Storage Tips
After
choosing the right facility to fit your needs, it is essential that you pack
your belongings in storage correctly. Here are some tips to consider for
preventing damage:
- Thoroughly clean,
disinfect and dry refrigerators, freezers, stoves and other appliances.
Appliances with doors can be stored with the door slightly open, and some
can be stacked on top of each other.
- Retard rust by wiping
down all types of metal surfaces before storing. Use a few drops of
machine oil to lightly coat these items for preventing rust and possible
deterioration.
- Store clothing on
hangers before folding them into cartons. Make sure all drapes, curtains,
linens and clothing items are washed and dry, or dry cleaned to avoid
attracting pests.
- Use bubble wrap and
other materials when storing dishes and glassware. Pack similar items in
the same box and fill empty spaces with packing peanuts, bubble wrap or
newspaper.
- Stack lightweight chairs
“seat to seat”, but avoid stacking other types of furniture on top of each
other. Cover all upholstery with light cotton dust covers.
- Holiday decorations can
be stored in their original cartons. Wrap glass ornaments and other delicate
items in bubble wrap or newspaper before storing in boxes or totes.
- CDs, tapes, records and
other music items can be stored in boxes or airtight cartons to prevent
damage.
- Cover computer screens
and large television screens with dust covers and wrap in bubble wrap if
you are storing these items next to furniture and other equipment.
- Pack all books, files,
and documents flat, and use bubble wrap or newspaper to fill any empty
spaces in the boxes or totes.
- Disassemble furniture
and place pieces on a corrugated cardboard mat or plastic sheet before
placing on a pallet.
- Wrap lamp bases in
padding and store the lamp shade and base separately.
- Be sure to clean and dry
all electrical equipment before storing.
Prohibited Storage Goods
Even though you alone control access to your
storage space, there are some items that cannot be stored in your unit at any
time. These include:
- Live animals
- Perishables
- Liquids
- Explosives
- Flammable liquids and
fuels
- Toxic materials
Any
items that need to be in a controlled environment
Source: Self Storage
Association (SSA)
