Prepping a house to be empty
 

Does anyone know how to do this well? We have to leave most of our stuff in this apartment while are out of country. We'll be gone for much longer than usual so I want to it right.

Also the last time we traveled during the rainy season we came home to mold on so much of our stuff. When we live in our house during the rainy season this doesn't happen. Any ideas on how we can avoid this?

Re: Prepping a house to be empty
 

If at all feasible, look for someone to stay in or take care of the apt. We dealt with that situation with our own and our teammates stuff. It is so much better for the dwelling to be regularly aired. I have tried storing stuff and it's better not to.
When we were new overseas we house sat for a family who was on furlough. It was a great situation for everyone. Another time we asked a national friend to live in our house which was a blessing to her because her family lived an hour away from her work and she had been commuting. Other times we and others hired someone trustworthy to come in every other day and run the fans, clean, look after things, etc.
If you do have to store things, I recommend plastic bags inside good quality plastic tubs. If you have wood, metal, or plastic furniture it's probably ok. Pressboard is a loss. I've never had it not develop mold blooms. Mattresses are a major concern too. Make sure to strip beds.

Re: Prepping a house to be empty
 

Can you buy clumping cat litter there? Clumping cat litter tied up in an old sock can help absorb moisture and stink. If bugs or rodents aren’t a concern, propping open cupboards and the fridge also helps with air circulation.