Storing furniture can be an effective solution for managing excess belongings, whether you’re downsizing, remodeling, or just need extra space. However, the process requires careful handling to prevent damage and ensure your pieces remain in excellent condition. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the dos and don’ts of storing furniture to help you keep your items in top shape.
The Dos of Storing Furniture
1. Clean and Prepare Your Furniture
Before placing your furniture into storage, it’s crucial to prepare and clean each item thoroughly. Dust, dirt, and spills can cause long-term damage if not addressed:
- Dust Thoroughly: Start by using a soft cloth or duster to remove dust from all surfaces. For upholstered pieces, vacuum carefully to eliminate loose debris and dirt. Dust buildup can lead to staining and attract pests if not cleaned properly.
- Clean Stains: Treat any stains on fabric or leather with appropriate cleaners or conditioners. For wooden furniture, use a furniture polish or cleaner suitable for the wood type. Cleaned items will be less prone to damage and deterioration.
Proper cleaning helps to prevent mold and mildew growth and keeps pests at bay, ensuring your furniture stays in top condition throughout the storage period.
2. Disassemble Where Possible
Disassembling furniture can significantly save space and reduce the risk of damage during storage. For items such as bed frames, tables, and bookshelves, consider these steps:
- Remove Legs and Shelves: Detach removable parts and store them separately to avoid potential damage. Keep all screws and bolts in clearly labeled bags or containers to simplify reassembly when you need to retrieve the furniture.
- Wrap Parts Individually: Use bubble wrap or protective paper to wrap each disassembled part. This added layer of protection helps prevent scratches and dents and makes reassembly easier.
Disassembling and properly packing each piece of furniture ensures that it fits efficiently into the storage unit and remains safe from potential damage.
3. Use Furniture Covers
Protective covers are essential for keeping your furniture clean and shielded from potential damage. Proper covering can make a significant difference in maintaining the quality of your items:
- Plastic Wrap or Furniture Covers: Utilize plastic wrap or specialized furniture covers to protect your items from dust and potential moisture. Ensure that the covers are breathable to prevent mold growth.
- Blankets and Moving Pads: For added protection, wrap delicate or high-value pieces in moving blankets or padded covers. This cushioning helps absorb any impact and keeps furniture safe from accidental bumps and scratches.
Using appropriate covers and padding will help preserve the condition of your furniture and prevent it from accumulating dust and dirt during storage.
4. Opt for Climate-Controlled Storage
For valuable or sensitive furniture, particularly in areas with significant seasonal temperature changes, such as Missouri, a climate-controlled unit is highly recommended:
- Temperature Regulation: Climate-controlled units maintain a consistent temperature, which is crucial for preventing warping, cracking, or distortion of wood and other materials. This is particularly important in Missouri, where temperature fluctuations can be extreme.
- Humidity Control: Such units also manage humidity levels to prevent moisture-related issues like mold and mildew growth. Proper humidity control is essential for preserving the integrity of upholstered and wooden furniture.
Choosing a climate-controlled unit ensures that your furniture is protected from the adverse effects of temperature and humidity changes, keeping it in excellent condition over time.
The Don’ts of Storing Furniture
1. Avoid Using Plastic Bags Directly on Wood
Using plastic bags directly on wooden furniture can lead to moisture accumulation and damage:
- Use Breathable Covers: Opt for breathable materials such as fabric furniture covers or blankets that allow air circulation. This prevents moisture from being trapped, which can lead to warping and discoloration of the wood.
Preventing moisture buildup is crucial for maintaining the appearance and durability of wooden furniture during storage.
2. Don’t Overpack the Storage Unit
Overpacking your storage unit can lead to damage and makes it difficult to access your items when needed:
- Allow Airflow: Ensure there is adequate space around each piece of furniture to allow air to circulate. This helps prevent the growth of mold and mildew and keeps the unit from becoming overcrowded.
- Distribute Weight Evenly: Avoid stacking heavy items on top of delicate pieces. Instead, distribute weight evenly to prevent crushing or warping, which can occur if items are improperly stacked.
Proper packing and organization will help maintain the condition of your furniture and make it easier to retrieve items when needed.
3. Never Store Furniture Without Proper Support
Providing adequate support is essential to avoid damage during storage:
- Support Cushions and Upholstery: Ensure that cushions and upholstered items are properly supported to maintain their shape and prevent sagging. Store these items flat or with sufficient support underneath to avoid deformation.
- Use Proper Racking: Store furniture on sturdy racks or pallets to keep it off the floor and away from potential moisture. This prevents dampness from affecting the furniture and ensures it stays in good shape.
Proper support helps maintain the structural integrity of your furniture and minimizes the risk of damage from pressure or moisture.
4. Don’t Ignore Pests and Insects
Furniture can attract pests if not properly protected. To prevent infestations:
- Use Pest-Repellent Measures: Consider placing pest-repellent products or natural deterrents in the storage unit to keep insects and rodents at bay. Ensure that the storage unit is clean and well-maintained to avoid attracting pests.
- Regular Inspections: Periodically check on your stored furniture to ensure no pest activity. Early detection allows you to address any issues before they cause significant damage.
Taking measures against pests will help protect your furniture from potential infestations and damage during its time in storage.
By following these dos and don’ts, you can effectively store your furniture and ensure it remains in excellent condition, whether you’re managing seasonal transitions or undergoing major life changes. Proper preparation and careful consideration will help preserve the quality and value of your furnishings for years to come.
