Self-storage is an excellent solution for a lot of different things. However, while it is true that some people may just need to rent a unit for a short period of time, others rent a storage unit for long-term use. It could be used as secondary storage for home items, those things that only come out a few times each year, or it may be used to store home contents while you go travelling or live abroad for a period of time. It means you have peace of mind knowing that your belongings are safe and will be in the same condition when you return home. That being said, if you are planning to use storage for the long term, there are several things to keep in mind. If you are looking for self-storage then please see here.
Give Everything A Good Clean
Anything that is about to go into long-term storage should be cleaned thoroughly and dried properly. This will stop any mould from growing, either as a result of residual dampness in the air of from other particles in the air. Clothes are one of the main culprits for this – often they are put away dirty or when they are still slightly damp (resulting in mildew and a nasty smell). Kitchen items are another culprit as they are often stored away with grease or dirt or not completely dry, this again can result in mould which is not only going to cause issues with the unit but could also pose a health hazard to others in the area. The lesson is a simple one; before anything gets stored away it needs to be thoroughly cleaned and dried.
Pack Things Properly
To ensure that your items are secure when you are away, packing them correctly is crucial. You don’t want to come home to caved in boxes or clothes that have been eaten by moths. Plastic is best avoided as it can induce moisture build-up meaning you could come home to a bag that is full of mildew. As an alternative, try to find strong boxes that can easily be stacked without losing the internal integrity of each. Ensure that each box is packed securely to prevent any possible damage.
There are some items that will need a little extra TLC:
Items that are delicate: These will need to be wrapped in bubble wrap or packing paper and placed in a box that has plenty of filler materials to reduce the risk of damage. Make sure you place these boxes at the top of the stack and not at the bottom.
Clothing: If you have a lot of clothes to store it is a good idea to invest in a specific clothing box or wardrobe box. This means that you can hang your clothes in garment bags instead of just squeezing them all into a box or bag. When clothes are stored in bin bags, moisture can easily build up and the clothes can become damp or even need to be thrown out.
Make Sure The Floor Is Covered
Storing items for a long period of time requires you to give attention to every inch of the environment – the floor is included in this. Usually, self-storage units have concrete flooring, this is not only cold but will also not be able to absorb a spillage or the condensation that gathers in such units. To protect your items, we recommend that you cover the floor with a canvas tarp. Shelving is also an option so that your items are stored off the floor, although you will need sufficient space for this. This means that plenty of airflow can get around the unit and your items, as well as ensuring that everything is kept off a damp floor.