As autumn rain settles over Cowichan, many locals begin the familiar ritual of preparing for another wet season. From drenched shoes to fogged-up windows, moisture becomes a part of daily life in the Cowichan Valley. But inside a storage unit, a little dampness can turn into a big problem if not handled properly. Here’s how to keep your belongings clean, dry, and mold-free through the rainy months.
Understand the Cowichan Climate
Cowichan’s beauty comes with a price: humidity. Between October and March, high moisture levels can quickly seep into porous materials like cardboard, fabric, and wood. Even in well-built storage facilities, condensation can develop inside boxes or under tarps. The goal isn’t to eliminate humidity—it’s to manage it.
Choose the Right Containers
Cardboard is fine for short-term storage in dry seasons, but it’s not your friend in the fall. Use plastic bins with tight-fitting lids for clothes, bedding, and paper materials. Label them clearly so you won’t have to rummage later. For tools or metal items, avoid sealed plastic where trapped moisture can linger—opt instead for ventilated bins or breathable fabric covers.
Keep Items Elevated
Wooden pallets or plastic risers lift your belongings off the ground, protecting them from minor leaks or condensation buildup on the concrete. Even a small layer of airflow can make a huge difference in preventing mold from forming underneath furniture or boxes.
Protect Fabrics and Furniture
Wrap upholstered furniture with breathable covers—not plastic, which traps moisture. A simple cotton sheet works well. For mattresses, use specialized storage bags that let air circulate. Leather goods benefit from a light coat of conditioner before storage to prevent cracking or mildew.Use Moisture Absorbers
Invest in desiccant packs, silica gel, or moisture-absorbing buckets. These low-cost tools can keep your unit significantly drier. Check them every few weeks if possible and replace when saturated. Even a few inexpensive products can save you from hundreds in damage.
Avoid Storing These Items in Damp Months
Anything that holds or reacts to moisture—like food, candles, or electronics—should be kept elsewhere. If you must store electronics, wrap them in anti-static bags and place silica gel packets inside.
Take Advantage of SHQ’s Access and Security
Storage HQ’s 24/7 keypad entry and on-site security cameras make it easy to visit anytime. You can check your unit after a heavy storm, add moisture absorbers, or simply reorganize items without worrying about business hours. The flexibility makes maintaining your space stress-free, even through the soggiest months.
Final Thoughts
A little planning goes a long way when the weather turns wet. By using proper containers, keeping items elevated, and monitoring moisture levels, you can protect your belongings from the Cowichan rain. Storage HQ in Duncan provides secure self-storage and outdoor parking that stays accessible all year—ideal for keeping your space at home dry, tidy, and ready for the holidays ahead.
Looking for more reliable storage options beyond Cowichan?
Check out our other facilities:
Covered Keeper – coveredkeeper.com
Legal Self Storage – legalselfstorage.com
Cheswold Storage – cheswoldstorage.com
