Whether you're traveling long-term, downsizing, storing inherited items, or simply preparing for a life transition, long-term storage is a smart solution. But keeping your belongings in storage for months—or even years—requires more than just packing a few boxes and locking the door. Long-term storage comes with unique challenges like dust, humidity, temperature shifts, and the risk of damage if items aren’t packed properly.
To help you protect your valuables and ensure they remain in excellent condition, here are the essential long-term storage tips you should know.
Temperature swings and humidity can cause:
Warped wood
Mold and mildew
Cracked leather
Damaged electronics
Rust on metal items
Climate-controlled units maintain a steady temperature and humidity level, making them ideal for:
Furniture
Electronics
Photos
Clothing
Appliances
Antiques
If you’re storing items long-term in Bloomington, IL, TGI Storage Bloomington offers clean, modern climate-controlled units to help protect your belongings.
Call (309) 490-9100 to see available unit sizes.
Cheap or flimsy boxes break down over time, especially in long-term storage. For best results:
Choose sturdy, uniform-sized boxes
Use plastic bins with tight lids for clothing and sentimental items
Avoid old grocery store boxes that may contain pests or bacteria
Durable containers keep items safe and prevent collapse during stacking.
Furniture is especially vulnerable during long-term storage. Protect it by:
Disassembling larger items like beds and tables
Covering wood furniture with breathable furniture pads
Avoiding plastic wraps directly on wood (they trap moisture)
Wrapping upholstered items to prevent dust accumulation
A little prep goes a long way in keeping your pieces looking like new.
Even in quality storage facilities, elevating items is a smart precaution. Use:
Pallets
Shelving units
Boards
Furniture sliders
This helps protect boxes and furniture from dust, potential moisture, and improves airflow.
Some items naturally collect moisture over time. Inside a long-term storage unit, this can lead to mold or deterioration.
Avoid storing:
Damp clothing
Wet outdoor gear
Recently washed items that aren’t fully dry
Moisture is the #1 enemy in long-term storage—everything must be completely dry before packing.
Electronics are extremely sensitive to both temperature and humidity.
Before storing:
Remove batteries
Wrap with anti-static materials
Use original packaging if available
Place electronics on shelves or inside sturdy boxes
Never store electronics directly on concrete floors.
Long-term storage means you may forget where things are months later. Clear, detailed labels on every box will save you time and frustration.
Label:
The contents
The category
Which room it belongs to
Whether it’s fragile
This makes it easier to track your belongings and access items when needed.
A simple layout of your storage unit can help you keep track of where everything is located. This is especially helpful for long-term renters who won’t visit often.
Put:
Seasonal items near the front
Heavy or rarely used items in the back
Frequently accessed boxes within reach
A storage map ensures you never waste time searching later.
Crowded, overpacked units trap heat and humidity. Leave at least a few inches of space between:
Boxes
Walls
Furniture
Good airflow reduces odors and helps prevent moisture buildup.
Long-term storage means you'll be away from your belongings for extended periods. This makes choosing the right facility crucial.
Look for:
Video surveillance
Clean, well-lit grounds
Controlled gate access
Climate-controlled units
Responsive management
If you're storing items long-term in Bloomington, TGI Storage Bloomington offers secure storage units designed to protect your belongings year-round. Their team delivers dependable service and clean, reliable units.
Call (309) 490-9100 to reserve your unit.
Long-term storage is a great solution for protecting valuable belongings through big life changes—whether you're traveling, renovating, moving, or simplifying your home. With the right packing strategies, climate control, and a trustworthy storage facility, you can ensure your belongings stay safe and in excellent condition.
For clean, secure, and affordable long-term storage solutions in Bloomington, IL, choose TGI Storage Bloomington. Your belongings will thank you.