Furniture Storage Tips

Furniture storage is much less frustrating when you understand how to do it right. Learn how to save time, secure your furniture and avoid unpleasant surprises in the future with these simple furniture storage tips:

1. Avoid plastic. Many people make the mistake of using plastic to cover furniture when placing it into storage. Unfortunately, despite the inexpensive nature of plastic it can often lead to big costs later. Plastic doesn't allow furniture to "breathe" and is more likely to result in unpleasant odors, build-up of condensation or other undesirable problems. Use soft fabrics instead of plastic; old sheets and blankets provide protection against dust, scratches and other potential problems while still allowing proper ventilation.
2. Space. When storing furniture always be careful to leave enough space between items to allow easy access and airflow. While it might be tempting to try to use every available inch of space, it usually only leads to frustration in the future. Worse, when the time comes to remove the furniture, the risk of damage increases since furniture isn't easily accessible.
3. Lift. Whenever possible, avoid placing items directly on the floor. Although most storage units remain secure, accidents sometimes take place. Flooding, spills or even inadvertent drips can pool on the floor and ruin fabrics, wood or other furniture. One simple solution is to place large or sensitive items on pallets so they are not in direct contact with the floor. Likewise, avoid placing heavy objects on top of other furniture; prolonged pressure from a heavy object can cause permanent marks or indentations in furniture over time.
4. Climate Control. Seriously consider using a climate-controlled unit for furniture storage, not only does it help protect against temperature extremes but reduces the risk of that unpleasant "musty" odor.
5. Insurance. Verify your homeowners or renters insurance policy covers the furniture and other items to be placed in storage; don't automatically assume you have coverage. The fact is most policies provide only limited - if any - coverage for furniture in storage. If your policy doesn't provide adequate coverage, it's often available through a special policy at the storage facility itself. It's well worth the additional expense to have the peace of mind of knowing your valuables are protected in the event of a loss.