Basements and attics are often the first place we look for storage in our homes, but garages are also useful. The only concern is the garage isn’t well insulated like your house, which may lead to mold growing on your stored items. Fortunately, you can take steps to keep that from happening. Follow along as we discuss how to prevent mold in your garage storage so you can enjoy the extra space without worry.
Extend the Downspouts
Downspouts are attached to the end of the gutters and direct precipitation away from the house. Make sure the downspout base is about 10 feet away from the garage foundation. If you keep the gutters clean and the downspouts pointed away from your garage, you are less likely to see water in the garage, which creates an ideal environment for mold growth.
Check for Drainage
Your garage floor should have two things: a drain and a slope away from the garage. The drain collects moisture that drips off your vehicle. The sloped floor creates a path for precipitation and other forms of moisture to enter the drain.
If your garage doesn’t have either of these things, you should consider fixing the floor before storing anything.
Use Waterproof Containers
Use waterproof containers with lids to prevent mold from growing in your stored items, such as car cleaning supplies.
Your microfiber towels require special care in order to use them repeatedly, and the last thing you want is mold growing on them. Let them dry completely before storing them in your garage. Also, sports gear and landscaping tools should go in separate containers.
Decrease Humidity
Mold thrives in humidity—it literally feeds on it! Here are a few things you can do to decrease the humidity in your garage:
- Run a dehumidifier.
- Let in the sunshine when possible.
- Ventilate with fans.
- Clean up spills right away.
Constant exposure to the outside elements means completely ridding your garage of moisture is tough. Still, you can decrease humidity and prevent mold from growing in your garage storage by following these steps.
