Are you searching for a safe place to store your furniture long term when it's not in use? Your attached garage may seem like an obvious choice if you live in a house, but it may raise some concerns. On the other hand, a self storage unit could be a great option, especially if you're in the process of moving!
If you're thinking about renting a storage unit to store your furniture, it's essential to take a few precautions to ensure its safety. Regardless of the material, whether it's tables, desks, chairs, or couches, these tips will help you protect your furniture while it's in storage. Here are some useful tips on how to store furniture in a storage unit.
Selecting the appropriate storage unit is the first and most crucial step in storing furniture. It is essential to choose a unit that is spacious enough to accommodate your furniture without being too congested. A cramped space may cause damage to your furniture and make it challenging to access items that you may need in the future. Therefore, it is best to choose a storage unit that provides ample space to move around and organize your furniture.
In addition to size, it is also important to consider the height of the storage unit. Some furniture pieces, such as wardrobes or armoires, are tall and require vertical space. So, it's crucial to choose a unit that has enough vertical space to accommodate such items. Also, make sure to measure your furniture before selecting a storage unit to ensure that it will fit comfortably.
Furthermore, it's essential to choose a storage unit that is dry and secure, with good ventilation. Moisture can cause damage to your furniture by promoting the growth of mold and mildew. Therefore, it's essential to select a unit that is dry and free from leaks.
Check to make sure the unit is secure and has a locking mechanism to prevent unauthorized access. Good ventilation is also necessary to prevent stagnant air and moisture buildup, which can lead to mold growth, which no one wants to deal with!
Before storing your furniture, make sure to clean and prepare it properly. Make sure you never put anything into storage if it's already dirty, and make sure to wipe down and vacuum cushions!
Take everything apart! This allows for more efficient transport of bulky items like bed frames, desks, bookshelves, tables, and more! It also provides more space inside the storage unit for other items.
Organize screws and bolts into labeled bags or containers. This will not only help avoid unpleasant smells, but it also helps reduce the possibility of mold and mildew forming.
Remove any cushions or covers from upholstered furniture and store them separately as well. Put any screws and bolts in labeled bags or containers.
This will prevent unwanted odors but more importantly, it prevents the risk of mold and mildew growth.
A few more tips for cleaning and preparing your furniture include:
To ensure your furniture and boxes stay protected, it's important to cover them completely. Use pallets or plastic sheeting to prevent any moisture from seeping in from the floor. However, be careful not to wrap furniture too tightly in thick plastic, as this can trap moisture and odors, and even cause swelling over time. Instead, consider wrapping furniture in old blankets or sheets to allow for proper ventilation.
Use furniture pads, blankets, or bubble wrap to cover each piece of furniture and protect it from scratches and dings. Use packing tape to secure the padding in place.
To fully utilize your storage unit, it's crucial to make the most of the available space. One effective method is to stack chairs and smaller items on top of tables and larger items to save valuable floor space. Additionally, consider storing items vertically, such as wardrobes or bookcases, to make the most of the unit's height.
Using shelves or cubbies is another great way to keep smaller items organized and easy to locate. This not only saves space but also ensures that you can quickly access the items you need when you need them.
To ensure that you can easily retrieve frequently used items, place them near the front of the unit and stack them in a way that makes them easy to reach. On the other hand, items that you don't need access to often should be placed at the back of the unit, where they won't be in the way.
Moisture is one of the greatest threats to furniture, so it's important to take precautions to protect your furniture from it while it is in storage. One effective method is to use dehumidifiers or silica gel packets to absorb excess moisture in the air.
These products help to maintain a dry environment inside the storage unit, which prevents moisture buildup that can cause mold and mildew growth. When using silica gel packets, be sure to replace them regularly, as they can become saturated over time.
Another way to protect your furniture from moisture is to place plastic sheeting or pallets on the floor of the storage unit. These materials act as a barrier between your furniture and any moisture that may seep into the unit.
By raising your furniture slightly off the floor, you can prevent it from coming into contact with any standing water or dampness that may be present
Finally, it's important not to overpack your storage unit. Leave enough space for air to circulate and for you to move around comfortably. Overpacking the unit can lead to damage to your furniture or make it difficult to access items you need.
In conclusion, storing furniture in a storage unit can be a challenge, but with the right preparation, packing materials, and organization, you can do it successfully. Remember to choose the right storage unit, clean and prepare your furniture properly, use proper packing materials, maximize space, protect your furniture from moisture, label everything, arrange your furniture strategically, and avoid overpacking the unit.
These are a few of our best tips on how to store furniture in your storage unit! Rent a clean and affordable self storage unit with us today and we’ll ensure safety to you and your belongings.
you're between moves and need to store your furniture, renting a storage unit is a great option. Make sure to choose a unit that is large enough, dry, and secure to protect your furniture.
To wrap furniture for long term storage, use protective materials such as bubble wrap, moving blankets, or plastic covers. Make sure to disassemble any pieces that can be taken apart and wrap each piece individually to protect it from scratches and damage. Additionally, use furniture pads to cushion any sharp edges or corners.