Moving furniture into a self storage unit is a great way to free up space in your home. However, it’s important to ensure that your furniture is stored correctly in order to maintain its quality and condition for the long-term. Here are 10 tips for storing furniture in self storage:
1. Clean and Prepare Your Furniture
Before storing your furniture, it’s important to thoroughly clean it to prevent any dirt or debris from causing damage during storage. Use a gentle cleaner appropriate for the type of material and be sure to let the furniture fully dry before moving it.
2. Disassemble Large Items
Large items such as beds, tables, and bookshelves should be disassembled before storing them. This will not only make it easier to transport and store, but also reduce the risk of damage.
3. Wrap and Protect Fragile Items
Fragile items such as mirrors, glass shelves, and delicate wood pieces should be wrapped in bubble wrap or packing paper to prevent any scratches or breakages during transportation and storage.
4. Use Appropriate Packing Materials
When packing your furniture, it’s important to use appropriate materials such as moving blankets, furniture covers, and sturdy boxes. This will provide an extra layer of protection against dust, dirt, and potential damage from other items in the storage unit.
5. Elevate Furniture off the Ground
To prevent any potential damage from flooding or moisture, it’s important to elevate your furniture off the ground. This can be done by using pallets or wooden boards underneath the furniture.
6. Store Similar Items Together
When packing your storage unit, try to group similar items together. Not only will this make it easier to find what you need when retrieving items, but it also reduces the risk of damage from heavy or sharp objects placed on top of delicate items.
7. Protect Upholstered Furniture with Covers
Upholstered furniture such as couches and chairs should be covered with protective covers to prevent any dust, dirt, or stains from accumulating during storage.
8. Avoid Overpacking Boxes
When packing smaller items such as dishes or books, be mindful not to overpack boxes. This can cause the box to become too heavy and potentially damage the items inside.
9. Use Climate-Controlled Units
If you’re storing furniture for an extended period of time, consider using a climate-controlled storage unit. Extreme temperatures and humidity levels can cause damage to delicate materials such as wood or leather.
10. Check on Your Furniture Periodically
It’s important to check on your furniture periodically, especially if it will be stored for a long period of time. This allows you to catch any potential issues such as pests or moisture damage early on and take necessary precautions.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your furniture remains in good condition while in self storage, giving you peace of mind and making the retrieval process easier in the future. Remember to also properly label your boxes and keep an inventory list for easy access to specific items when needed.