10 Clever Tips for Safely Storing Furniture in a Storage Unit

March 21, 2023
Ella Martin
Ella Martin

Nearly every mover in history has said, "Seriously, where did all this stuff come from, and why do I have so many things?"

If minimalism isn't quite your thing, it will take some work to pack a storage unit. You'll need to wrangle and finagle furniture in a method that doesn't harm the products because there is so much to take into mind. These suggestions will guide you through the process of securely and effectively storing your furniture in a storage facility.

1. Select the safest storage facility available

Selecting the ideal storage facility in your neighborhood is essential for securely keeping your items. To ensure that your stuff won't be damaged, check the unit's condition and the facility's general security. When securely closed, look for a storage unit that has little to no access to the outside world; holes and fractures let dirt, water, humidity, and mice inside.

2. Select an air-conditioned unit

Mold, mildew, and rust may be avoided by storing items in climate-controlled storage spaces that have dehumidifiers and air conditioning. These storage containers are more expensive to rent, but you're less likely to end up with a bed frame full of dry rot and a sofa covered in mildew. Discuss humidity monitoring procedures with the building management; it should be kept between 30 and 50 percent.

3. Prepare by cleaning your storage space and all of your belongings

In order to prevent unintentionally bringing in dirt, rats, and mold, thoroughly clean both your storage container and the items you intend to keep. Additionally, after the device is closed, whatever odor you introduce will just get worse. Vacuum or sweep the apparatus to begin. Then, clean upholstered and leather items like couches and cushions. Apply the same procedure on your metal, plastic, and wood furnishings. Before you pack anything away, make sure everything is entirely dry to prevent moldy packaging and tarnished components when you get back.

4. Break down anything you can to save space

You won't save any time by doing this, but you will save some space. Your dining room set, bookcases, and any other items that were originally in parts should be disassembled. Disassembly also frees up space in your moving truck, if you decide to move.

Put all of the screws, nuts, bolts, or other hardware for each piece of furniture in a little plastic bag, making sure to name each one. You may either keep them in a drawer or tape the bag to the furniture's back. When it's time to unpack, you'll discover the complementary hardware neatly tucked away in its original location.

5. Cover the floor of the storage unit to protect furniture

If you don't select a climate-controlled unit, make a protective moisture barrier using a thick sheet of plastic. To avoid sealing moisture into the fabric and wood, don't wrap your furniture in heavy plastic. Instead, to keep filth and dust at bay, gently cover them in old linens and moving blankets.

Bonus points: During the actual relocation, the same blankets will shield your furniture from rough corners and edges.

6. Label, box, and wrap fragile items

Make the most of your hoarding tendencies by carefully packaging delicate objects in the original packaging. If those are no longer available, many supermarket and home improvement stores have moving boxes that can accommodate almost anything, even TVs and wall mirrors. Stock up on packing supplies like bubble wrap and print-free newspapers, then label your belongings to let your movers know which ones should be treated carefully.

7. Call for a floor

Some individuals find comfort in putting their furniture and boxes on cinder blocks or wooden pallets to keep them off the ground. The increased height may lessen the likelihood of floods and moisture absorption.

8. Add heavier items to the load

Getting organized first isn't difficult, but it's crucial. The biggest, heaviest boxes and pieces of furniture should go on the floor first, followed by lighter items.

- Furniture shouldn't be stacked on top of boxes since the weight might shift at any point and cause the furniture to fall, causing more damage.

- Clear the entrances so that they can close securely.

- If at all feasible, make room for a pathway to run through the center for convenience.

- Pack smaller boxes and delicate things in dresser drawers if you can't disassemble them to save room.

9. Put in shelves

Have you considered installing shelves in your storage facility? Purchase hanging shelves and temporarily drill them into the wall, or purchase sizable ground-standing shelves made of plastic or metal. Large or unusually shaped things that won't fit in boxes might be organized this way.

10. Double-check the do not pack list for the storage facility

Check your luggage to make sure you haven't packed anything prohibited or unlawful before you close and lock the door. To ensure the safety of all nearby storage containers, combustible substances and chemicals frequently appear on these no-go lists. Finally, avoid storing food because it is the quickest method to attract a bug issue.