Chances are, if you rent a self-storage unit, you’ll use it to store some furniture. Whether you’re storing a bed set or antique tables, you should take care to protect your furniture before moving it into the unit.
Using these five tips to make sure your furniture stays safe and secure while in storage:
Disassemble What You Can: Furniture pieces that can be disassembled should be taken apart to prevent legs and other pieces from breaking off or causing odd barriers in storage. This also helps makes more space available inside your storage unit. Make sure you label the pieces and keep them together.
Clean It First: Polish and wax wooden furniture to help keep moisture out during storage. Make sure it dries before moving it. Even upholstered items and mattresses should be cleaned before storage. Try using antibacterial fabric cleaners, which are available at most home stores.
Prevent Scratches with Wrap: It’s easy to accidentally chip or scratch your furniture while moving the pieces into a storage unit, which can lower their value. Use special wrapping materials designed for furniture. For example, protective covers are available at most home and bedding supply stores. Packaging or cushioning material such as quilts and towels can also be wrapped carefully around furniture to add an extra layer of protection.
Rent a Temperature-Controlled Storage Unit: Wood can warp due to heat and moisture, so if you have lots of wooden pieces of furniture, it might be worth renting a temperature-controlled storage unit. This can also prevent mold and mildew from setting in and damaging your belongings over time.
Be Careful with Stacking: Using wood pallets is always recommended to keep your furniture off the ground and to encourage airflow. Stack items logically, but don’t stack anything on top of leather furniture.