Living on a tropical island presents unique challenges when it comes to protecting and storing important items.
The combination of intense sunlight, humidity, and other environmental factors is detrimental to certain possessions like family documents, heirloom linens, leather goods, and timeless garments.
So, what can you do to keep the frustration of ruined items at bay?
Keep reading if you want recommendations from me, Brittany Smith, a professional organizer living on Maui on how to protect and store your family valuables at home.
Protecting Family Documents:
Be CAREFUL with your documents! Direct sunlight can cause papers, documents, and photographs to fade, deteriorate, or become brittle over time.
To mitigate sun damage, it is crucial to store these items in file holders, away from direct sunlight.
Transparent file folders are popular because they offer visibility, but there's no advantage if your papers are exposed to the elements or damaged. Opaque file folders are an equally smart choice and offer protection from too much light.
You will want to place documents in a temperate area of your home to avoid moisture buildup or fading due to heat. And we highly recommend a container with a gasket, to keep the contents airtight.
Storing Linens, Leather, and Clothing:
Paper, fabric, and leather are some of the most vulnerable objects when it comes to island living.
Humidity is a constant companion in tropical regions, and it can lead to problems such as mildew, musty odors, and discoloration.
Leather goods and garments are particularly susceptible to moisture-related issues, such as mold and mildew, if not stored correctly.
Protect your valuable linens for an extended period of time by containing them properly.
It is advisable to place smaller items like shoes and belts in breathable fabric bags such as the type that come with your designer shoes and purses. Some people call them dust bags and they're worthwhile to keep around. For larger items, garment bags made from organic material is best.
These bags allow air circulation and act as a dust barrier preventing the buildup of moisture and debris, essentially reducing the risk of mold and mildew.
Don't forget: clean and dry linens and leather items thoroughly before storing them and have your professional organizer periodically check for any signs of moisture or damage.
Choke Tips for Protecting Valuable Items:
Invest in quality storage solutions: Consider using climate-controlled storage units or cabinets with humidity control features to protect sensitive items.
Use UV protective film or blinds: Applying UV protective film to windows or using blinds can significantly reduce the amount of direct sunlight entering your home and protect valuable items from sun damage.
Implement proper ventilation: Ensure that your living space has adequate ventilation to minimize moisture accumulation and maintain a dry environment. Keep in mind that this also means more dust inside, no worries right? (It's okay, we have solutions).
Regular maintenance and inspection: Periodically inspect and clean your valuable items, checking for any signs of damage or deterioration. Promptly address any issues that arise.
Living in a tropical island environment provides a unique experience, but it also requires special attention to protect valuable items from the harsh effects of sunlight, humidity, and moisture.
Taking proactive steps to protect and store your valuable household items will help ensure that they remain in pristine condition, enhancing the enjoyment of island living for years to come.
In Harmony,
Brittany Smith
ZenSmith Owner & Lead Organizer
"Harmonious Home, Harmonious Life"