Storage Tips
Packing Tips for Hassle Free Storage
Inventory
Depending on your organizational style, it might help to keep a running list of all the items you’re packing – that way you know what’s in your storage unit when you come back to it later. Or if you’re more visual, draw yourself a rough map of where you place certain boxes in storage. However you do it –labeling is important. Making your life easier post-storing is key for stress free storage retrieval.
Space
You want to fit as much stuff in as little space as possible. This means breaking down anything you can (think removable legs or pieces) , rolling clothes, stacking dishes and other nick knack’s inside each other – you get the idea. You can even use large appliances to store things in – think book collection in the refrigerator.
Time
Give yourself as much time as possible during the packing phase. If you pack everything efficiently the first time by sorting, separating and organizing everything to begin with, unpacking in the end will be a much easier and more pleasurable process.
Materials
Start gathering the packing materials you’ll need well in advance of your storage move – often times there are sites like cragslist.com or freecycle.org that have FREE packing materials offered in the FREE section! That’s awesome! Some things you may need to find or buy are sturdy boxes, packing tape, thick markers, old sheets for furniture covering and bubble wrap. Remember that old newspapers or other recyclable paper can sometimes be used in place of bubble wrap – think dishes or picture frames.
Top Tips for Storing Common Items
Kitchen supplies and fine glassware
You can stack these items in a box with enough packing material in between each piece. Pans and bowls with similar shapes stack nicely with padding between them. Take extra care with your fine glassware being careful not to over pack boxes and being generous with packing materials!
Wooden Furniture
Since wooden furniture is permeable it can absorb excess moisture. One of the best ways to protect it is with a paste wax coating which acts as a covering and covers tiny cracks. In addition to this it’s safe to cover it completely with sheets and tarps as well.
Clothes
Clear plastic containers can be used for easy viewing retrieval. Clean, unused suitcases work great as well to save money on storage containers. For apparel that needs to maintain its original shape put it on hangers in wardrobe boxes. Storing clothes in plastic or vinyl bags is not recommended as they promote mildew growth, discoloration, and odors. If space permits, lie clothes flat when possible. Otherwise, rolling clothes maximizes space and helps prevent wrinkles.
Refrigerator
Unplug, defrost, and remove all shelves and bins. Clean and dry thoroughly with surface cleaner and store partly open to prevent mold growth.
Matresses
Store your mattresses in an upright position wrapped in a large plastic bag or a sheet of plastic sealed with duct tape. It’s very important that it be sealed completely to prevent any moisture or dirt getting in. Also, it’s best to avoid stacking stuff on top of your mattress so you don’t end up with a lumpy, unusable one that needs replacing.
Electronic Media
Use airtight containers to prevent moisture and mold. Always back up electronic copies stored in another location just in case. A great way to store is in the original containers if you’ve kept them. Make sure you store in a climate controlled environment since electronics are sensitive to moisture and heat.
