How to Safely Store Wood Furniture in a Storage Unit

Wood furniture is a beautiful addition to any home. But in order to keep it in good shape, wood furniture requires special handling and storage. And like any furniture, your wood pieces will take up space in your home that you can't always afford to give them. That's where storage units come in. Whether you're downsizing, moving, or just need more space, by following these guidelines, your wood furniture will stay in excellent condition in storage.

1. Clean and Prepare Your Furniture

It is essential to give wood furniture a thorough cleaning before storing it. Over time, dirt and dust can lead to scratches and other damage. Your best chance of stopping them is making sure that your furniture is as clean as possible before it even enters the unit.

• Dust and Wipe Down: Dust with a gentle cloth. If your furniture requires deeper cleaning, use a mild soap and water mixture. After cleaning, make sure the wood is dried right away and avoid soaking it.
• Condition and Polish: To keep the wood hydrated and protected long-term, use a wood polish or conditioner. This will also add a protective layer, helping to prevent drying and cracking.

2. Disassemble When Possible

You can save space in your storage unit and help avoid damage by disassembling your furniture before storing it.

• Remove Legs and Shelves: Take off legs, shelves, and other removable elements when you're storing wood furniture. Make a note of what goes where for easy reassembly. Store all small parts and screws in bags with labels.
• Wrap Every Component Individually: To protect every component, wrap it in bubble wrap or moving blankets. Packing tape can be used to secure the covering, but it should never be applied directly to the wood.

3. Use Appropriate Packing Supplies

When it comes to protecting your wood furniture in storage, using the appropriate packing supplies can make a huge difference.

• Furniture Covers: When you store wood furniture, invest in moving blankets or furniture covers to protect against dust and scratches. Avoid using plastic coverings, since they can retain moisture and produce mold or mildew over time.
• Bubble Wrap and Cardboard: For added protection, especially for fragile or decorative pieces, use bubble wrap and arrange cardboard between pieces to prevent them from rubbing against each other.

4. Choose the Right Storage Unit

The sort of storage unit you choose has a critical role in protecting your belongings. Choose carefully when you're deciding how to store your wood furniture.

• Climate Controlled Storage Units: Wood is susceptible to variations in humidity and temperature. Climate controlled storage units keep the temperature steady, which lowers the possibility of warping, breaking, or the growth of mold.
• Dry and Clean: Make sure there are no leaks or moisture issues with the storage unit. Raised pallets can help keep your furniture off the ground and away from the damp.

5. Position Your Furniture Carefully

To avoid damage, make sure that you're careful and deliberate when storing your wood furniture in the unit.

• Rise and Hide: To keep furniture off the ground, place it on pallets or planks. To keep dust off of goods, cover them with sheets or furniture blankets.
• Refrain from Stacking: Try not to arrange furniture in a stack. If stacking is necessary, use protective padding in between pieces and arrange heavy objects on the bottom and lighter ones on top.
• Make Room for Air Circulation: Position furniture so that air can circulate around each item. This makes it easier to access your furniture in case you need to recover it, and helps avoid moisture buildup.

6. Regular Check-Ups

Visiting your storage unit frequently to check on your furniture helps you keep an eye on your things, making sure your furniture stays in good condition if you want to store it for a long time.

• Go See the Unit: Visit your storage facility from time to time to check on the wood furniture you've stored. Check for indications of bugs, mold, or moisture.
• Reapply Polish: To keep the wood hydrated, reapply wood polish or conditioner if you see that it is drying out.