How to Safely Store Photos & Books in a Storage Unit

Storing Photos & Books in a Storage Unit in Anaheim, CA

There’s something special about holding an old photograph in your hands. Whether it’s a faded snapshot of your grandparents’ wedding or a candid picture from your high school graduation, photos have a way of taking us back in time. But as sentimental as these treasures are, they’re fragile. Photos can fade, curl, or get water-damaged if not stored properly.

Books are another item close to many people’s hearts. Maybe it’s a rare first edition signed by the author, a collection of your favorite series, or your great-grandmother’s cookbook. No matter the case, books hold memories in their pages. And similar to photos, they’re vulnerable to the elements. If you’ve run out of shelf space or want to protect your precious keepsakes, consider moving them to a storage unit in Anaheim.

Why Store Photos and Books Offsite?

The value of a photo isn’t measured in dollars but in memories. The same goes for books, especially those with sentimental or historical significance. Storing these items properly ensures they last for generations to come.

While your first instinct might be to keep these treasures at home, there are plenty of reasons to consider storing them in a secure self-storage unit. Here are a few:

• Lack of space: Let’s face it—photo albums, boxes of loose prints, and shelves full of books take up lots of space. If you’re downsizing, decluttering, or simply don’t have enough room, a storage unit is a practical solution.
• Home renovations: Are you starting a remodeling project? You don’t want dust, debris, or accidents to damage your photos and books. Storing them offsite keeps them safe until your home is back in order.
• Climate control: California’s heat and humidity can wreak havoc on delicate items like photos and books. Storing them in a climate-controlled unit, rather than your attic, crawlspace, or shed, protects them from temperature fluctuations and moisture.
• Protection from disasters: Natural disasters like wildfires, floods, and earthquakes are the reality of living in Southern California. Storing your valuable photos and books offsite gives you peace of mind, knowing they’re safe from potential damage at home.

Tips for Storing Photos in a Self-Storage Unit

Photos require special care to ensure they stay in good condition. Follow these tips to preserve them properly:

• Make digital backups: First things first—before you put your photos in storage, scan them and make digital copies. This ensures that even if something happens to the physical prints, you’ll still have the memories.
• Use photo-safe storage materials: Place your photos in archival-quality, acid-free boxes or photo albums. These materials are specifically designed to protect photos from fading and yellowing. Avoid using plastic bags or containers that trap moisture.
• Don’t over-pack boxes: When storing loose photos, don’t cram too many into one box. This can lead to curling or damage to the edges. Leave a little room so the photos aren’t compressed.
• Avoid direct contact: If you’re storing framed photos, place a layer of acid-free tissue paper between the frame and the glass to prevent the photo from sticking.
• Label and organize: Remember to label each box or album with the events or dates they contain so you can easily find specific photos in the future.

Tips for Storing Books in a Self-Storage Unit

Books might seem more durable than photos, but they’re just as susceptible to damage if not stored properly. Here’s how to keep them in tip-top shape:

• Clean and dry your books: Dust can attract pests, and moisture can lead to mold or mildew, so make sure your books are clean and dry before storing them. A quick wipe with a dry cloth should do the trick.
• Use proper containers: Store books in sturdy, acid-free boxes or plastic bins with tight-fitting lids. Avoid cardboard boxes, as they can deteriorate over time and attract pests.
• Pack books upright: If possible, store books upright, just like on a shelf, to prevent warping or bending. If you must lay them flat, don’t stack too many on top of each other, as the weight can damage the spines.
• Avoid direct sunlight: When placing books in a storage unit, make sure they’re not exposed to direct sunlight, as this can cause the covers to fade. Keep them in a dark, cool area of the unit.
• Add desiccants: Moisture is the enemy of books, so toss a few desiccant packets (like those you find packed with new pairs of shoes) into each box or container. These packets absorb excess moisture to keep your books safe and dry.
• Leave some airflow: Avoid packing your storage unit too tightly. Leave some space around the boxes to allow air circulation so musty smells don’t develop.

What to Look for in a Self-Storage Unit in Anaheim, CA

Not all storage units are suitable for storing sentimental items like photos and books. You’ll need to find a facility that offers the right features to avoid damage. Here’s what to keep in mind:

• Climate-controlled units: Anaheim’s weather can be unpredictable, so a climate-controlled unit is necessary to protect your items from temperature swings and moisture.
• Security: Your memories are priceless, so security is a top priority. Look for a storage facility with advanced security features like 24-hour surveillance, gated access, and individual unit alarms.
• Accessibility: If you plan to visit your storage unit regularly, choose a facility with a convenient location and flexible access hours.
• Cleanliness: A clean facility indicates that the staff maintains the property and keeps it free from pests. You don’t want to store your precious photos and books in a place that could be infested with bugs or rodents.
• Reputation and reviews: Take the time to read reviews from other customers. A longstanding, highly rated facility is a good sign that your items will be safe and secure.

Pouch Self Storage Is Your Best Bet

When storing your precious memories in Anaheim, look no further than Pouch Self Storage. We have nine convenient locations, climate-controlled units, and state-of-the-art security, making us an industry leader you can trust. Whether you’re storing photos, books, or other cherished belongings, you can count on us to keep them safe and sound. Contact us today to set up a tour and find the perfect storage unit for your needs.