Hints And Tips For Safe Storage

Hints And Tips For Safe Storage

Hints and Tips for Safe Storage

Storing your stuff isn’t quite as simple as loading up the ute and chucking boxes into your secure storage unit.

It’s important to prepare your items for storage so they stay in top nick until you need them again. Store your items safely with these quick hints and tips.

 

How to Store Books and Documents

How to Store Books Safely

Keep your favourite titles clean, safe, and in shape.

Use these easy steps:

  • Always pack boxes and documents flatnot standing up – into archive boxes or book cartons.
  • Place cloth or paper between each book to protect the covers.
  • Use plastic sleeves and cardboard backing to prevent bending or tearing (especially handy for comic books).
  • Don’t overfill the boxes. You don’t want to hurt your back and be unable to help your partner with the rest of the boxes… or do you?

 

How to Store Furniture

How to Store Furniture Safely

Whether you’re moving house, renovating, or heading overseas for a while, keep your furniture in top condition while in storage with these tips:

  • Protect upholstered furniture and mattresses with a sheet or moving blanket instead of a plastic covering. Plastic is fine during short-term transit, but it can cause mould and mildew during long-term storage. See our Box Shop covers right here.
  • Place cloth or paper between stacked chairs to prevent scratches or marks.
  • While leaning mattresses on their side can maximise space, they’ll require regular turning to keep their shape. For long-term storage, lay your mattresses flat.
  • Separate your mattress and bedframe to increase ventilation and prevent mould.
  • Store drawers inside dressers to prevent dust from accumulating inside.

For a more in-depth guide to storing your furniture, check out this post.

 

How to Store Clothing, Textiles and Linens

How to Store Clothes Safely

Your favourite fabrics and clothing can be preserved for years in a self-storage unit if the proper care is taken. Seriously, your great-great-granddaughter could be rocking that wedding dress some day.

Take it from the pros:

  • Ensure all items are clean before placing into long-term storage – this could mean vacuuming, washing, or dry-cleaning, depending on the item.
  • Fold, don’t hang. Hanging can put stress on certain areas of your clothing, causing stretching or even tearing.
  • Avoid plastic, and opt for acid-free boxes to reduce the risk of mould, mildew, damage, and discolouration.
  • If you’re moving and need suits or that special dress crease free, look at our port-a-robe boxes here.

 

How to Store Fragile Items, Glassware, Silverware, and Crockery

How to Store Crockery Safely

Fragile items like glassware and crockery require a little extra TLC. Keep everything in one piece with these tips:

  • Wrap each item separately using tissue or packing paper.
  • Place polyfoam sheets between each plate, saucer, and bowl.
  • Wrap glasses in glass socks. Yes, they’re a thing.
  • Fill excess space in boxes with packing paper to avoid moving and knocking about.
  • Wipe silverware in oil before storing.
  • Keep silverware away from other items that may have rust.
  • Label boxes as ‘fragile’ and keep them away from heavy items. Grab a marker pen here.

Check out our comprehensive guide to safely storing jewellery, silverware, and china.

 

How to Store Electronic Equipment

How to Store TVs Safely

Your electronics are an investment you’ll want to protect. Keep your devices and appliances safe in storage with these steps:

  • Where possible, keep all electronics in their original packaging.
  • Unplug all cords and keep them in a bag with the equipment they belong to.
  • Remove discs and DVDs to prevent them from warping or damaging the disc drive.
  • Keep computers and TVs upright, not lying flat. A slider carton may be of use depending on the size of your T.V.
  • Keep all electronics off the ground to avoid dust.
  • Don’t cover electronics in plastic, as this can trap moisture and cause damage. Use a sheet instead.
  • Thoroughly clean and dry kitchen appliances and whitegoods before storage.
  • Keep fridge doors ajar with a deodoriser to maintain a fresh scent.

Yep – you guessed it. We have even more great tips for preparing your appliances for storage here.

 

What Not to Store

You shall not pass

Now for those items you can’t place in your self-storage unit. As a general rule of thumb, don’t store anything that’s combustible or perishable.

Unsuitable items include:

  • Petrol/gasoline
  • Paint/paint thinner
  • Solvents
  • Living things (including plants)
  • Food that will spoil.

Equipment that uses petrol (e.g. mowers) should be emptied of fuel before being placed into storage. If you’re storing a barbecue, make sure the surfaces are all clean and any gas bottles are empty.

Now you know the right way to store your stuff, find you perfect storage solution with National Storage today.

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