We all have a few items that are simply irreplaceable, family heirlooms passed down for generations, cherished photo albums, handwritten letters from loved ones. These pieces hold more than just monetary value, they’re full of memories, history, and emotion. So when it comes time to store them, you want to make sure they’re protected with care. Whether you're preparing for a move, clearing space at home, or just wanting to preserve your family's legacy, knowing how to properly store the important items can make all the difference.
Unlike furniture or tools, family heirlooms are often more delicate and sensitive to their surroundings. Things like humidity, temperature changes, and dust can cause long-term damage, fading photos, warped wood, or musty smells in old fabrics. There are smart and affordable ways to protect your keepsakes in a regular storage space. It all comes down to how you pack and how you store.
Let’s walk through the best ways to pack your valuables, with an extra focus on protecting them from heat, cold, and moisture.
Photos are especially vulnerable to fading, curling, and sticking together if not stored properly. Here’s how to protect them:
Use archival-quality boxes or envelopes – Acid-free, lignin-free containers prevent yellowing over time.
Avoid direct plastic contact – Some plastics trap moisture and can cause photos to stick or warp. Use paper separators or photo-safe sleeves if needed.
Keep photos flat – Stack them gently, and avoid over-packing the box.
Wrap boxes in cotton fabric – This gives them a breathable layer and added protection from temperature changes.
Label everything – Dates, names, places—you’ll thank yourself later!
Paper doesn’t handle temperature swings or humidity well. Here's how to keep it safe:
Store in acid-free folders or envelopes – Just like photos, this helps prevent discoloration and deterioration.
Use hard plastic bins – Choose bins with tight lids to keep out dust and moisture. Avoid cardboard, which can absorb humidity.
Place items flat – Don't fold or cram them into tight spaces.
Add silica gel packets – These help absorb excess moisture in the container.
Delicate family keepsakes need cushioning and smart packing:
Wrap each item individually – Use bubble wrap, foam, or soft cloth to protect against bumps and temperature shifts.
Use small, sturdy boxes – The less air space, the less chance of movement and breakage.
Fill any gaps with packing paper, towels, or cloth to keep items secure.
Clearly label as fragile – So you and anyone helping know to handle it with care.
Fabric items can attract dust, moisture, and even pests if not packed properly:
Clean before storing – Dirt and oils can become permanent stains over time.
Avoid plastic bags – These trap moisture and can lead to mildew. Instead, use breathable cotton pillowcases or wrap in acid-free tissue paper.
Store flat or loosely rolled – Avoid tight folds that can cause creasing or wear.
Add cedar chips or lavender sachets – To naturally deter pests, but keep them in pouches so they don’t touch the fabric directly.
Even in a traditional unit, you can create a safer environment for your valuables. Here’s how:
Use plastic bins with tight-sealing lids – They offer better protection than cardboard against moisture, pests, and dust.
Line the floor – Place pallets or tarps down first to keep items elevated and away from potential ground moisture.
Use breathable materials – Avoid sealing items in plastic wrap. Use cloth or paper-based materials to allow airflow and prevent mold.
Avoid storing near the door – Temperature changes tend to be more extreme near the front of the unit.
Check the unit regularly – Stop by every few months to make sure everything looks good and dry.
Before you close the lid on your boxes, take photos of the contents. This not only gives you peace of mind, but also helps in case anything ever needs to be replaced or insured.
Your memories deserve a little extra care. Even without climate control, you can keep your family’s history safe by following these simple tips. With the right containers, materials, and a little planning, your heirlooms will be ready to pass down to the next generation, just as they should be.
At Centennial Storage, we’re proud to offer clean, secure units. Whether you’re storing a few sentimental boxes or your entire household, we’re here to help you do it the right way.
Give us a call or visit our size guide to find the right place to store the things most important to you. We’ll help you find the right space, and show you how to store smart, even without climate control.
