Storage Tips
- Keep a Log Book of your stored contents. to help you locate all and every item stored with ease.
- Plan ahead. Keep your frequently used items at the front of your unit where you can get at them easily.
- Cover up. Protect your furniture, including mattresses and box springs, with mattress covers designed for the item.
- Think vertical. Make best use of your storage area by stacking to the ceiling, working from heaviest items on the bottom to lightest items on top.
- Don’t over-reach. Use a stool to stack and reach items stored above your head.
- Optimize your space. Break down any furniture that has removable legs, leaves or other parts. Stack chairs seat-to-seat with towels or blankets between them.
- Multi-task. Use your refrigerator or other appliances to store things like linens – even books or CDs. Wedge the door of any appliances open so air can circulate inside them.
- Take a breath. Leave a little space between the walls and put pallets or a grid of 2"x3" on the unit floor and your stored items to allow for ventilation.
- Tool up. Shovels, hoes, rakes and hoses can be stored together in empty trash cans. Stack extra cans inside one another.
- Clear the air. If you’re storing a gas-powered lawnmower or leaf blower, prevent unpleasant odors by draining the tank before you put it in your unit.
- Be prepared. Keep an extra emergency preparedness kit in your storage unit. If your home is inaccessible, you’ll have a second supply resource.
Furniture & Appliances
- Rent, or purchase an appliance dolly for furniture, major appliances, and stacks of boxes.
- Remember, loading heavy furniture and appliances is not a one-person job. Get help.
- For major appliances, consult your user's manuals for specific moving and safety instructions.
- Wipe and dry the interiors of all appliances.
- Tape and/or tie down all movable parts.
Beds
- Disassemble the bed frame and mark each piece so you will have an easy time putting it back together. (Use packing tape to tie rails together.)
- Wrap mattresses in plastic mattress covers.
Books
- Never pack more than 30 pounds of books in a box
- Alternate bindings, and cushion with packing paper.
Clothing
- Hang clothing from closets in wardrobe boxes or plastic garment bags.
- Store clothing from dresser drawers in sturdy cardboard boxes. If the boxes still have some space, consider filling them with bubble wrap.
Mirrors & Lamps
- Wrap in bubble wrap and stack in a large box with bubble wrap or large peanuts.
- Remove light bulbs, harps, and lamp shades off lamp.
- Mirrors should be wrapped in paper, covered with cardboard.
