When you’re prepping or homesteading, making sure your supplies are stored the right way is very important. Even the best materials won’t last if they’re not protected from things like moisture, sunlight, or pests. Proper storage ensures your items stay safe, useful, and ready when you need them.
This guide will help you understand the key elements of proper storage and how to apply them. By following these simple steps, you can make sure your supplies last as long as possible.
Next up: Organizing and Protecting Long-Term Chemical Compounds
Table of Contents
Cool, Dark Place
Storing items in a cool, dark spot helps them last longer by slowing down reactions caused by heat and light. Heat can cause things to break down, and light, especially sunlight, can damage certain materials.
- Store in basements, cellars, or insulated cabinets.
- Use curtains, covers, or dark containers to block light.
- Avoid keeping items near heaters, stoves, or appliances that generate heat.
No Direct Sunlight
Sunlight can heat up containers and damage the materials inside. Some chemicals can break down when exposed to UV rays.
- Use opaque or UV-resistant containers.
- Store items in drawers, cabinets, or boxes.
- Keep items away from windows and doors with glass.
Airtight Containers
Air can cause some chemicals to oxidize or lose their potency. Airtight containers help keep air and other contaminants out.
- Use glass jars with sealing lids or vacuum-sealed bags.
- Mylar bags with oxygen absorbers are great for dry items.
- Test seals regularly to make sure they’re still working.
No Moisture
Moisture can cause items to clump, grow mold, or react in ways that ruin them. Keeping things dry is essential for long-term storage.
- Add silica gel packets or other desiccants to containers.
- Use a dehumidifier in storage areas, especially in humid climates.
- Avoid storing items in damp places like bathrooms or unsealed basements.
Stable Temperature
Big temperature swings can cause materials to expand, contract, or break down. A steady temperature keeps things stable.
- Avoid garages, attics, and outdoor sheds where temperatures change a lot.
- Insulate storage areas to keep the temperature consistent.
- Use climate-controlled spaces when possible.
Pest Protection
Pests can chew through packaging, contaminate supplies, and cause serious damage. Proper storage keeps them out.
- Use heavy-duty containers made of glass, metal, or thick plastic.
- Store items off the ground and away from walls.
- Inspect storage regularly for signs of pests.
Avoid Reactivity
Some chemicals can react with other substances or the containers they’re stored in, causing leaks or dangerous situations.
- Don’t store acids and bases near each other.
- Keep flammable materials away from heat or open flames.
- Use non-reactive containers like glass or specific plastics that are safe for chemicals.
- Check chemical labels or guides to learn about their safe storage needs.
Proper Labeling
Labels make it easy to know what’s inside and how to use it safely. Unlabeled items can lead to accidents.
- Clearly label every container with the name and date it was stored.
- Include instructions for use or warnings if the material is hazardous.
- Use waterproof markers or labels to prevent smudging.
Oxygen Removal
Oxygen can make items degrade faster. Removing it helps preserve certain materials.
- Add oxygen absorbers to containers with dry goods or powders.
- Vacuum-seal items to reduce air exposure.
- Use airtight Mylar bags for long-term storage.
Rotate and Inspect
Even properly stored items need to be checked to make sure they’re still in good condition.
- Check for leaks, cracks, or signs of contamination regularly.
- Rotate items by using older ones first (first in, first out).
- Replace or recharge desiccants and oxygen absorbers when needed.
Dedicated Storage Space
Having a specific area for your stored items helps keep them organized and safe.
- Use a clean, dry, and lockable room or cabinet.
- Keep hazardous materials out of reach of children and pets.
- Avoid overcrowding to prevent damage or spills.
Use the Right Material
Some containers react with chemicals or don’t provide enough protection. Choosing the right material is key.
- Store acidic substances like vinegar in glass or specific plastic containers.
- Flammables and reactive chemicals do best in metal or specially rated plastic.
- Avoid using aluminum or other reactive metals for items like baking soda.