Best Practices for Long-Term Storage

When it comes to storing your cherished belongings for an extended period, what you need to do is to make sure that they’re in pristine condition- that’s essential! So, whether you’re just thinking of downsizing your home, travelling (or moving) abroad for a whole), or you’re just really needing some extra space in your home, then you need to make sure that everything is protected. 

 

So, what are the best practices you should know about though? Well, here’s everything you need to know! You deserve to have your belongings stay in good condition, and the team here at Box and Locks facilities on the Gold Coast will do just that! So, let’s go ahead and provide the perfect solutions for you!

Clean Everything Thoroughly

For starters, you’re going to want to give everything a good washing. But why is it so important to do this step? Well, dust, dirt, and grime can all cause damage over time, especially in a long-term storage environment. So, for clothes and fabrics, wash and dry them so they won’t mould or mildew either. As for furniture, appliances and other household items, it’s best to give them a good wipe down with some mild cleaning solution. 

 

What’s the Best Way to Pack?

So, you have to keep in mind that packing is more than just putting items into boxes. The way you pack is going to significantly impact the condition of your belongings over time. 

Use Quality Boxes

Ideally, you’ll need to invest in sturdy, high-quality boxes that can withstand long-term storage conditions. For the most part, you can expect that weak boxes may collapse or break, putting your items at risk.

Clear Labels

Clearly label each box with its contents to make future retrieval easier. Including a detailed inventory can also be beneficial.

Wrap Your Fragile Belongings

You’ll need to use bubble wrap, packing paper, or foam to wrap fragile items. But also make sure that they’re so secure to the point that they’re not moving in the box.

Dissemble Large Items

Some items can easily be disassembled, so be sure to do that, as it saves space. But of course, don’t force everything to disassemble, like IKEA furniture, as that can only cause it to break much quicker. 

Choose the Right Materials

It was mentioned just right above that you need to wrap up your fragile belongings with bubble wrap, but that shouldn’t be the only thing you should do. For example, padding your boxes with foam is a good idea; the same can be said for furniture covers, plastic bins (ideal for moisture protection), and even vacuum-sealed bags. There’s never any harm in taking extra steps! 

What Else Should You Do for Long-Term Storage?

You should never try to overpack your boxes; that’s going to end up with broken boxes and damaged items—way too much of a headache. But you should also leave some space to cushion your items. Lastly, just check your items periodically, even in the best storage conditions; you just want to ensure everything stays in excellent condition. 

 

So, by following everything, you can definitely feel rest assured that your belongings will be safe and well-preserved during their time in storage! Here at Box and Lock’s self-storage on the Gold Coast, we offer ideal conditions for keeping your items in tip-top shape. You deserve peace of mind and with us, you’ll get that!