How to Store Furniture & Household Goods in Storage Facilities
Moving to a new location? Shifting your home or office? Whatever the reason, finding the right storage unit is key. It’s totally possible to keep your stuff safe. Just plan and use the right tricks. This guide provides expert advice on using storage units, including selecting the right size and protecting valuable items, to efficiently save space. Plus, you’ll reduce stress during storage time. We’ll walk through getting your items ready and setting up your unit for quick access.
Figuring out Your Storage Needs
To select the right storage unit, consider your moving needs, storage duration, unit size and type, and factors like climate control if it is a long-term storage, to ensure you select the proper solution. That will protect your stuff from heat and cold. Take your time and think it through, you’ll save money and hassle later.
Fixing the Right Storage Unit Size
The choice of the appropriate storage unit is crucial as too small storage can result in insufficient space for all items. Too big, and you’re paying for empty space. Here’s a quick guide to common sizes:
5×5 Unit: Great for small items, like boxes, books, or a small mattress. It’s about the size of a closet.
10×10 Unit: Good for a one-bedroom flat. Sofas, tables, and some appliances will fit.
10×20 Unit: Perfect for a two or three-bedroom house. You can store furniture, appliances, and lots of boxes.
Storage Unit Size Guide
Unit Size: Typical Contents
5×5: Boxes, books, small mattress
10×10: One-bedroom flat contents
10×20: Two to three-bedroom house contents
It’s better to overestimate slightly than to underestimate. You don’t want to play storage Tetris!
Inventorying Your Belongings
Make a list of everything you plan to store. This is important! Take photos or videos of your items. This helps you remember what you have and its condition. Use a digital inventory app to keep it all organised. These apps let you add notes and values to each item. If anything gets lost or damaged, you’ll have proof for insurance. A detailed inventory is worth its weight in gold.
Estimating Storage Duration
Will you need the unit for a few months, or longer? This impacts how you pack and prep. Short-term storage might not need as much protection. Long-term storage calls for extra care. Climate-controlled units are almost a must for long periods. They nicely save your furniture, electronics, and crucial documents from moisture and extreme temperatures.
Preparing Furniture for Storage
Getting furniture ready for storage prevents damage. It keeps everything in good shape. You may need some money to spend on it, but it’s practical & helpful. You’ll surely thank yourself later when you unpack your items.
Cleaning and Protecting Furniture Surfaces
Clean your furniture before storing it. Dust wood furniture and use furniture polish. For upholstery, vacuum it well. Clean any stains. Use a leather cleaner and conditioner to keep your leather safe from damage. This prevents cracking and drying. Use furniture protectants to guard against scratches.
Disassembling Furniture for Easier Storage
Take apart furniture when you can. Taking apart tables, bed frames, and other furniture helps save space. Put all screws and bolts in a bag. Write a label to show what they are for. Keep the bag with you to stay safe. For example, when taking apart an IKEA bed frame, label each piece. This makes putting it back together a snap.
Wrapping and Padding Furniture
Cover your furniture to prevent scratches and dents. Use soft pads or bubble wrap. Plastic wrap can also help. Wrap each piece carefully. Pay extra attention to corners and edges. Use tape to secure the wrapping. This creates a buffer against bumps and scrapes.
Protecting Household Goods
Not only furniture needs protection! Things like electronics and appliances also need special care. With just a bit of prep, you can keep them safe and sound.
Packing Electronics Safely
Pack electronics in their original boxes, if you have them. If not, use anti-static bubble wrap. Wrap each item separately. Label all cables to know where they go. Store electronics in a dry place. Humidity can really damage electronics. Throw in some silica gel packets to absorb moisture.
Storing Appliances Properly
Clean your appliances before putting them away. Defrost the fridge and freezer. Dry them well to stop mould from growing. Prop the doors open slightly to allow airflow. This stops mould and mildew from growing inside. Cover appliances with a cloth or plastic sheet to keep dust off.
Organizing and Packing Boxes Efficiently
Use sturdy boxes for packing. Distribute the weight evenly in each box. Put heavier items at the bottom. Write what is inside each box. Use bubble wrap or packing peanuts to protect things. These keep items from shifting and breaking. Reinforce the bottoms of boxes with packing tape for extra support.
Organizing Your Storage Unit
Proper storage arrangement saves space and time. It also allows you to easily find the items after shifting to a new location.
Creating an Accessible Layout
Leave walkways between your items. This makes it easier to get to everything. Store frequently needed items near the front. Place heavier items on the bottom. Lighter boxes can go on top. This prevents crushing and makes it easier to lift things.
Using Vertical Space
Use shelving units to stack boxes. Shelving lets you use the full height of the unit. Look for strong and adjustable shelving. These let you customize the layout to fit your needs. Don’t stack boxes too high. You don’t want them to topple over.
Protecting Items from Pests and Moisture
Pests and moisture can damage your belongings. Avoid storing food in your unit. Use pest control products to keep critters away. Place desiccants (moisture-absorbing packets) in boxes. Don’t store items directly on the floor. Use pallets or wooden planks to raise them.
Maintaining Your Storage Unit
Long-term storage needs upkeep. Regular checks keep your items safe. A little maintenance prevents big problems.
Regular Inspections
Watch for signs of rats, mice, or bugs. Look for leaks or water damage. Schedule reminders to do this. Look for signs of rodents or insects. Check for leaks or water damage. Fix any issues quickly to prevent further harm.
Restacking and Rearranging Items
Restack boxes to prevent crushing. Rearrange items for better organization. This method allows for the detection of potential missed damage, thereby ensuring the optimal condition of your articles.
Updating Your Inventory
Keep your inventory list updated. Note any items you add or remove. A proper list of items helps you keep track of your valuables. It’s also useful for insurance purposes.
Storing furniture and household goods is not always difficult. Proper planning and careful steps can help to store your furniture and household items safely. Arrange your unit with care, and your articles will be in good condition. Inspect your unit often and update your inventory. Then you can use storage facilities without worry. Remember, prepping is key, being organised saves time, and keeping things maintained protects what you’ve got. For more in-depth details, you can contact Arena Packers and Movers.