Storage Tips

The smartest move into a storage unit starts with a simple plan and a few tips from the Pros! Here are some of the basics:

• When packing your storage unit, create a center aisle for access to all items and put frequently used items near the front.
• Do not store combustibles such as fuel, paint and thinners. Do not store perishables or hazardous waste.
• Climate-controlled storage units are ideal for heat-and-moisture sensitive items such as videotapes, photographs and precious wood furniture.
• Label boxes on all sides with the room they are from and their contents. Keep list for easy reference.
• Stack heavy boxes on bottom and lighter ones on top to prevent them from being crushed.
• Securely latch and lock your storage room door before leaving!!!

Furniture:

• Remove legs and wrap with furniture pads to protect from soil and scratches.
• Disassemble bed frames and tie them together to save space.
• Wrap and label all pieces for easy reassembly.
• Put all hardware in marked bags.
• Place pads, blankets, or towels between stacked furniture to prevent scratching.
• Avoid plastic covers in non-climate storage as moisture can condense under plastic.
• Wrap mattresses in mattress bags or cover them with paper or cloth.
• Stand mattresses and sofas on end with cardboard or pallets underneath to avoid moisture.

Pictures and Mirrors:

• Wrap small pictures in foam or bubble wrap and stand them on end in boxes. Store larger pictures in picture boxes.
• Keep photographs from curling by placing them between two pieces of cardboard and taping them together.
• Do not store irreplaceable photos.

Crystal, China, Glassware:

• Wrap each item individually and store in specially-designed boxes with dividers. Put a layer of padding on top and bottom.
• Stand bowls, cups and plates on end. Fill all pockets with padding.
• Label boxes as “glass” and stack these on top.

Clothing, Curtains, Drapes:

• Store clothing, curtains and drapes in wardrobe boxes on non-rusting hangers.
• Use drawers to store delicate items.
• Store wool with cedar chips or mothballs to prevent moth damage.

Kitchen:

• Pack several small appliances or several pots and pans in one box with packing material between them.
• Label the box with “Kitchen” and all the items it contains.

Appliances:

• Clean and dry appliances and keep refrigerator doors slightly ajar.
• Use the space inside appliances to such things as blankets and towels.

Books:

• Pack books flat to prevent damage to the spines.
• Place in small boxes so they don’t weight too much to lift.

Metal Objects:

• Tools and bikes should be wiped with machine oil to avoid rust.
• Keep these away from other items.

Gas-Powered:

• Drain gasoline and oil from lawn mowers and other items with small engines.