A storage unit can be a great way to store items you just don't have space for in your home. Not everyone has storage space in their homes, and storage units can provide much-needed storage space. Before you put your items into storage, you need to make sure you are taking proper care of your items to ensure they stay safe while stored.
#1 Clean the Item Off
You should never store anything dirty. Dirt, oils, and food residue can attract pests to your storage unit. Dirty items also just don't fare as well in storage. For example, if you put a sweaty, dirty shirt in storage, it may develop a mildew smell by the time you take it out. Cleaning items before you put them in storage is the best way to ensure they come out of storage in just as good condition as they went into storage.
#2 Properly Pack Each Item
Second, make sure you take the time to properly pack each item, especially if you will be keeping the items in storage for more than a month.
Use brand new cardboard boxes instead of used cardboard boxes; you want boxes that will be able to withstand being in storage for a long time. Or use clear plastic bins to store your belonging.
For clothing and other soft items, such as blankets and curtains, just make sure they are clean and then fold them up and put them inside of a box. For items that are more fragile, such as decorations, kitchenware, and electronics, wrap them with bubble wrap, packing paper, or cloth, to cushion them and keep them safe. For furniture, wrap up the legs, and put sheets over the furniture. Do not put plastic, which can trap moisture and damage your furniture.
#3 Carefully Stack Items
Don't just shove items into the storage unit. Place pallets on the floor to create a barrier between the floor and your items. Set up shelves to you can easily swap out boxes and items when you need them.
Put boxes that are heavy on the bottom of your storage unit and stack lighter boxes on top. You want your storage space to be organized and easy to navigate. This will help protect your items and make it easier for you to get things in and out of your storage unit.
If you need some extra storage space, rent a storage unit. Make sure you clean and properly pack items before you put them in storage and create an orderly system for putting items into your storage unit.
Contact Abes Self Storage to learn more.
