If you're planning a move to the Southwest, climate-controlled storage could be the right choice for your belongings. Certain household materials are particularly susceptible to damage from heat and temperature fluctuations. The Southwest United States, with its diverse and sometimes extreme weather patterns, is a region where climate-controlled storage is not just a luxury but a necessary need. States like Arizona, New Mexico, Utah, and parts of Texas, known for their high temperatures, especially during summer, make this type of storage a must-have.

The Southwest is also known for its high daytime and significantly lower nighttime temperatures. These fluctuations between day and night can be harsh on your belongings. Climate-control storage provides a secure shield, protecting personal and business items from high heat and extreme temperature swings when daytime heat gives way to much cooler nights. Here are some tips on how to prepare your belongings for climate-controlled storage in the Southwest.

How to Prepare Leather Furniture for Climate-Controlled Storage in the Southwest

From leather sofas and recliners to bar stools and headboards, leather furniture is frequently used in Southwestern interior design for homes. When exposed to fluctuating temperature and humidity levels, leather can become stiff, cracked, or musty. To prepare your leather furniture for climate-controlled storage in the Southwest, start by thoroughly cleaning the leather surfaces using a soft cloth and a gentle leather cleaner to remove dirt and oils.

Once cleaned, apply a leather conditioner to prevent the material from drying out in the arid climate. Disassemble any removable parts, such as legs or cushions, to make moving and storing easier. Wrap the furniture in breathable, dust-resistant covers, avoiding plastic that can trap moisture and cause mold. When storing, avoid placing heavy items on top of the leather pieces to prevent indentations or damage. Choose a climate-controlled storage unit to ensure a stable temperature and humidity level, which is important for preserving leather furniture in the Southwest's extreme heat and dry conditions.

ARIZONA MOVING TIPS: Arizona is known for its hot desert climate, especially in the southern part of the state, but it also has areas with more moderate temperatures. Summers are extremely hot, particularly in the Sonoran Desert, with temperatures often exceeding 110°F. Phoenix and Tucson regularly experience some of the highest temperatures in the country. Arizona's winters and springs are an ideal time to move.

Climate Controlled Storage For Clothes And Fabrics

To prepare your clothing and other fabric for storage in the Southwest, thoroughly clean and dry all items to prevent stains and odors from permanently setting. After cleaning, fold or roll your clothing neatly and store it in breathable containers. Place expensive clothing, like business suites and formal wear, in breathable garment bags to hang in wardrobe boxes. You can purchase wardrobe moving boxes, specifically designed with an aluminum rod for hanging clothing, at your local self storage facility.

Fabrics and textiles, such as clothing, upholstery, and bedding, are prone to absorbing moisture from the air. Even in dry climates, humidity can lead to mold growth and deterioration. A climate-controlled storage unit ensures that your clothing and upholstered furnishings remain dry and free from mildew, preserving their quality and longevity.

TEXAS (SOUTH/SOUTHWEST) MOVING TIPS: Due to its large size, Texas has a varied climate, ranging from dry in the west to subtropical in the east. Summers are generally hot throughout the state, with temperatures often exceeding 100°F, especially in central and western Texas. Coastal areas like Houston and Richmond experience high humidity, making the heat feel more intense during a move. Winters are mild in the southern and coastal regions, while the northern and western parts of the state can experience colder temperatures and occasional snowfall.

Prepare Your Wooden Furniture For Climate Controlled Storage

To prepare wood furniture—dining room tables, chairs, end tables, bed frames, bar stools, dressers, and nightstands—for storage in the Southwest, thoroughly clean and condition all surfaces. Give your items time to dry thoroughly before placing them in a storage unit. Professional moving companies advise not to wrap wood furniture in plastic but to use moving blankets, which you can then secure with tape or stretch wrap.

Heirloom and wooden furniture are susceptible to moisture, heat, and cold. In the Southwest, the combination of dry heat and occasional humidity can cause wood to expand and contract, leading to warping or cracking. Climate-controlled storage maintains a stable environment, helping to prevent these issues and keeping your wooden items in pristine condition.

COLORADO MOVING TIPS: Colorado's climate varies widely due to its diverse elevations and geography. Summers are warm to hot, especially in the eastern plains, where temperatures often reach the 90s°F in cities like Denver and Colorado Springs. Winters in Colorado can be very cold, with heavy snowfall in mountainous regions and occasional snow in the eastern plains.

Climate Control Storage Offers Consistent Temperature and Humidity

The key advantage of climate-controlled storage is its ability to regulate both temperature and humidity. High desert regions in Southwest states frequently experience significant temperature swings during summer months in addition to cold and wet rainy seasons. Climate-controlled storage facilities help to protect items from the adverse effects of extreme weather conditions. These state-of-the-art facilities typically feature interior or covered loading bays, protecting you and your moving boxes and furniture during a move.

UTAH MOVING TIPS: Like other Southwest states we've mentioned, Utah also experiences a wide range of climates due to its varied topography. However, the state generally has a semi-arid climate, with hot summers and cold winters. Summer temperatures can soar above 100°F. Winters are cold and wet, especially in the northern and mountainous regions like Salt Lake City and Park City.

Southwest Climate-Controlled Storage With StorQuest

Climate-controlled storage gives you the ultimate peace of mind that your valuables are being taken care of, whether moving to a new home or doing the things you love most. StorQuest understands the importance of safeguarding your belongings. That's why we offer climate-controlled storage units with consistent temperature and humidity levels all year round to ensure your household, business, and personal items like outdoor gear stay in excellent condition.