A self-storage unit is a lifesaver when you need storage space. Perhaps you have a family heirloom to save for future generations. Or maybe you’re temporarily living in a smaller home, and want to keep your old furniture. No matter the reason, self-storage can provide the space you need. Here are some tips to help protect your furniture during storage.
1. Preparing Fabrics
Cleaning fabrics help protect against mildew and mold. Sofas and chairs covered with fabric and mattresses are most likely to need this protection. An antibacterial cleaner should provide the protection you need.
Depending on product directions, you will spray or wipe the furniture surface with the cleaner. Do this at least a few hours before storing the furniture so the cleaner can completely dry. Cover the furniture with thick blankets or padded covers for further protection.
If you don’t want to purchase a cleaner, then you can make your own antibacterial spray.
2. Leather Furniture
Never apply plastic shrink wrap directly to a leather item. Wrapping a leather sofa or leather chair with plastic can trap moisture. It can also result in mold and mildew. Instead, wrap the leather in blankets to protect from dirt, scuffs, and scratches. After the blankets are in place, you can then secure them with plastic wrap.
3. Storing Wooden Furniture
First, clean and wax your wooden pieces. The moisture will help protect the wood from the heat and cold. This is especially important if the storage unit isn’t climate controlled. It’s also best to dissemble wooden furniture when possible.
Disassembling items reduces the chances of damage. For instance, it’s easier to store a wooden table if you remove its legs safely. You can also remove chair legs, and detach headboards and footboards from bed frames. Make sure to store screws and extra parts in labeled plastic freezer bags for easy reassembly.
To further protect wood, cover with a blanket or cloth. This will keep dust and dirt at bay. And place wooden items away from the door. Items farthest from the door are less likely to receive damage should water seep into the unit.
4. Protection from Critters
In addition to the elements, critters can pose a problem as well. Shrink wrap or plastic wrap can serve as a protective layer for stored furniture. A secure layer of protective wrap will keep rats and wood-burrowing insects away from your furniture.
5. Securing the Storage Unit
Moisture-proofing the storage unit provides an extra layer of protection. This step is possibly unnecessary if the unit is climate-controlled and well-insulated. But if the storage unit is in a location that’s often foggy, you’ll want a vapor barrier.
Create a barrier by covering the floor of the unit with plastic sheeting or a tarp. After the barrier is secure, carefully move your belongings into the unit.
The steps mentioned here will help protect your furniture from critters, moisture, mold, mildew, and stains, for both residential and commercial moving and storage. Check out this website for more helpful storage tips.