How to Prepare Your Furniture and Larger Household Items for Self-Storage

Introduction:

Are you planning to utilise self-storage for your furniture and larger household items? Whether you’re moving, decluttering, or renovating your home, proper preparation is key to ensure your belongings remain safe and in good condition during storage. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to prepare your furniture and larger items for self-storage. At Need A Space we have many years experience in planning self storage for clients. Do not hesitate to Contact Us, our family run friendly team are always ready to assist.

1. Clean Thoroughly:
Before storing any furniture or large household items, it’s crucial to clean them thoroughly. Dust and dirt can accumulate during regular use, and storing items without cleaning them can lead to stains or even mould growth over time. Use appropriate cleaning agents and tools for different surfaces, such as wood polish for wooden furniture, upholstery cleaner for fabric items, and so on.

2. Disassemble When Possible:
To maximize space and protect your furniture from damage, disassemble larger items whenever possible. Remove legs from tables, take apart bed frames, and dismantle any other components that can be separated. Keep all screws, bolts, and other hardware in labelled bags or containers to avoid misplacement.

3. Wrap and Protect:
After cleaning and disassembling, it’s time to wrap and protect each item individually. Use materials like bubble wrap, moving blankets, or furniture pads to safeguard against scratches, dents, and other damage. For delicate surfaces, such as glass table tops or mirrors, apply additional layers of protection with cardboard or specialized wrapping materials.

4. Choose Appropriate Packaging:
Selecting the right packaging materials is essential for long-term storage. Invest in sturdy cardboard boxes, plastic bins with lids, or mattress covers to shield items from dust, moisture, and pests. Make sure boxes are properly sealed and labelled with their contents for easy identification when accessing your storage unit.

5. Utilise Furniture Covers:
For extra protection against dust and moisture, consider using furniture covers or tarps to shield larger items such as sofas, mattresses, and appliances. Additionally choose breathable materials to prevent condensation build up while allowing air circulation to maintain freshness.

6. Elevate and Protect from Moisture Before Moving To Self Storage:
To prevent moisture damage, it’s crucial to elevate your furniture and larger items off the ground. You may currently have items stored in an old garage or shed that is less than ideal. Place pallets or wooden boards on the floor of your storage unit to create a barrier between your belongings and any potential moisture seepage. Additionally, consider using moisture-absorbing products like silica gel packs or desiccant bags to maintain optimal humidity levels.

7. Organize Strategically:
When arranging items in your storage unit, prioritize accessibility and organization. Place larger and heavier items at the back of the unit, with lighter and frequently needed items towards the front. Leave pathways between stacks of boxes and furniture to facilitate easy navigation and retrieval.

8. Consider Climate-Controlled Storage:
If you’re storing valuable or sensitive items, such as antique furniture or electronics, consider renting a climate-controlled storage unit. Climate control helps regulate temperature and humidity levels, providing an optimal environment to preserve your belongings and prevent damage from extreme conditions. Fortunately, when you take our indoor storage at Need A Space all our units are climate controlled dehumidified for you.

Conclusion:

Preparing your furniture and larger household items for self-storage requires careful planning and attention to detail. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure your belongings remain safe, secure, and in pristine condition throughout their time in storage. Remember to clean, disassemble, wrap, and protect each item before carefully organizing them in your storage unit. With proper preparation, you can confidently store your furniture and larger items knowing they’re well taken care of. Contact Us at Need A Space to find out more and to arrange a no obligation site visit.