How to balance moisture and dust prevention in the ventilation hole design of garage storage cabinets?

The design of ventilation holes in garage storage cabinets needs to balance moisture prevention and dust prevention, which seem contradictory but can be achieved through scientific design. Here are the specific methods and principles:
I. Core Conflict in Ventilation Hole Design
Moisture Prevention Requirements:
Garages typically have high humidity, and ventilation holes need to promote air circulation to reduce humidity and prevent items from getting moldy or damaged.
Dust Prevention Requirements:
Improperly designed ventilation holes can allow dust, insects, and other debris to enter the cabinet, contaminating items.

II. Key Elements for Balanced Design
1. Position and Quantity of Ventilation Holes
Position Selection:
Top or Upper Side Walls: Utilize the principle of hot air rising to facilitate moisture discharge.
Avoid Bottom Openings: Prevent ground moisture or dust from entering directly.
Quantity and Size:
The total area of holes should account for 5%-10% of the cabinet's surface area to avoid excessive dust entry due to overly large holes.
Individual hole diameter should not exceed 5mm to effectively block large dust particles.

2. Dust Prevention Structure Design
Inclined Holes:
Holes are inclined outward at 15°-30°, creating a "rain hood" effect to block direct dust entry.
Multi-Layer Filtration:
Outer Layer: Metal mesh (with a pore size ≤1mm) to intercept large dust particles.
Inner Layer: Sponge or non-woven fabric filter to adsorb fine particles.
Magnetic Dust Cover:
A dust cover that closes when not in use and opens during ventilation, balancing both needs.

3. Enhanced Moisture Prevention Measures
Elevated Base Design:
The cabinet base is raised by more than 10cm to avoid direct contact with the ground, reducing moisture penetration.
Internal Dehumidifying Materials:
Place silica gel desiccants or activated carbon packs to absorb moisture inside the cabinet.
Moisture-Proof Coating:
Apply a moisture-proof paint to the interior of the cabinet to enhance overall moisture resistance.

III. Material Selection and Craftsmanship
Metal Materials:
Stainless steel or aluminum alloy holes are corrosion-resistant and suitable for humid environments.
Plastic Materials:
PVC or ABS materials are lightweight but require smooth surfaces to prevent dust accumulation.
Welding or Injection Molding Processes:
Hole edges must be smooth and burr-free to prevent dust adhesion.

IV. Daily Maintenance Tips
Regular Cleaning:
Use a soft brush or vacuum cleaner to clean ventilation holes and prevent dust blockage.
Replace Desiccants:
Replace desiccants every 3-6 months to maintain dryness inside the cabinet.
Check Sealing:
Regularly inspect the cabinet door's sealing strip for aging to prevent moisture from seeping in through gaps.