When it comes to moving or storing furniture, it's not uncommon to worry about the potential for damage. After all, furniture can be expensive, and some pieces may even hold significant sentimental value. Whether you're downsizing your home, relocating to a new city, or simply looking to free up some space, proper storage techniques are key to ensuring your furniture remains in good condition.

With the help of a few simple tips, it's possible to protect your belongings from damage and keep them in great shape for years to come.

Choose What to Store

The first step in effectively storing furniture is deciding which items you want to store. Packing, transporting, and storing large items can be a hassle, so it’s good to take a critical eye on your belongings and decide what is worth keeping. Selling or donating a few pieces you don’t expect to need in the future could save you time, space, and money.

Decide Where to Store

Next, you’ll need to think through where your furniture will be stored. If you have a spare room or other easily accessible storage space in your home, this is often the easiest option. However, if you can’t or don’t want to keep your furniture in your home, you’ll want to consider a storage or shipping container.

Shipping containers are great options due to their durability, portability, and cost-effectiveness. They can also be modified for your needs.

Make Sure Everything is Clean

When it comes to storage, it’s a general rule that everything that goes inside your container should be thoroughly cleaned ahead of time. Ensuring cleanliness goes a long way toward preventing bad odors, mold and mildew growth, dust, and pests.

For wooden or plastic furniture, you can use mild soap with water to wipe down surfaces. Fabric can be cleaned with upholstery cleaner, and metal with a polishing cloth and cleaner. Make sure all of your items are completely dry before placing them in storage.

Protect Surfaces

Furniture items can be easily scratched during transport and storage, so you’ll want to cover and protect fragile surfaces and finishes. Use breathable fabric like a sheet or moving blanket to ensure surfaces are fully protected. Take additional precautions for breakable glass and mirrors, covering them in cardboard or packing paper before wrapping them in bubble wrap and blankets.

Disassemble Large Items

Before transporting your furniture, you’ll want to ensure your items can be moved and transported as easily as possible. Large items such as tables, bookshelves, and other furniture can be disassembled where possible to reduce the risk of breaking and make everything easier to move and pack. Keep all pieces together, with screws and other small hardware in a plastic bag attached to the item.

Use Space Efficiently

Once it’s time to place your items into your storage container, take the time to think through your layout strategically. Protect your furniture against potential water damage by placing a plastic tarp or lining along the floor, or raise your items above the floor using wooden pallets or cinder blocks. Start by putting in the largest items first, then move to smaller things as you go, stacking items where possible to maximize space.

Shipping Containers in Southern Utah

If you’re looking for a safe, durable, and affordable location to store furniture or any other belongings, AAA Mobile Storage can help. We provide rental, sales, transport, and modifications services for shipping containers throughout the state of Utah, and can help you find the right shipping container option to perfectly fit your needs and budget.

Reach out to us online for more information.