Self-storage rentals offer a convenient way to free up space in your garage and house while keeping items you don't use all year long safe. You can also use such units to store your items before a move. Proper packaging can help prevent moisture, mold and pest damage that your belongings may succumb to while in storage. Here are some handy tips on how to store furniture and clothing in a self-storage unit so as to maintain them in the best possible condition.
Tips on storing clothing items
Clothing items are typically made of fragile material that needs unique storage to preserve its value. For starters, you should keep coats, shirts and trousers on hangers so as to ensure they are well ventilated within the storage space, before covering them with dust covers to protect from dirt, pollen and other debris. This would help prevent moisture or humidity damage which would otherwise occur had the clothes been piled on each other.
For items that cannot be put on hangers, such as curtains and bedding, wrap them in cotton or wool covers before placing them in packing boxes. Such covers are good at absorbing moisture and thus protecting your fabrics from moisture damage, and can also preserve the temperature within the space, preventing condensation. Vinyl or plastic covers should be avoided as they lock in moisture within the clothing, causing extensive moisture damage especially during long storage.
Tips on storing furniture
Furniture can take up a lot of space, so be sure to remove the legs from bed bases, tables and chairs whenever possible so as to prevent breakage and save space. Stack your chairs seat to seat, with moving blankets or plastic covers placed between them so as to prevent dust buildup and to also save space. While seat cushions and pillows should be wrapped in plastic before being placed in storage boxes.
For lounges and sofas, be sure to thoroughly vacuum them to remove food crumbs that attract pests and rodents, before covering them with plastic covers so as to keep off dust. For large furniture such as cupboards, wall units and wardrobes, it is important that you avoid filling them up before moving them to the storage unit, as this increases the risk of damage. Stack them up with clothing and other items once they are in place and fully assembled, but keep the doors ajar so as to improve air circulation.
With winter fast approaching, it would be worthwhile to consider a climate controlled self storage rental unit so as to protect your precious belongings from extreme cold.
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