How to prevent moisture in storage boxes is one of the biggest challenges when using shipping containers for any situation.
They are made of steel, which is susceptible to rust and corrosion when exposed to moisture for long periods. Excessive humidity can damage goods, cause mold growth, damage packaging, and decrease product quality.
Therefore, you must know how to prevent moisture in storage boxes, especially if you use them for long-term storage and if you put your storage boxes in an unheated or non-climate-controlled space with high humidity.
This article will discuss how to prevent moisture in storage boxes that can result in several unfavorable consequences if not addressed immediately. Read until the end!
The Danger of Moisture Build-Up
High humidity in storage boxes can be caused by several factors, such as sudden temperature changes and water vapor condensation.
If humidity is not controlled properly, it can cause various serious problems, including:
Damage to Goods
Goods that are sensitive to humidity, such as electronics, food, textiles, and medicines, can be damaged if exposed to high humidity.
For example, electronic components can corrode, food can be contaminated with mold, and clothing can become damp or smell bad.
Fungal and Bacterial Growth
Excessive humidity creates an ideal environment for the growth of fungi and bacteria. Fungi can grow on wood, leather, or textiles, while bacteria can damage food and pharmaceutical products.
Damage to Packaging
High humidity can damage product packaging, even peeling or wrinkling. This not only damages the appearance of the product but also reduces its appeal to consumers.
Loss of Product Value
Damage due to humidity can reduce the value of the product, reduce its shelf life, and even make the product unsaleable.
How To Prevent Moisture in Storage Boxes
To prevent the problem of humidity in your storage boxes, there are various methods that you can use. These various solutions aim to keep the conditions inside the container dry and safe:
Control the Environment
Place the container on a pallet or shelf to avoid condensation from the floor, or keep it off the ground. Also, avoid basements or areas prone to humidity if you can.
Add Moisture Absorbers
One of the best ways to reduce humidity in containers is to use moisture absorbers. Moisture absorbers work by binding water vapor in the air, creating a dry and safe environment for the goods being shipped.
There are several types of moisture absorbers that you can use in containers, including:
- Silica gel packs: These are great for small containers.
- Desiccant packs: Industrial-size versions work well for large storage bins.
- Charcoal briquettes: Wrapped in cloth or inside a container, they absorb moisture and odor.
- Baking soda or kitty litter: Both absorb moisture and can be replaced regularly.
By using the right moisture absorber, you can ensure that the humidity inside the container remains under control during the trip.
Prep Items Before Storing
Clean and dry items thoroughly before packing them away. Avoid packing anything damp as a little moisture can cause mold.
Ventilation
If the container is not completely airtight (like a shed or shipping container), install a ventilation fan or vent covers to keep air circulating. Good ventilation is an important factor in reducing humidity in the container.
By providing adequate airflow, moisture trapped in the container can escape, and fresh air can enter, keeping humidity under control.
You can install ventilation holes at several points in your container. Make sure that the ventilation holes are not blocked by anything to ensure good airflow and help prevent condensation inside the container.
However, you can also use additional ventilation if it is not effective enough. This is especially necessary for containers that store goods that are very sensitive to humidity.
Using a Dehumidifier
A dehumidifier is a device designed to reduce humidity and keep the air dry by removing water vapor.
It works by drawing humid air into the device, then removing the water vapor through a process of condensation, and finally releasing drier air into the container.
However, using a dehumidifier in a storage box or container requires electrical power. Therefore, this technology is more suitable for shipping cargo using containers that are equipped with a power source.
Using Condensation Protection
Condensation of water vapor inside the container can be a problem, especially in areas with drastic temperature differences.
It occurs when warm, humid air meets a cold surface, causing water to collect inside the container. To prevent this, you can use condensation protection or anti-condensation liners.
This condensation protection works by lining the walls of the container with a material that can absorb the accumulated moisture, thus preventing condensation from occurring.
Conclusion
Preventing moisture in storage boxes or containers is very important, especially if you care about the condition of what you’re storing. However, check them occasionally if you’re storing things for months or years. Open the container to let it air out and replace any moisture absorbers.
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