{"id":17951,"date":"2023-04-26T09:01:03","date_gmt":"2023-04-26T13:01:03","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.morningstarstorage.com\/?p=17951"},"modified":"2023-04-12T13:15:06","modified_gmt":"2023-04-12T17:15:06","slug":"using-self-storage-to-keep-family-heirlooms-safe-secure","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.morningstarstorage.com\/storage-insights\/using-self-storage-to-keep-family-heirlooms-safe-secure\/","title":{"rendered":"Using Self-Storage to Keep Family Heirlooms Safe & Secure"},"content":{"rendered":"

Whether you\u2019re a big fan of PBS Network\u2019s Antiques Roadshow or are tasked with acting as your family\u2019s archivist, it\u2019s very common to accumulate some fragile and especially precious belongings that require special handling and storage.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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In most instances, storing these items requires more effort than just keeping a few boxes tucked away in your attic or basement, especially if these areas are not temperature controlled and are prone to rising moisture levels.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Self-storage is a great solution! A lot of self-storage facilities offer climate-controlled units that will keep your things well-preserved for many more years to come. But when it comes to properly storing those more delicate and sentimental items, there are a few very important factors you\u2019ll want to consider in order to keep everything in the best condition possible. Here\u2019s what you need to know:<\/span><\/p>\n

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Step 1: Select the Right Storage Solution<\/b><\/h2>\n

There\u2019s a reason why your own basement or garage isn\u2019t cutting it to store these important items anymore so it\u2019s important to find the right storage setup to do the job.<\/span><\/p>\n

For one, you\u2019re going to want to make sure it\u2019s a safe and secure facility with a good reputation. Be sure to learn about the security measures in place (Are there cameras? An onsite person? Do you need a code, a key, or a card to get in and out of the facility?) and do your own research on what others have to say about their experience with the company.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Another thing to consider is what level of access you will have to your unit at all times. Do they allow you access anytime or do you have to visit during specific business hours? While you might not need to go digging out your great-grandmother\u2019s hand-woven doilies at 2 o\u2019clock in the morning, it\u2019s nice to know that you can get to your things 24\/7. Morningstar Storage offers you convenient access to our facilities around the clock.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

No matter what, you\u2019re going to want to find a climate-controlled storage unit because the items you\u2019re storing should be in a stable temperature and dry area at all times. Avoid the heartbreak of finding moldy and mildewy items like you would if you stored them in a dark, damp basement or garage.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2192 <\/small><\/span>Morningstar Storage Pros Tip<\/span>: <\/small><\/b>Do you have an expensive wine collection that you\u2019re hoping to leave in a safe, temp-controlled place? Self-storage units are a great option! Learn more about proper storage techniques for wine connoisseurs.\u00a0<\/small><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

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Since you\u2019re storing your priceless and valuable family heirlooms, you should be picky about where you decide to do so. After all, there are a lot of options out there on the market, but not all of them are going to fit your exact needs. <\/span>Ask the important questions first<\/span><\/a>, and take your time in deciding on the right place to call home for those all-important belongings.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

That being said, not everything belongs in a storage unit! There are some things that <\/span>shouldn\u2019t end up sitting in a public, self-storage spot<\/span><\/a> \u2013 namely anything that\u2019s alive, can expire, holds a strong scent, or isn\u2019t yours to store (as in, stolen goods\u2026).\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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Step 2: Safely Pack Things Up for Storage<\/b><\/h2>\n

You\u2019ve found the right storage facility to house your precious items \u2013 now what? It\u2019s time to get packing! It\u2019s especially important when dealing with delicate items such as old books, photographs, or fine china, that you make sure you\u2019re <\/span>using the right packing materials<\/span><\/a>.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n