How to store furniture

Storage Tips: How To Store Furniture In A Storage Unit

Ian Mutuli
Updated on
Ian Mutuli

Ian Mutuli

Founder and Managing Editor of Archute. He is also a graduate architect from The University of Nairobi, Kenya.
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When moving into a new home, knowing where to put all your furniture can be difficult. Rather than storing them in your backyard or garage, consider using a storage unit instead. A storage unit is a secure location where you can store items not currently being used. This includes large items like tables and chairs and smaller items like clothing and linens.

Not only will this free up space in your home, but storing things in a storage unit will also help protect them from damage caused by dust or moisture buildup.

Here are my top tips for storing furniture in a storage unit.

Tips For Finding The Right Storage Unit

There are many things you must consider when it comes to storage. First, you must ensure the facility is safe and secure and that you get the best deal for your money. With all the options, figuring out where to start or what questions to ask can take time. Here are some critical things to consider:

  • Choosing between self-storage or portable storage – Self-storage is a fixed location where you store your items, usually on-site with the facility owner. Portable storage is more flexible; it’s a movable container that can be moved from place to place.
  • Comparing quotes – Compare quotes from more than one provider. Be bold and ask questions, and be confident to walk away if you don’t like the answers you’re getting. Then, you can negotiate the price or other aspects of the rental agreement. For example, when looking for options, I found affordable storage Townsville options that offered excellent security for reasonable prices.
  • Read the fine print – It’s a good idea to read the fine print. Sometimes things aren’t included in price quotes—like electricity costs, which can add up quickly over time!
  • Visit the facility in person – Take a tour and ask questions about security features and cleanliness. Make sure there is 24-hour access available while on your tour, as well as cameras or other monitoring equipment in each unit.

How to Store Furniture

How to store furniture

Image Credits: Storagemart.com.ph

1. Prep Before You Store Your Furniture

Before storing furniture in a storage unit, it’s essential to ensure everything is clean and dry. Use a vacuum to remove dust and debris from cracks or crevices on your furniture. If there are any spills, use a damp cloth to clean them up.

For the piece of furniture not to get damaged by humidity over time, use a dry cloth (or towel) to wipe down the surface of your item. If any wet spots remain after cleaning up spills or watermarks on your furniture, use a hair dryer or heat gun to dry those areas before storing them in your unit!

Dust could build up over time on the furniture in a storage unit, so cleaning it before storing it is essential. Dust can damage the fabric of your furniture, which can lead to holes and tears in the furniture fabric if you put them away dirty. It could even attract insects and pests that will eat through your belongings, including food products stored inside the unit.

In addition, dust can attract mold and mildew and cause allergies and asthma attacks in some people. 

2. Using Suitable Materials To Keep The Furniture Protected 

Use suitable protective material

Image Credits: Lifestorage.com

Using appropriate materials to keep the furniture protected in a storage unit is essential.

  • It’s best to use thick plastic sheets to cover your furniture. This will protect it from dust, moisture, and bugs, which can all cause damage over time. If you don’t have enough plastic sheeting on hand, you can ensure there are no gaps between pieces by using blankets or towels for added protection. You should also use similar protection for walls, floors, and ceilings.
  • Be sure that every item has its own space in your storage unit, so there is less risk of damage from being stacked on top of each other.
  • If you have wooden or veneered furniture, apply a fine layer of wax or polish. You can also use paste wax. This will help protect your furniture from dust and dirt. When applying the wax, use a soft cloth to rub it on all surfaces to create an even sheen.

4. Use A Furniture Dolly Or Moving Straps

Furniture dollies are a great way to move heavy furniture when you or your helpers can’t lift it. If you move furniture independently, consider getting one and wheeling the large items instead of raising them.

Use straps and strapping tape (or just duct tape) to strap furniture together so that it’s easier for you and your helpers to move.

5. Stack And Anchor Heavy Items To The Walls Of The Unit For Stability

Stack heavy items on the walls

Image Credits: Exclusivelyhome.com

  • Stack heavy objects on their side against the walls of your unit.
  • Anchor heavy items to the walls of your unit for stability, using pallets or other materials you have on hand.
  • Leave at least 3 inches of space between objects in a storage unit so they don’t damage each other during transport and excessive movement.
  • Wrap upholstered furniture in plastic wrap to protect it from water damage during transport to and from the storage facility if you’re storing it outside in weather-proof materials (such as cardboard or tarps).

