You’ve got a pile of belongings that need storing. You’re wondering if non-climate storage can handle them with Knoxville’s unpredictable weather.
Maybe it’s outdoor furniture that’s been sitting on your deck. Or camping gear you only use twice a year. You’re not sure what can actually survive in a regular storage unit without climate control.
The last thing you want is to open your unit in six months and find everything covered in mold or warped from humidity.
The good news? Most items handle non-climate storage just fine when you know the rules. We’ll show you exactly which ones work and how to protect them from our local weather.
The Complete List: What Thrives in Non-Climate Storage
Outdoor and Recreational Equipment
These items already live outside or in your garage where they face the full range of weather conditions:
- Lawn mowers and garden tools
- Bicycles and scooters
- Camping gear and tents
- Kayaks and canoes
- Sports equipment and gear
They’re manufactured with materials like aluminum, steel, and high-grade plastics that handle our temperature swings from 31°F to 88°F without breaking a sweat.
Vehicles and Transportation
All of these are built for the elements since they spend their lives outdoors anyway:
- Cars and trucks
- Motorcycles and ATVs
- Boats and jet skis
- RVs and travel trailers
- Utility trailers
For humid conditions, just toss a few moisture absorbers inside enclosed vehicles like RVs or boat cabins to prevent that musty smell during sticky summer months. Make sure any enclosed spaces have proper ventilation with slightly cracked windows or vents to prevent mold-causing condensation buildup.
Durable Furniture and Household Items
These materials are completely unaffected by humidity and temperature fluctuations:
- Metal patio furniture
- Plastic outdoor chairs and tables
- Glass-top tables
- Stainless steel kitchen items (pots, pans, utensils)
- Basic appliances without sensitive electronics
- Manual tools and mechanical devices
Kitchen items like pots, pans, and non-wooden utensils store beautifully since stainless steel and aluminum won’t suffer damage from occasional temperature changes.
Seasonal and Holiday Items
Store these in sealed plastic bins rather than cardboard boxes for best results:
- Artificial Christmas trees
- Outdoor decorations and lights
- Patio umbrellas and outdoor cushions
- Holiday lights and extension cords
- Seasonal clothing in protective containers
The secret is using airtight plastic containers that create their own mini climate-controlled environment for these items in our local climate.
5 Simple Tricks to Protect Your Stuff in Non-Climate Storage
1. Beat the Humidity Game
Toss silica gel packets or DampRid containers into boxes, wardrobes, and any enclosed spaces, especially during July and August when our humidity peaks at 76%. Skip cardboard boxes entirely since they absorb moisture and turn into soggy messes during Tennessee summers.
2. Elevate Everything
Get your items off the ground using pallets or metal shelving since Knoxville gets about 51 inches of rain annually. This simple step prevents water damage from occasional leaks or condensation puddles and improves air circulation around your stored items.
3. Master the Timing
Move items in or out during early morning or evening hours, especially in summer when midday moves expose belongings to peak heat and humidity. Plan your storage trips around the weather forecast and avoid moving during thunderstorms or high humidity warnings.
4. Choose Your Covers Wisely
Use breathable furniture covers instead of plastic wrap on large items since plastic traps condensation and creates the perfect mold-growing environment. Breathable covers protect against dust while allowing air circulation, like putting your furniture in a raincoat that lets it breathe.
5. Schedule Monthly Check-Ins
A quick 10-minute visit each month can catch problems before they become disasters, especially during summer months. Look for early signs of moisture, unusual odors, or pest activity since catching issues early can save you hundreds in replacement costs.
Your Storage Decision Just Got a Lot Easier
Choosing non-climate storage doesn’t have to feel like a gamble when you know what works in Knoxville’s climate.
Your outdoor gear, vehicles, durable furniture, and holiday decorations will thrive in regular storage units.
The key is understanding that storage success isn’t just about the item itself. It’s about matching your belongings to our local weather patterns and storage timeline.
Ready to protect your belongings the right way? Call us at 865-687-3600 or visit our Primus Road or Maynardville Pike locations to see which storage option works for your needs and get 50% off your first month.