Are you looking for a long-term storage solution for your furniture and appliances? Storing your items properly is essential to ensure they remain in good condition and avoid unnecessary damage. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through how to prepare your furniture and appliances for storage, covering everything from selecting the right storage unit to using the proper packing materials. Whether you’re storing valuable furniture or bulky appliances, these simple steps will help protect your items for the long haul.
Types of Storage Units for Furniture Storage
When it comes to furniture storage, choosing the right storage unit is the first and most important step. Not all storage spaces are the same, and certain types of furniture require specific conditions to stay in good shape. Here’s what you should consider:
Size of the Unit: Before booking a storage unit, make sure it can accommodate the size of your furniture. Large items like sofas, dining tables, or wardrobes need more space, and you should avoid cramming them into a smaller unit. When furniture is packed too tightly, it can cause pressure marks, scratches, or warping.
Climate Control: A climate-controlled unit is ideal for furniture storage, especially if you’re storing wooden or fabric items. Humidity and temperature changes can cause wood to warp, leather to crack, and fabrics to fade or develop mould. Climate-controlled units regulate both temperature and humidity levels, offering better protection for your furniture.
Stacking and Organisation: If you’re storing several items, such as furniture and appliances, look for a storage unit with high ceilings. This allows you to safely stack lighter pieces on top of heavier ones, saving space and keeping the storage area organised.
Warehouse Storage: For those looking for long-term solutions and who don’t need regular access to their items, some companies offer warehouse storage. They collect your items, store them securely, and return them when needed. This can often be a more cost-effective solution for extended storage, and it eliminates the need for you to transport items yourself.
By selecting the appropriate storage unit for your needs, you can significantly reduce the risk of damage to your furniture over time.
Essential Packing Materials for Furniture Storage
Once you’ve chosen the right storage unit, it’s time to start packing your belongings. To protect your furniture and appliances from dust, moisture, and damage, having the correct packing materials is crucial. Here’s what you’ll need:
Breathable Covers: For furniture storage, avoid using plastic wrap directly on your items, especially wooden or leather pieces. Plastic can trap moisture, leading to mould, warping, or mildew. Instead, use breathable covers such as cotton sheets, furniture blankets, or specialised furniture pads. These will protect your furniture from dust and scratches while allowing air to circulate.
Mattress Covers: If you’re storing a mattress or box spring, invest in a mattress cover. These protective covers keep out dust and pests, which is especially important for items stored over an extended period.
Plastic Bins for Smaller Items: For smaller items such as books, clothes, or household goods, plastic bins with lids are a great choice. They protect your belongings from dust, moisture, and pests while offering an easy way to organise your storage space.
Bubble Wrap and Packing Paper: For any fragile items such as mirrors, glass tabletops, or picture frames, use bubble wrap or packing paper to cushion and protect them. This is particularly important if you’ll be stacking items in the storage unit.
Using the right packing materials will not only keep your furniture safe but also make it easier to organise and unpack when you need your items again.
How to Prepare Furniture for Long-Term Storage
Preparing your furniture for long-term storage involves more than just packing it up. Follow these steps to ensure your furniture remains in pristine condition, even after years in storage:
Clean Your Furniture: Before placing your furniture in storage, make sure it’s thoroughly cleaned. Dust, crumbs, and stains can attract pests, and any leftover moisture can lead to mould growth. For wooden furniture, use an appropriate wood cleaner or polish, and for fabric or upholstered items, vacuum thoroughly to remove dirt and debris.
Disassemble Larger Items: If possible, disassemble larger furniture pieces such as bed frames, tables, and wardrobes. This not only saves space in your storage unit but also reduces the risk of damage during transport. Make sure to keep screws, bolts, and other small parts in a labelled bag, so you can easily reassemble your furniture later.
Protect Surfaces: Wrap each piece of furniture in protective padding or furniture blankets. For fragile surfaces such as mirrors or glass tabletops, bubble wrap will provide an extra layer of protection. Avoid using plastic directly on wood or leather as it can trap moisture and cause damage.
Elevate Your Furniture: To prevent potential water damage from flooding or leaks, place your furniture on pallets or boards to keep it off the ground. This simple step can save you from having to deal with soaked or ruined items down the line.
By taking the time to clean, disassemble, and wrap your furniture, you’ll ensure it’s well-protected during long-term storage.
How to Protect Appliances for Long-Term Storage
Appliances like refrigerators, washing machines, and dishwashers need special care when stored for long periods. Here’s how to prepare your appliances for storage:
Clean and Dry Appliances: Just like furniture, appliances should be cleaned thoroughly before storage. Remove any dirt, food particles, or soap residue using appropriate cleaning agents such as baking soda or white vinegar. Once cleaned, allow the appliances to dry completely. Moisture left inside can lead to mould, mildew, or rust.
Unplug and Disconnect: Make sure all appliances are unplugged from their power sources. For washing machines or dishwashers, disconnect hoses and leave them to dry. When storing appliances like refrigerators or freezers, leave the doors slightly open to allow air circulation and prevent bad smells or mould growth.
Secure Loose Parts: For larger appliances like ovens, microwaves, or washing machines, make sure any loose parts, such as knobs or trays, are secured. Wrap cords neatly and tape them to the back of the appliance to prevent tangling.
For small appliances like toasters, blenders, or microwaves, consider storing them in airtight containers to keep out dust and pests.
Extra Steps for Long-Term Furniture Storage
Once everything is packed and stored, there are a few extra steps you can take to protect your items while they are in long-term storage:
Use Charcoal or Silica Gel: To prevent moisture build-up, place charcoal briquettes or silica gel packets around your storage unit. These materials absorb excess moisture, reducing the risk of mould or mildew forming on wooden or fabric items.
Label Everything: Clearly label all boxes and items, especially if you’re storing them for a long time. Include a detailed description of what’s inside, so you won’t have to dig through boxes when you need to retrieve something later.
Regularly Check Your Storage Unit: If possible, visit your storage unit periodically to check on your items. This allows you to spot any issues, such as leaks, pests, or mould, before they cause serious damage.
Conclusion
Storing your furniture and appliances for the long term can be easy and stress-free with the right approach. By selecting the right storage unit, using the proper packing materials, and following careful preparation steps, you can protect your items from damage and deterioration. Whether you’re storing valuable antiques or everyday household items, taking these precautions will ensure everything remains in excellent condition.
For professional and affordable furniture storage, contact We Pack & Store today. We offer reliable storage solutions at up to 50% cheaper than the competition, ensuring your belongings are safe and well cared for during their time in storage. We also offer Free Collection when you store for 6 months or more. Need help with packing? Ask about our packing service, where our team can expertly wrap and pack your items before we take them into storage, giving you complete peace of mind.
