How to Pack Furniture into Self-Storage

Self-storage is an ideal alternative to storing precious property, such as furniture. While relocating, downsizing, or remodeling their homes, people need somewhere to store their bulky items. When stashing these items in storage, tenants must prepare them accordingly. Not only is it good practice to pack belongings safely to protect them, but it will lengthen the lifespan of items overall. When running your own self-storage facility, you know this. You also know that there are steps your tenants can take to ensure items are safe in storage. Here are some reminders that you can encourage tenants to follow before storing their furniture in self-storage.

Clean Before Storage
Cleaning furniture before storing it is essential to maintain its quality and prolong its lifespan. To effectively clean different types of furniture, it is important to follow specific processes. These processes may vary depending on the material and condition of the furniture. Tenants should use wood cleaner and polish for cabinets and dressers. Customers can clean the upholstery on couches and chairs, using steam for a deep clean. For a tidy storage experience, make sure tenants are cleaning their items thoroughly. By taking the time to properly clean furniture before storage, your customers can help ensure that it remains in good condition for future use.

Disassemble Larger Pieces
When it comes to furniture, disassembling it can provide several benefits. It can make it easier to move furniture from one location to another. This is particularly true for larger pieces of furniture, such as sofas, beds, or cabinets. Drawers should be taken out of the dressers. Customers should unscrew the legs on couches, chairs, and tables. Connective pieces in furniture are typically delicate and should be taken apart to keep from breaking.

Disassembling furniture can also make it easier to store it. With limited storage space, it can be challenging to find a suitable place to store larger furniture pieces. Disassembling them can help reduce their size, making it easier to store them in a more compact space.

Wrap Furniture Properly
Wrapping furniture will protect it from scratches, dents, and other damage that can occur during the moving process. To achieve this, several types of protective materials can be used, such as bubble wrap, furniture blankets, and shrink wrap. Each of these materials has its benefits and should be selected based on the specific needs of the furniture being transported.

When it comes to wrapping different furniture items, various techniques can be used. Chairs and tables can be wrapped in furniture blankets and secured with tape or bands. Sofas and mattresses should be wrapped in plastic or shrink wrap to protect them from dirt and moisture. Delicate items such as mirrors and glass table tops should be wrapped in bubble wrap and secured with tape. By using the appropriate protective materials and wrapping techniques, your tenants can ensure that their furniture remains in the same condition as when it was packed.

Elevate to Protect from Moisture
Elevating furniture helps to prevent moisture damage as it ensures that the furniture is not in direct contact with the ground. When furniture is in direct contact with the ground, it can absorb moisture which can lead to warping, swelling, and even mold growth.

There are various methods for elevating furniture such as using pallets or blocks. These methods can help create an air gap between the furniture and the ground which allows air to circulate and prevents moisture from accumulating, extending its lifespan.

Store in a Climate-Controlled Environment
To ensure that sensitive items are protected, tenants should store them in climate-controlled environments. Weather conditions are always a concern no matter where you live, and it makes sense to utilize the advantages that a temperature-controlled storage unit can provide. Climate-controlled storage allows tenants to control the temperature and humidity of a storage unit. Keeping a consistent environment prevents extreme temperature fluctuations, which can cause damage to various woods, metals, and fabrics.

Additional Tips for Furniture Protection
Several things can be done to protect furniture from damage, and letting your tenants know these will ensure overall self-storage success. Avoid direct contact with the floor. This can be done by using felt pads or other types of furniture glides underneath the legs of furniture. Furniture covers protect items from dust, dirt, and other environmental factors that can cause wear and tear. Encourage tenants to regularly check any stored items to ensure they are not being damaged or affected by changes in temperature or humidity.

Protect Your Property
Tenant Property Protection® has protection plans available to give tenants peace of mind. After taking precautions in packing up furniture to be stored for any length of time, purchasing property protection is an added layer to the prepping process. We make it easy for you as a business owner to sell the property protection your tenants need, and your tenants will be satisfied with our services as well. Learn how you can get started when you contact us today.