If you’ve lived through a few Renfrew winters, you know how cold and damp it can get. Freezing temperatures, snow, and fluctuating humidity can wreak havoc on furniture, tools, and seasonal gear if they’re not stored properly.
At Access 17 Self Storage, we know that keeping your items dry, protected, and well-packed is the key to getting them through winter in great shape. Here’s how to prepare your belongings for storage — no climate control required.
Dirt, dust, and road salt can cause serious damage over time. Before putting anything in storage, make sure to:
Wipe down and dry all surfaces to remove moisture and residue.
Wash fabrics and clothing to prevent musty smells and mildew.
Wax or polish wooden furniture to create a protective barrier.
Empty and clean appliances like fridges or freezers before storing.
Even simple cleaning helps prevent rust, mold, and discoloration during long-term storage.
Moisture is your biggest winter enemy. Instead of using cardboard boxes that absorb dampness, opt for:
✅ Plastic totes with tight lids to seal out moisture and pests.
✅ Bubble wrap or moving blankets to insulate fragile items.
✅ Plastic sheeting or tarps under boxes to keep them off cold concrete floors.
✅ Moisture absorbers or silica packs inside bins to prevent condensation.
Pro tip: Store heavier bins at the bottom and lighter ones on top to avoid crushing.
Wood and upholstered furniture can easily absorb moisture or warp if not stored correctly.
Here’s how to protect them:
Disassemble furniture (legs, shelves, etc.) and wrap each piece in moving blankets.
Cover items loosely with breathable fabric covers — not plastic wrap, which traps moisture.
Elevate furniture on pallets or boards to keep it off the ground.
This simple step helps air circulate and protects against cold, damp concrete floors.
If you’re storing lawnmowers, snowblowers, ATVs, or tools, a few quick steps can prevent rust and corrosion:
Drain fuel or add a fuel stabilizer to small engines.
Apply a light coat of oil or WD-40 to metal surfaces to prevent rust.
Wipe down tools and keep them in sealed containers with desiccant packs.
Disconnect and remove any batteries and store them indoors if possible.
Keeping equipment dry and rust-free now will save you costly repairs come spring.
Even in non–climate-controlled units, you can control moisture effectively:
Place DampRid, baking soda, or charcoal briquettes around your unit to absorb humidity.
Leave small gaps between boxes and walls to encourage airflow.
Avoid sealing boxes too tightly — some ventilation is better than none.
Regularly checking on your unit once or twice during winter can also help catch any early signs of moisture.
When you’re bundled up in the middle of January, you won’t want to dig through stacks of bins to find one thing.
Label all boxes clearly and make a quick sketch or list of where items are located in your storage unit. It’s one of those small details that makes a big difference when you need to grab something quickly.
A little preparation goes a long way. By cleaning, sealing, and packing smart, you can confidently store your belongings through even the coldest Ottawa Valley months — without worrying about damage.
At Access 17 Self Storage in Renfrew, our secure, drive-up storage units make it easy to load and unload your items safely, even in winter weather.
👉 Reserve your unit today at www.access17selfstorage.ca and enjoy peace of mind knowing your belongings are safe, dry, and ready for spring.