Putting furniture into storage is an ideal solution if you’re in between homes or don’t have enough space for heirloom pieces, but you should always take care when doing so. While wooden furniture will last for centuries in the right environment, improper storage can cause warping, cracked paint, or even termites. Below are a few tips for ensuring that your wooden furniture is stored safely.

Effective Tips for Storing Wooden Furniture

1. Polish Pieces Before Storing

Humidity is bad for wooden furniture, but excessively dry environments can cause cracks and other serious damage, too. Applying a coat of furniture polish before putting your furniture into storage will seal in moisture until you’re ready to use the piece again.

2. Invest in Climate Control

Wood swells and shrinks with changes in the temperature, which can eventually compromise the strength and appearance of your furniture. Climate-controlled storage units maintain a stable temperature, while reducing the humidity that can promote mildew, mold, and rot.

3. Disassemble the Pieces First

If a piece of furniture can be easily disassembled, take it apart before putting it away. This allows you to individually protect each piece and use your storage space as efficiently as possible.

4. Don’t Stack Items on Top

If you’re storing a desk or dining room table, stacking boxes or other items on top might seem like a good way to maximize space. However, the weight can eventually warp or crack your pieces, especially if you’re planning on storing them for a while.

5. Use a Dust Cover

Wood furniture, especially antique pieces, can be easily scratched or damaged while you’re taking something else out. To protect the finish, cover each piece of furniture with a blanket or drop cloth, and avoid plastic, which can trap condensation and cause wood to swell.

If you’re looking for a professionally managed, secure storage facility to keep your furniture and other belongings safe, turn to Advantage Self Storage Property Management. As an industry leader, they have 31 locations throughout Texas, Colorado, and Arizona, with climate control and various size options to fit every need. Visit their website to find your nearest facility, or call (214) 669-6567 for more on their pricing and services.