs. Non-Climate Units in Florida
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October 28th, 2025
Florida’s warm, humid climate makes choosing the right storage unit essential — especially if you want to protect your valuables from heat, moisture, and long-term damage. At Lake City Self Storage, we know how much your belongings mean to you. Whether you rent a climate-controlled unit or a standard non-climate unit, these expert tips will help you store smart and keep everything safe year-round.
1. Understand the Florida Climate Humidity is the biggest enemy of stored items in the Sunshine State. When temperatures rise, moisture builds up - leading to mold, mildew, and rust.
Climate-controlled units regulate temperature and humidity, ideal for sensitive items.
Non-climate units are perfect for durable goods that can handle heat and airflow.
2. Choose the Right Unit for Your Items Climate-Controlled Units are best for:
Furniture (wood, leather, upholstery)
Electronics and appliances
Photos, artwork, and collectibles
Documents and keepsakes
Non-Climate Units work well for:
Outdoor gear and tools
Vehicles, lawn equipment, and bicycles
Plastic bins, metal furniture, or seasonal decorations
At Lake City Self Storage, we offer both options so you can find the perfect balance between protection and value.
3. Clean and Prep Everything Before Storing Before moving anything into storage, take time to clean and dry your items:
Wipe furniture and appliances with a mild cleaner.
Use dust covers or breathable fabric sheets (avoid plastic wrap — it traps moisture).
Make sure electronics and cords are completely dry before sealing them.
This simple step helps prevent corrosion, pests, and mildew inside your unit.
4. Elevate and Organize Even in well-maintained storage facilities, raising items a few inches off the ground adds an extra layer of protection.
Use wooden pallets or plastic shelving.
Keep boxes labeled and stack heavier ones on the bottom.
Leave walkways for airflow — it keeps humidity levels balanced.
5. Protect Against Florida’s Humidity A few affordable tools can make a huge difference:
Moisture absorbers or silica gel packs
Plastic bins with tight lids for small items
Climate-controlled storage if you’re keeping valuables long-term
Lake City’s humidity can fluctuate fast — climate control keeps it steady so your valuables stay dry and safe.
6. Invest in a Quality Lock Don’t overlook security! Choose a disc or cylinder lock for maximum protection. At Lake City Self Storage, every unit is provided a free disc lock , and our facility features gated access and 24-hour monitoring — so you can store with confidence.
7. Insure and Inventory Your Belongings Take photos or videos of your stored items, and keep a digital list. Consider storage insurance for added peace of mind — it’s affordable and covers unexpected events like storms or accidents.
8. Store Local, Store Smart When you store locally with Lake City Self Storage, you get:
Clean, secure, and accessible storage units
Climate-controlled and non-climate options
Convenient Lake City location near I-75
Friendly, Florida-proud staff who care about your belongings
Whether you’re moving, downsizing, or decluttering, we’ll help you find the right unit and keep your valuables protected — rain or shine.
Pro Tip: If you’re storing for more than 3 months in Florida, always choose climate control for anything heat-sensitive. It’s a small investment that prevents thousands in damage.
Ready to Reserve? Visit Lake City Self Storage today or call us to reserve your storage unit — and experience why our facility is Lake City’s trusted choice for secure, affordable storage.
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