Storage Tips

• Plan your storage space. Store frequently used items in the front of the unit. Allow for walk ways for easier accessibility.
• Label all boxes and keep list of what is in each box. That way if you need something you can find it easier. Keep a list at home in a safe place.
• Never assume that your homeowners or renters insurance will cover your belongings while in storage. Make up an inventory or your stored items and keep it safe place at home or in a safe deposit box. You may want to purchase insurance.
• Keep a small amount of space between belongings and the unit walls
• Appliances should be clean and dry to avoid mold and mildew. Keep doors open or remove them and use the space to store blankets, linens, towels, etc. inside.
• Stuff towels between the washing machine and the inner tub to keep tub from rotating. Also remove and discard vacuum cleaner bags.
• Store mattresses and box springs on long edges. Wrap for protection and elevate off of floor for circulation. Pallets are a great way to keep items off of floor.
• Use drawers in furniture to store fragile items. Wrap items in towels, washcloths, blankets, etc. to help prevent breaking.
• Store couches on end (except hide-a-beds) to maximize space.
• Do not store sharp objects on upholstered furniture.
• DO NOT use newspaper to wrap items with. The ink may smudge off and ruin items. Use bubble wrap or newsprint packing paper.
• When packing books or heavy items, use small boxes to avoid excessive weight.
• When stacking boxes, keep the heavy ones on the bottom and lighter ones on top.
• Pictures and mirrors should be stored upright - never flat.
• Dishes and glasses should be wrapped and packed in sturdy boxes.
• When wrapping breakables, use tape. This will help remind you that there is a fragile item in the paper.
• Break down furniture whenever possible. Mark pieces well and put in drawer for easier assembly.
• If tables do not break down, store with table top down. Make sure you have a blanket or pad on the floor between the floor and the table.
• Use sheets or blankets to cover furniture and wax wood before storing them.
• When storing clothes, keep on hangers and store in wardrobe boxes. Keep out of season clothing accessible if you will be storing for a long period of time.
• Store rakes, shovels, hoses, etc. in empty garbage cans. Stack cans in one another.
• When storing bikes, tools, etc. wipe with a small amount of oil to help avoid rust. Store these items away from items that may stain.
• Clean BBQ grills and store empty gas bottles only.
• Empty gas from lawn mowers and weed wackers before storing.
• REMEMBER: Do not store any EXPLOSIVE, NOXIOUS, HAZARDOUS, FLAMMABLE, COMBUSTABLE, PERISHABLES, or ILLEGAL MATERIALS.