Storage Tips

Preparing Items for Storage

• Place smaller items in uniform sized boxes. Completely fill each box with heavier items on the bottom and lighter items on the top. Uniform sized boxes stack easier and conserve storage space.
• Use small boxes for heavier items because they will weigh less and be easier to carry.
• Books should be packed flat. This will protect the spines which will bend and warp over time if packed upright. Books are very heavy and should be packed in smaller boxes with no fragile items.
• If you place mattresses in plastic covers to protect them from dust you should also place a product, such as Damp-Rid, in with the mattress and do not seal the bag.
• Treat leather items such as couches and clothes with a leather conditioner prior to storing. Allow the items to dry at least 48 to 72 hours. If items are damp, they could have mold growing, unseen, before they are placed in the storage area.
• Clean blankets, draperies and clothing. Place on hangers in wardrobe boxes. Allow the items to dry at least 48 to 72 hours before packing.
• Wool & Silk rugs should be cleaned and completely dried before storing. Rugs should be rolled and wrapped in a protective material that is semi-permeable. The internet has a lot of good information regarding proper storage of wool and silk.
• Protect mirrors and pictures from scratches and dents by packing in similar sized knocked down boxes.
• Furniture and tables should be protected from scratches and dust by placing a blanket or drop cloth over the item.
• Photographs tend to curl over time. Place pictures between pieces of cardboard and tape the ends together. Do not store irreplaceable photos. Try to keep such items with you or store in a climate control unit.
• Breakable items need to be wrapped in bubble wrap and stored with linens.
• Dishes and glassware should be packed in specially made boxes called dish packs.
• When storing pillows and toys in large plastic garbage bags, Damp-Rid or a similar product should be placed in the bag and the bag should not be closed.
• Label the boxes with the content so you will know what is inside without opening the box.
• Appliances should be empty, cleaned and thoroughly dried prior to storage. Store upright with door ajar to allow ventilation.
• Do not store furs, jewelry, expensive items, irreplaceable items, living things, used tires, firearms, explosives, flammables or any kind (gas, diesel, oil, paint, etc.), drugs, drug paraphernalia, stolen items, hazardous items, perishable items, hazardous waste materials of any kind that produce odor.

Organizing Your Storage Unit

• Leave a considerable amount of airspace for ventilation between the items and the wall.
• Use metal or plastic shelving to keep possessions up off of the floor and organized.
• Store items that you will need access to towards the front. Groupings of boxes, by room, saves time when ready to move the items from storage.
• Place heavy items on the bottom and light weight items on top.
• Store more valuable smaller items to the rear of the unit.
• Use a high quality disc lock.
• Visit Shields Self Storage retail area for all your packing supplies.