How to Decide If You Need Secure Climate-Controlled Self-Storage

Ian Horowitz • April 24, 2025

If you're decluttering your home, storing seasonal items, or managing inventory for your small business, it is a great idea to rent a secure self-storage unit. By doing so, you can step toward managing your space effectively. But you have to look over the security and climate protection too. But is it really necessary to go for a climate-controlled storage unit?

Let's break it down.

Do You Really Need Self-Storage?

The short answer: probably yes—if any of these situations sound familiar:

1. You're Running Out of Space at Home

If you're trying to create more space in your home, office, or garage, a small or medium self-storage unit offers a temporary (or long-term) solution without needing to part with your belongings.

2. You're Moving or Renovating

People often use storage units while relocating, preparing a home for sale, or remodeling. Storing furniture, appliances, and personal items during these transitions helps protect them from damage and keeps the space organized.

3. Your Business Needs Extra Room

Small business owners, especially those without a physical storefront, often use self-storage to manage inventory, tools, office furniture, and documents. It's more affordable than renting commercial space and offers flexibility as your business grows.

4. You Have Seasonal or Infrequently Used Items

Items like holiday decorations, camping gear, patio furniture, or sports equipment can take up valuable space at home. A secure storage unit can house these items safely until needed.

5. You are a Student

Students attending college away from home often use small storage units during summer breaks to store dorm room furniture and personal items.

Why Climate-Controlled Storage Might Be Essential: Is It What You Need?

In states like Louisiana, Arkansas, Texas, and Mississippi, humidity and extreme temperatures can affect a number of your belongings. That's where climate-controlled storage steps in. Climate-controlled units maintain a consistent temperature and humidity level to prevent damage from warping, rust, fading, cracking/peeling, heat, cold, moisture, mold, dust, pests, and various factors and protect your stored items.

When You Need Climate-Controlled Storage

Choose climate control if you're storing items sensitive to temperature extremes (freezing winters or hot summers), humidity, or moisture. If you're storing any of the following, climate-controlled storage becomes a necessity:

Electronics (TVs, computers, sound systems)
Furniture made of wood, leather, or upholstery
Paper documents and photographs
Musical instruments
Art, collectibles, or antiques
Photographs, books, and documents
Clothing and fabrics

How Long Are You Storing Items?

Short-term (a few weeks/months): May not need climate control unless items are extremely sensitive.
Long-term (6+ months): Climate control is a safer bet to protect your belongings from seasonal changes.

Which Type of Climate Is In Your Area?

Humid areas (like the South or coastal cities): Higher risk of mold—go with climate control.
Regions with big seasonal swings (hot summers + cold winters): Temperature fluctuations can damage items – climate control is required.
Dry, stable climates: You may get away without it for less sensitive items.
Areas with extreme temperatures: If you live in an area with temperatures below 32°F or above 90°F, climate-controlled storage is highly recommended.

Final Checklist: Ask Yourself…

Are my items sensitive to heat, cold, or moisture?
Am I storing anything valuable or sentimental?
Will I need to access the unit during odd hours?
Is the storage facility in a secure, well-maintained area?
Am I storing for more than 3–6 months?

How to Choose the Right Storage Unit Size

Selecting the appropriate unit size is key to efficient storage and cost-effectiveness. Here's a general breakdown of common unit sizes:

Size Description Common Uses

Size	Description	Common Uses
5x5	25 sq. ft.	Small closet – boxes, files, small decor
5x10	50 sq. ft.	Walk-in closet – seasonal gear, small furniture
10x10	100 sq. ft.	Fits furniture and belongings from a one-bedroom apartment, including sofas, mattresses, or dining sets.
10x20	200 sq. ft.	Three-bedroom house, large furniture sets, appliances, or a vehicle
10x30	300 sq. ft.	Large house move or business inventory

How to Prepare Items for Storage

To maximize space and preserve your belongings, consider the following storage prep tips:

Clean Everything First: Wipe down furniture, wash fabrics, and vacuum boxes to reduce the risk of mold or pests.
Use Plastic Bins Instead of Cardboard: Plastic bins provide better moisture protection and stack more securely.
Label All Boxes Clearly: Use permanent markers or printed labels for easy identification.
Disassemble Large Furniture: Take apart bed frames, remove table legs, and wrap parts to save space.
Protect Fragile Items: Use padding, bubble wrap, and furniture blankets for extra protection.
Leave Space Between Items: Allow for air circulation and easier access if you need to retrieve anything.

Connect With Square Space Storage

At Square Space Storage, we offer the best climate-controlled storage units at different locations across the country. With locations across Baton Rouge, Denham Springs, Pine Bluff, Jacksonville, Little Rock, Livingston, and more, you're never far from a clean, secure, and easy-to-access storage option.

At every Square Space Storage location, we go beyond just a lock and key. You can expect: