10 Tips To Store Your Furniture Properly for Longevity

We can all agree that it’s important to store furniture correctly to keep it in good condition for as long as possible. Whether you’re moving house, doing some DIY, or just want to free up some space, storing your furniture right can save you a lot of hassle. We’ve put together 10 key tips to help you store your furniture properly so it lasts longer.
 

Clean Everything Thoroughly

 
Before storing any piece of furniture, you have to make sure it’s clean! Dust, dirt, and grime can cause damage over time, especially if they’re left on surfaces for an extended period. Here’s how to clean different types of furniture:
 

Wooden Furniture

 
Wipe down your furniture with a damp cloth and a mild detergent. Avoid soaking the wood as excessive moisture can cause warping. Once cleaned, consider applying a wood polish to protect the finish.
 

Upholstered Furniture

 
Vacuum the fabric to remove dust and dirt. For any stains, use a fabric cleaner suitable for the material. Make sure that the furniture is completely dry before you store it to prevent mould and mildew.
 

Leather Furniture

 
Wipe down with a damp cloth and use a leather conditioner to keep the leather supple and prevent cracking.
 

Disassemble When Possible

 
Disassembling furniture not only makes it easier to move but also reduces the risk of damage. Here’s what you need to consider:
 

Beds

 
Remove the mattress and disassemble the frame. Keep all screws, bolts, and small parts in a labelled bag.
 

Tables and Chairs

 
Remove legs if possible and wrap them separately.
 

Shelving Units

 
Take apart large units and store shelves separately.

 

Wrap and Protect

 
Properly wrapping and protecting your furniture is essential to prevent scratches, dents, and other damage. Use the following materials:
 

Furniture Covers

 
Use furniture covers or old sheets to protect against dust and light exposure.
 

Bubble Wrap

 
For delicate items and pieces with glass components, bubble wrap offers excellent protection.
 

Plastic Wrap

 
Avoid using plastic wrap directly on furniture as it can trap moisture. However, it’s useful for securing drawers and doors to prevent them from opening.
 
NB: Remember to avoid using thick plastic covers on leather furniture as it can cause condensation and damage to the leather.
 

Choose the Right Storage Environment

 
The environment where you store your furniture plays a significant role in its preservation. Here’s what to look for:
 

Content Protection

 
Opting for a self storage facility that offers content protection will safeguard your furniture from potential water damage, rodents and pests, as well as fire and smoke. This helps to maintain its longevity.
 

Dry and Clean Space

 
Make sure the storage space is dry and clean. Damp conditions can lead to mould and mildew, which are harmful to all types of furniture.
 
NB: If you’re storing items in a garage or shed, consider using a dehumidifier to control moisture levels.
 

Elevate Off the Ground

 
Keeping your furniture off the ground can protect it from potential flooding and dampness. Use pallets, bricks, or shelving to elevate your furniture. This simple step can prevent significant damage in case of unexpected water issues.
 

Position Items Correctly

 
How you position your furniture in storage can impact its condition. Here are some tips:
 

Heavier Items

 
on the Bottom Place heavier items like sofas and dressers on the bottom. This guarantees stability and prevents lighter items from being crushed.
 

Leave Space for Airflow

 
Avoid pushing furniture directly against walls. Leaving a small gap allows for better airflow, which helps prevent mould and mildew.
 

Avoid Stacking

 
Where possible, avoid stacking furniture pieces. If you must stack, make sure that heavier items are on the bottom and use padding between items to avoid scratches and dents.
 

Regularly Check on Your Furniture

 
Even when stored correctly, it’s important to periodically check on your furniture. Look for signs of damage, mould, or pest infestation. Regular checks can help you address issues early before they become major problems.
 

Use Furniture Storage Tips for Specific Items

 
Different types of furniture may require special care:
 

Wooden Furniture

 
Apply a layer of wax or polish to wooden furniture before storing it to protect the finish.
 

Upholstered Furniture

 
Store in a vertical position if possible to save space and prevent damage to the cushions.
 

Mattresses

 
Store mattresses flat to avoid sagging. Use a mattress cover to protect against dust and pests.
 

Label and Organise

 
Labelling and organising your storage space can save you time and hassle when you need to retrieve items. Use clear labels on wrapped furniture and keep an inventory list. This way, you’ll know exactly where everything is and can avoid unnecessary unpacking and repacking
 

Consider Professional Help

 
If you have valuable or antique furniture, consider getting professional help. Professional movers and storage services have the expertise and equipment to handle delicate items safely. Investing in professional help can guarantee your valuable pieces are stored correctly and remain in excellent condition.
 

How Louth Self Storage Can Help You Preserve Your Furniture

 
Storing your furniture properly is key to keeping it in good condition for a long time. By following these tips, you can avoid damage, save space, and make it easier to find your items when you need them.
 
For the best storage options, consider using Louth Self Storage. Our secure units are perfect for keeping your furniture in top shape. With our professional service and affordable prices, you can store your items without worry.
 
Contact us today to find out how we can help you protect your valuable furniture.