How to Take Care of Books? A Few Rules for Proper Storage

Books are one of those seemingly simple yet incredibly valuable possessions that almost everyone owns. For many people, they hold great sentimental or historical value — especially rare editions or family heirlooms. How can you store books safely? Is it possible to remove mold from books? And why does dust damage them? We answer all these questions and more!

Book Storage in a Self-Storage Unit

If your home is overflowing with books but you don’t want to part with them due to sentimental value, consider storing them in a Stokado self-storage unit. Our storage facilities maintain optimal cleanliness, humidity, and temperature levels. Don’t let your books get covered in dust or mold, or become a feast for moths. Another good reason to store books in a warehouse is during a move or renovation.

Books should never be kept in damp basements or attics. It’s also not worth unpacking them before your new shelves are ready — disorganization can lead to lost or damaged volumes. Proper storage ensures your favorite literary works stay safe, organized, and easy to find. Storing books in a warehouse is also a great idea if you’re selling them — you can keep your home clutter-free while preserving your collection.

How to Store Books at Home and in a Warehouse

No matter where or why you’re storing them, books should always be kept clean. Ideally, place them on specially prepared shelves made of easy-to-clean materials. Why is dusting important? Dust has an acidic pH that damages paper over time.

Wooden bookshelves should be properly sealed against moisture. If not, it’s worth applying a protective lacquer to prevent dampness during cleaning. Avoid using shelves coated with cheap, colored waxes, as they may stain the paper. Whether you’re storing books in a self-storage unit, attic, or basement — sturdy, high-quality shelving is essential.

In warehouses or storage containers, aluminum or plastic shelving is a practical choice. These materials are easy to clean, moisture-resistant, lightweight, and affordable. For valuable books, consider storing them in sealed plastic boxes to protect against dust, dirt, and insects. If your storage conditions are challenging (like in a basement), pests such as moths or rodents can appear — so use repellents or protective containers.

Even the way you place books matters! Rare and valuable editions should be stored upright to prevent warping. To keep them in position, use bookends or store them horizontally in airtight boxes.

How to Save Moldy Books

Unfortunately, damp paper is prone to mold growth. When mold appears, you face a tough choice — discard or restore? Few people know that mold removal for books is possible and often necessary. Mold is usually invisible to the eye; the first signs are odor or allergy symptoms among household members. Because paper is delicate, you can’t use standard fungicides — professional cleaning and drying are often required.

That’s why using Stokado’s self-storage units is the best solution. Our storage facilities provide ideal humidity and cleanliness conditions, protecting your collection long-term. We also offer a wide range of storage unit sizes — even as small as 1 m² — with flexible rental terms and minimal paperwork. Discover how we can help you keep your books safe — contact our team for details!