6. Leave Space Between furniture And Use Pallets To Raise Furniture From The Floor

  • Leave space between your furniture. This will keep your furniture organized and makes room for air circulation, which helps prevent any mildew or mold from forming on the furniture you’ve stored.
  • Use pallets to raise furniture off of the floor. Pallets are great because they’re sturdy and durable, but they’re also inexpensive. You can use these platforms to elevate large pieces of furniture off the floor—the higher up an object is positioned, the better its chances are of avoiding damage while in storage.
  • Use a storage unit with climate control (temperature and humidity). If you opt for this extra layer of protection for your belongings, ensure that it’s included in your rental agreement from day one; otherwise, there might be added costs down the line!

Takeaway

We hope these tips and tricks will help you be more prepared for storing your furniture in a storage unit. Remember: it’s essential to clean and dust before storing your furniture so that it stays protected during its time away from home. Also, remember to protect wooden or veneered items with a layer of wax or polish!

Frequently asked questions

1. Should the furniture be stored in the garage?

Storing furniture in the garage can be a risky venture, especially if you’re not careful. Wooden furniture and upholstered items are particularly vulnerable to extreme temperature and humidity changes, as well as absorbing car fumes and attracting pests.

If you decide to store furniture in the garage, consider using climate-controlled storage and take measures to protect metal furniture from rust and antique furniture from dust. To protect upholstered furniture, cover it with a sheet or plastic wrap. Ultimately, it’s best to consult a professional to decide the best storage solution for your furniture.

2. How can I store my furniture in the right way?

If you want to store furniture, you must consider all your options. From renting a storage unit to selling a few pieces, carefully weigh the pros and cons of each. Clean and dry furniture thoroughly before packing. Remove the legs and drawers and store them separately.

Opt for a climate-controlled storage unit to protect furniture from extreme weather and outdoor elements. If not, use plastic sheeting, bubble wrap, and plastic wrap to keep furniture safe and secure.

Furniture covers are an excellent option for those looking to store upholstered furniture. They protect furniture from dust, dirt, and any other unwanted particles. Leather furniture should be cleaned with a polishing cloth to avoid any damage before being covered.

Be sure to use furniture covers made of breathable materials to ensure that your furniture doesn’t get moldy. It is best to wrap the furniture in drop cloths or plastic sheeting for long-term storage to help protect it. This is especially important if you’re storing your furniture in a self-storage or climate-controlled storage unit.

You should also use packing paper and bubble wrap to protect glass items like tabletops and seat cushions. Long-term furniture storage necessitates some additional considerations. Ensure all furniture pieces are completely dry before storing them and clean them regularly with a wood cleaner to protect them from scratches and dust. In addition, you can use cinder blocks or old sheets to raise furniture off the ground, which will save space in the storage unit. Use a small plastic bag to store electronics or other small items with each piece of furniture.

3. How can I protect my furniture from the elements?

Protecting furniture in storage is essential for maintaining its good condition. Whether you’re renting a storage unit or storing furniture in your garage, there are a few steps to take to ensure your furniture is properly protected.

Investing in a climate-controlled storage unit, cleaning your furniture thoroughly, and wrapping it with bubble wrap or plastic wrap are key steps to protecting furniture in storage. Taking the time to store furniture now properly will save you time, money, and hassle in the long run.

4. Should I be worried about mold when storing my furniture?

Yes, mold can be a setback! Protect your furniture with furniture covers, plastic sheeting, and plastic wrap. It is critical to protect your furniture when storing it for an extended period of time. Plastic sheeting and plastic wrap are great for keeping dust and debris away from your furniture, while furniture covers are good for protecting against scratches, dents, and other minor damages.

Drop cloths are also a great way to protect your furniture from the elements. You can ensure your furniture is stored safely and securely with a few simple steps. So don’t forget to store your furniture correctly! Invest in the right materials and find a reliable self-storage facility for long-term storage. This will help you keep your furniture safe and in good condition for years to come.

5. What are the best materials for furniture storage?

One should invest in bubble wrap, plastic stretch wrap, sealable plastic bags, and other protective items when moving furniture. These items are easily accessible and relatively inexpensive, making them a great option for anyone looking to protect their furniture during a move. Additionally, it may be beneficial to consider renting a self-storage unit or a climate-controlled storage facility to store furniture in between moves. This will help ensure your furniture stays safe and secure, no matter the weather conditions.

6. Will plastic wrap damage my furniture?

It’s important to take extra precautions when moving wood furniture to avoid damage. Plastic wrap may not be the ideal protective measure, as it is not thick enough to protect against warps, dents, and cracks. Moving blankets, bubble wrap, and corrugated cardboard sheets are better options. Furthermore, you can use an upholstery cleaner to trap moisture and prevent mold, while plastic sheeting can provide extra protection when storing your furniture. Taking extra precautions to protect your wooden furniture will ensure it remains in great condition.

Ian Mutuli

About the author

Ian Mutuli

Founder and Managing Editor of Archute. He is also a graduate architect from The University of Nairobi, Kenya.
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