Whether you’re downsizing, relocating, or simply decluttering your home, self-storage can be a convenient solution for temporarily or long-term storing your furniture. However, ensuring that your furniture remains in pristine condition while in storage requires proper preparation and care.

From selecting the right storage unit to packing and protecting your furniture, here’s a comprehensive guide to safely storing your furniture.

 

Choose the Right Storage Unit

Before storing your furniture, it’s essential to choose the right storage unit. Opt for a unit that is clean, dry, and weatherproof to protect your furniture from moisture, mould, and pests. Be sure to consider the size of the unit to ensure that it can accommodate all your furniture pieces without overcrowding.

 

Clean and Prepare Your Furniture

Before placing your furniture in storage, thoroughly clean and inspect each piece to remove dust, dirt, and debris. Use a mild cleanser appropriate for the material of your furniture, and allow it to dry completely before packing.

Disassemble any large or fragile items, such as bed frames or tables, to minimise the risk of damage during transport and storage. Keep track of hardware and assembly instructions to reassemble furniture later.

 

Protect Your Furniture

To prevent scratches, dents, and other damage, it’s crucial to properly protect your furniture before storing it. Start by wrapping each piece in protective materials such as moving blankets, bubble wrap, or furniture pads.

Pay special attention to vulnerable areas such as corners, edges, and legs. For upholstered furniture, consider using plastic covers or shrink wrap to shield it from dust and moisture. Additionally, use mattress covers to protect mattresses and box springs from stains and tears.

 

Arrange Furniture Strategically

When packing your storage unit, arrange furniture strategically to maximise space and accessibility. Place heavier items such as sofas and dressers on the bottom and lighter items on top to prevent crushing and shifting.

Leave aisles between furniture pieces to facilitate access and airflow. Avoid leaning furniture against walls or stacking items too high, as this can lead to instability and damage. Keep frequently used items towards the front of the unit for easy access.

 

Use Proper Packing Supplies

Investing in high-quality packing supplies can make a significant difference in protecting your furniture during storage.

Use sturdy boxes, crates, and plastic wrap to ensure proper coverage. Seal boxes tightly with packing tape to prevent dust and pests from entering. Label boxes clearly with their contents and mark fragile items as “fragile” to ensure careful handling. Consider implementing racking to help keep things organised.

For oversized or irregularly shaped items, consider custom-made crates or packaging solutions.

Racking

 

Consider Additional Protection

In addition to wrapping and packing, consider using additional protection measures to safeguard your furniture in storage.

For valuable or sentimental pieces, such as antique furniture or family heirlooms, consider purchasing insurance coverage or adding these items to your existing policy. This provides financial protection in case of theft, damage, or loss.

 

Inspect Regularly

Even with proper preparation and protection, it’s important to regularly inspect and maintain your furniture while in storage.

Periodically check for signs of damage, moisture, or pest infestation, and address any issues promptly. Dust and vacuum furniture surfaces as needed to prevent dust buildup and maintain cleanliness. If storing furniture long-term, consider rotating items periodically to prevent prolonged pressure on specific areas.

By following these tips, you can safely store your furniture in self-storage and ensure that it remains in optimal condition until you’re ready to retrieve it.

With proper preparation, protection, and maintenance, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing that your furniture is secure and well cared for in storage.

If you’re interested in finding out more about our storage services please get in touch with one of our friendly team.