Storage Tips – How to Properly Store Furniture in a Storage Locker

How do you properly store and protect furniture in a storage unit? We’ve put together some furniture specific storage tips, to help you protect any furniture piece, regardless of its material — from tables and desks to chairs and couches, to priceless family heirlooms.

 TIP #1: CLEAN FURNITURE THOROUGHLY

One of the key things to do to help protect your furniture in storage is by never putting dirty items inside. Not only will offensive odors travel to nearby units, but cleaning will also significantly cut down on the chance of mold and the amount of dust in your storage space.

Some tips for cleaning furniture for storage:

• For plastic furniture, use a mild soap and water.
• For wooden pieces, and especially antiques, use a wood cleaner like Murphy Oil Soap to protect the existing finish on the wood.
• Be sure to also clean fabric items like couches or seat cushions with fabric or upholstery cleaner. Check that everything is completely dry before you start packing it up.
• Polish any metal sections with a polishing cloth and metal cleaner. This step will help remove any existing oxidation and delay the build-up of tarnish.

TIP #2: DISASSEMBLE FURNITURE WHEN POSSIBLE

Before moving furniture from its original location, disassemble anything you can — this includes desks, bookshelves, tables, chairs and more. This extra step will make your truck, and later your self storage unit, much easier to pack. And it will also reduce the likelihood of breaking or scratching anything. Put all screws, bolts, allen keys, and other small parts in a labeled envelope or sandwich bag and store it alongside the furniture piece to which it belongs. We recommend taping the envelop or bag to the underside of the furniture or in a drawer, so it doesn’t get lost and doesn’t damage any surface finishings.

TIP #3: WRAP IT UP

Make sure everything is completely covered, including the floor that you plan to put the piece on. In the case of an emergency climate issue, before putting anything inside your storage space, lay down a tarp or thick plastic sheeting on the floor to prevent moisture from the floor from seeping into your furniture.

Use old sheets, blankets or drop cloths cover the pieces and protect them from dust and moisture. We recommend avoiding wrapping any wood furniture in thick plastic as it can seal in moisture and create condensation which will cause wood furniture to swell. Wrap furniture so that it can breathe by loosely draping the material over the furniture.

TIP #4: PROTECT GLASS

Glass tabletops and mirrors require some extra care. First, wrap the piece with packing paper. Don’t tape the paper directly to the glass, as it will leave a nasty residue for you to clean later.
Afterward, either cover the glass in bubble wrap or put the entire item into a box for some extra security. Use a box that is long and wide, but relatively flat, similar to the shape of the glass itself. Ensure you clearly mark your box as Fragile and indicate which side is up.

TIP #5:  WHERE YOU ARE GETTING YOUR BOXES?

It seems obvious, but never leave anything perishable in your storage unit that may attract bugs or unwanted critters. This advice extends to any cardboard storage boxes you use—never use anything that previously came from a grocery store or might be soiled in any way. While storage facilities are treated with pest control regularly, you can never be too careful.

TIP #6: BE MINDFUL OF SPACE

One of the worst experiences we hear from our customers is when they are looking for something and realize that the item is at the back of a fully packed storage locker. Regardless if you’re just doing a quick move in/move out, we recommend ensuring you have a clear pathway to all of your boxes and belongings.

The best way to pack furniture into your storage unit methodically by starting with the largest pieces and working in boxes and small items in at the end. Avoid cramming items in, as you’ll allow air to flow freely between the furniture, which will help protect your items from damage, and you’ll reduce the risk of accidental damage to your pieces should you ever need to remove them from your unit.

Storing furniture in a storage unit doesn’t need to be complicated or stressful. Take the time to prep your furniture before you move it as well as prep your storage space. Make sure you pick out the appropriate size storage unit for the amount of stuff you have and the move in and storing process should be quite simple. Keep these tips in mind to assure the best storage experience possible. And if you have any questions about storing your possessions, feel free to contact us.