There can be no doubt that the global pandemic has affected many aspects of our lives.
Across the board, people who may never, or only rarely used, commercial storage are now looking to access units while they adapt to our rapidly changing environment.
So how do you achieve a successful storage experience? Well, the good news is, it’s pretty easy if you follow these simple steps.
Wrapping, wrapping, wrapping. It can’t be said enough, but it’s what will protect your precious belongings. Individually wrap as many items as possible. Using materials like bubble-wrap, paper, and dust-sheets is worth the time and investment. Be ‘scratch-aware’ between your possessions, the ground, and the walls. Well-covered items minimise scratch-risk. Where appropriate, use soft furnishings like pillows and blankets to cushion and support delicate items like mirrors, glass, and antique furniture. Protect antiques, valuables, and delicates individually. Make sure they are well protected before packing, with removable parts wrapped separately in special boxes.
You should ‘box clever’ and not over-fill. You may be tempted, but it’s a false economy. It makes boxes much harder to move, increasing pressure on delicates. Try to use uniform-sized boxes where possible as it maximises space usage and ensures safe stacking. Have a boxing strategy and remember to store delicates together in specially marked boxes, with minimal weight upon them.
For furniture, you should empty each item, securing its components. Remember some items cannot be moved once the excessive weight is inside. Deconstruct and bundle any bulky furniture (like beds) if you can. This protects them while making them easier to move and saving space. But remember! Keep essential screws and ties in a labeled bag somewhere easy to retrieve. You will also want to secure any furniture doors and drawers that may swing open, with string or low-tac tape. These can cause injury and damage. Finally, cover your furniture in protective sheets to prevent damage.
Oh, and keep fridge doors open to prevent mildew. That’s important.
Get a storage strategy! Always use the height and width of your storage unit, but don’t put heavy items at the top of your packing. Keep them low for stability and don’t over-stack. Large, tall items should be laid lengthways on their side to prevent toppling. When filling storage units, use the valuable spaces found inside larger items, like wardrobes.
Clothes and fabrics need some special care and should always be clean, dry, well-packed, and sealed. This prevents the risk of mould, mildew, or infestation. Indeed, everything you store should be clean and dry. Consider using mothballs to give added protection.
Finally, you should pay attention to some safety issues that will protect your possessions. Be sure to empty any liquids from machines, ornaments, or containers that could leak, stain or corrode. This includes oils, paints, grease, and chemicals. Remove flammables and combustibles like petrol, fireworks, and batteries. Also, avoid leaving electronics or motors in an active state and remove all power sources. Lastly, you should not store perishables or food-stuffs as these attract pests.
Follow the above and you’re well on your way to a positive and safe storage experience. Good luck!