Can Self Storage Be Used for Art Collections

If you collect art, or even just own a few pieces that you really care about, you have probably wondered if it is safe to keep them in a self storage unit.

The short answer is yes, you can store art in self storage, but it is not as simple as putting it in a box and forgetting about it, as your artwork will get damaged.

The Challenges of Storing Art

Art reacts to the space it is kept in.  A room that swings from warm to cold or damp to dry can slowly ruin a painting. Paint starts to crack, canvas stretches and then shrinks back, and wooden frames twist out of shape.

Even photographs or delicate paper can start to ripple or fade if the air is not steady.

The worst part is that this damage often builds up quietly. You might not see a problem for months. That is why galleries and museums spend so much on climate-controlled rooms.

For private collectors, a good self storage unit can still be a safe option if you choose carefully and prepare your pieces properly.

Choosing the Right Facility

Not every self storage site is suitable for art.  You want a unit that keeps a steady temperature, ideally close to normal indoor room levels, and humidity that does not swing up and down.

If the air is too damp, you risk mould. If it is too dry, the canvas and frames can dry out and become brittle.  A good facility will have sealed units that keep out moisture and dust, clean and well-lit corridors and proper access control so that only authorised customers can get in.

You should also look for security gates with codes or fobs, CCTV that runs all the time and solid doors with good locks when storing your artwork.  Fire safety and pest control should also be in place, and finally, there should be no bright sunlight falling on your stored pieces.

Getting Your Art Ready for Storage

Packing your collection properly makes just as much difference as the facility you pick.  Take time to check that each piece is clean and dry first.

You do not want to trap dust or moisture under the wrapping.

Use acid-free tissue paper or proper archival paper so you do not get chemical stains years later.

Skip the cling film. It traps moisture and can do more harm than good.

Store paintings upright if you can, not flat on top of one another, and slip a soft pad or a piece of foam board between each frame so they do not rub together.

Keep everything off the floor by using pallets or low shelving so that even a minor leak cannot reach your collection.

It is worth taking photos and making a simple list of what you store.  If you ever need to claim on insurance, or even just want to check the condition later, you will be glad you did.

Insuring Your Art

Most storage companies can offer insurance, but you can also use a specialist art insurer. Either way, do not just tick the box without reading what is covered.

You want protection against fire, flood, theft and accidental damage.

If you own something valuable or rare, check that it is insured for its full worth.  Keep photos and a record of its condition somewhere safe.

If you ever need to make a claim, that record will save you a lot of time and stress.

When Self Storage Is Not the Right Choice

Self storage is often fine for people who need to keep artwork safe during a house move, a renovation or between exhibitions.

If you have very fragile historic pieces or anything that needs strict climate control all year round, you may be better off using a dedicated art storage service. It will cost more, but you will know that the conditions are right.

Storing Art Safely

With the right facility and a bit of care in packing and insuring your collection, self storage can be a practical and safe solution for many art owners.

Choose a facility that looks after its units properly, pack each piece with care and keep your insurance in place.  Do those three things, and you can store your art without losing sleep over it.