By putting old furniture in an off-site storage unit, you can hold on to antiques, family heirlooms, and other cherished belongings while creating more space inside your house. As the facility could be exposed to fluctuating temperatures and humidity, take the proper precautions to protect your items. The following tips to prepare your furniture for storage will prevent splintering, warping, and additional wear. 

How to Store Furniture Safely

1. Disassemble Parts

Anything that can be disassembled shouldn’t be put into the storage unit fully built. Taking apart bed frames, removing legs from tables, and dismantling other parts first will create more room inside the unit.

It will also be easier to navigate the confined area without fear of bumping furniture into door frames and causing permanent damage. To avoid confusion later, keep bolts, nails, and fasteners for each piece organized in labeled plastic bags.

2. Clean Surfaces

Grime can attract dust to furniture. The abrasive particles can scratch hardwood finishes, scrape glass, and break down upholstery fibers. Wiping down surfaces will prevent dust buildup inside the storage unit.

A mixture of alcohol and white vinegar will remove dust, soap stains, and additional smudges on glass surfaces and mirrors. Use a leather upholstery cleaner and vacuum other fabrics.

A microfiber cloth will lift particles from hardwood, while mild soap and water will dissolve lingering residue. To slow oxidation, wash metal surfaces with a solution of lemon juice and baking soda. After drying, wipe the furniture with a polishing cloth. 

3. Get the Appropriate Coverings

To block moisture and keep away dust, cover all items. You can use specially made furniture covers or wrap each piece in blankets or drop cloths. To prevent cracks and nicks, put fragile glass and mirrors in corrugated cardboard boxes.

Place a plastic tarp on the storage unit floor before putting items inside. The membrane will prevent damp air from seeping through the ground and destroying your belongings. 

If you are looking for a safe place in Onondaga County, NY, to keep furniture and other property, contact Drive-In Self Storage. Located in East Syracuse, the storage facility has clean units of all sizes. Call (315) 656-4256 to discuss storage unit availability. Make reservations online or find event announcements on Facebook.