How to Protect Your Belongings from Mould
Lately, we’ve had a lot of questions from customers asking:
“Will my furniture go mouldy in storage?”
It’s a valid concern, especially with all the rain we’ve had recently. Moisture in the air, combined with poor ventilation, creates the perfect environment for mould, mildew, and musty smells to develop inside storage units.
So what’s the difference between ventilated storage and shipping container storage, and why does it matter for your stuff?
Let’s break it down.
🧱 What Is Ventilated Storage?
Ventilated storage refers to storage units that are specifically designed to allow airflow. At Big Box Self Storage, every unit is built with built-in ventilation systems that promote air circulation, reduce humidity buildup, and help prevent moisture from settling on your belongings.
Whether you’re storing furniture, clothing, mattresses, or electronics, airflow is essential for keeping your items in good condition over time.
📦 What Is Shipping Container Storage?
Shipping containers, often used by some storage companies as a cheaper alternative, are designed for transport, not long-term storage. These steel boxes are sealed tightly to keep out water, but they’re also completely unventilated. That means zero airflow, and once moisture gets in, it stays in.
During hot days followed by cool nights (or after heavy rain), condensation can form inside the container. Over time, that leads to:
* Mould on furniture and fabrics
* Rust on tools or appliances
* Warped wood
* A damp, musty smell that’s hard to remove
💨 Why Ventilation Matters (Especially After Rain)
When there’s no ventilation, moisture has nowhere to go. Even small amounts of dampness, like what’s left on a cardboard box after rain can turn into a full-on mould problem within days. And with all the recent wet weather we’ve had, we’ve seen an increase in concerns about this.
At Big Box Self Storage, our ventilated units allow air to circulate naturally, reducing the risk of:
* Condensation build-up
* Mould and mildew forming on furniture
* Bad odours lingering in your unit
* Moisture-related damage to stored goods
🪑 Furniture and Mould: What You Need to Know
Wooden furniture, upholstered chairs, couches, and mattresses are high-risk items when stored in damp or unventilated spaces. Once mould takes hold, it can be extremely difficult (and expensive) to remove.
Here’s why proper ventilation is essential for furniture storage:
* Mould spores thrive in dark, still environments
* Upholstery absorbs moisture easily
* Lack of airflow prevents drying, even if the item was only slightly damp to begin with
If you’re planning to store household goods for more than a few weeks, ventilation should be at the top of your checklist.
✅ Why Choose Big Box Self Storage?
We built Big Box Self Storage with customer concerns in mind. All our units are on the ground floor, weatherproof, and most importantly, ventilated. You don’t have to worry about musty air or moisture damage here.
Compared to shipping container storage, our units offer:
* Consistent airflow to prevent moisture build-up
* Protection from condensation, even after heavy rain
* Better long-term care for your furniture and fabrics
* Peace of mind when storing items of value
Don’t Let Mould Catch You Off Guard
If you’re researching storage options and wondering about mould risks, it’s smart to think beyond price and location. Look for a facility that prioritises airflow, especially if you’re storing anything that could absorb moisture.
At Big Box Self Storage, we understand how important your belongings are—and we’ve built our facility to protect them. Whether it’s been raining for days or the sun’s out, your items stay dry, ventilated, and safe.