Arkansas summers are no joke. With temperatures regularly climbing past 95°F and humidity that makes it feel even hotter, the contents of a standard storage unit can take a real beating. Climate-controlled storage costs a bit more per month — but for the right items, it's one of the smartest decisions you can make.
Arkansas summers are no joke. With temperatures regularly climbing past 95°F and humidity that makes it feel even hotter, the contents of a standard storage unit can take a real beating. Climate-controlled storage costs a bit more per month — but for the right items, it's one of the smartest decisions you can make.
What Is Climate-Controlled Storage?
Climate-controlled storage units maintain a consistent temperature — typically between 55°F and 80°F — year-round. Many also regulate humidity levels, which is especially important in the South where moisture can cause mold, warping, and rust.
Items That Need Climate-Controlled Storage
- Wood furniture — heat and humidity cause warping, cracking, and joint failure
- Electronics — heat degrades batteries and circuit boards
- Important documents — paper yellows and becomes brittle without humidity control
- Clothing and textiles — mold and mildew thrive in humid conditions
- Musical instruments — wood instruments can crack; strings and valves corrode
- Artwork and photos — pigments fade and paper warps with temperature swings
- Wine and spirits — flavor is damaged by heat above 75°F
- Antiques and collectibles — value depends on condition; climate control preserves both
What Can Go in Standard Storage
Not everything needs the premium treatment. Standard units work well for items that can handle temperature swings without permanent damage.
- Metal tools and hardware
- Outdoor furniture and equipment
- Sports equipment
- Non-sensitive plastic items
- Holiday decorations (except wax candles, which can melt)
The Real Cost of Not Climate-Controlling
A climate-controlled unit might run $10–$30 more per month than a standard unit of the same size. That sounds like an easy savings — until a summer in a non-climate-controlled unit warps your antique dresser, destroys your grandmother's china cabinet, or molds your winter coat collection. Replacing those items costs far more than the upgrade ever would have.
Climate-Controlled Storage at Modern Storage
Modern Storage offers climate-controlled units at all 10 Arkansas locations. Units are inside, with clean hallways and easy access. If you're not sure which unit type is right for your belongings, the on-site team can walk you through it — no sales pressure, just straight answers.