STORAGE TIPS

Smart Storage Tips to Protect Your Belongings

Once you’ve selected the perfect storage unit, proper packing and organization are essential to keeping your items safe. Follow these expert tips to help prevent damage during transit and while in storage:

Choose the Right Containers: Determine whether boxes, plastic totes, or specialty containers offer the best protection for your items. Consider investing in packing materials designed to shield your belongings during the move and while stored.
Prep Appliances Properly: Clean and thoroughly dry refrigerators, stoves, freezers, and other appliances before storing. Leave appliance doors slightly open to prevent odor buildup and allow airflow.
Prevent Rust: Wipe down metal surfaces and apply a light coat of machine oil to tools, bikes, or equipment to protect against rust and corrosion.
Store Clothing with Care: Wash and dry garments, linens, curtains, and other fabric items before storage. Use hangers when possible or fold them neatly into containers to avoid attracting pests.
Protect Fragile Items: Wrap dishes, glassware, and ornaments with bubble wrap or newspaper. Use packing peanuts to fill empty spaces and avoid breakage.
Handle Furniture with Caution: Stack lightweight chairs “seat to seat,” but avoid piling heavy furniture. Cover upholstery with breathable dust covers and disassemble larger pieces before storing.
Preserve Holiday Décor: Keep decorations in their original boxes when possible, and wrap delicate items like ornaments to prevent damage.
Store Media Properly: CDs, vinyl records, and tapes should be packed in airtight containers to prevent dust, moisture, or warping.
Protect Electronics: Cover TV and computer screens with dust covers. Wrap delicate electronics in bubble wrap, especially when stored near furniture.
Organize Books & Documents: Lay books flat in boxes and fill gaps with newspaper or wrap to prevent shifting.
Prepare for Safe Stacking: Disassemble large furniture and place pieces on plastic sheeting or cardboard over pallets to protect from floor moisture.
Separate Lamp Parts: Wrap lamp bases in padding and store shades separately to prevent damage.
Electronics & Equipment: Always clean and dry all electronics before placing them into storage.

Prohibited Storage Goods

While your storage unit provides exclusive access, there are certain items that are prohibited for safety and legal reasons. These include:

Live animals or plants
Perishable food items
Liquids that may spill or leak
Explosives or fireworks
Flammable fuels or oils
Toxic or hazardous materials
Items requiring a tightly controlled environment

Following these storage best practices will help keep your belongings safe and in great condition. When in doubt, contact our team for guidance—we're happy to help you store with confidence!

Source: Self Storage Association (SSA)

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