Renting storage units seems like a pretty open and shut job: you open the door to your self-storage unit, you shove your stuff in, you shut the door. But public storage isn’t quite that simple. Here are a few tips you should follow to ensure your stuff remains safe and in good condition:
- Store upholstered furniture, like sofas (but not sleep sofas), on end if possible, to maximize your space. Cover with cotton sheets for dust protection.
- Cover mattresses and box springs, with cotton sheets, and stand securely on their edge. Remember, cardboard absorbs moisture and plastic traps condensation, both of which can promote mold and mildew.
- Treat any garden tools and other metal items, like bicycles, with a rust inhibitor, such as machine oil, before storing them. Clean before storing them.
- Drain gas and oil from lawn mowers, trimmers, weed blowers, and other items with engines.
- Use the tops of dressers as a base for stacking boxes. You can place a variety of items inside the dresser drawers, such as linens, small boxes or delicate items.
- Wrap table and chair legs to avoid scratching.
