Unless you are a minimalist, every now and then you will have more items than your living space can accommodate. The first choice for excess items is typically “in-residence” such as:

  • spare room
  • attic
  • basement
  • garage
  • shed

Spare rooms usually serve better as living space than storage. Attics typically do not serve as living space; they might lack insulation or load-bearing floorboards. Additionally, moving heavy items up and down stairs is less than optimal. Climate control or flooding are often challenges for basements.

Oil, fumes, and frequent openings and closings impact temperatures and smells in garages. Sheds sometime house pests or mold that can proliferate unnoticed for extended periods.

When space constraints exceed personal options, people turn to:

In the past, most home sellers had a new home purchased simultaneously. We are increasingly coming across clients who sell their home but elect to rent temporarily to weigh their options. When moving from a bigger space to a smaller space, they choose to store excess items for a period.

Among the most stored items, furniture is also one of the most sensitive. To protect furniture in storage, whether in or outside your home, review the following suggested preparations and consider a professional packing service in Westchester to assist.

Furniture storage

Wood and upholstery are often the main materials used for many furniture pieces. Insects, water, or temperature changes can cause wood to warp, rot, dull, or become moldy. Upholstered cloth or leather can tear, stain, or become malodorous.

To safeguard against these issues, avoid actions that create climate swings, gather water, or attract vermin. Temperature swings can be a concern in an attic, basement, garage, or a shed. Poor airflow coupled with unexpected water in dark areas are preconditions for condensation, mold, or insect infestations.

To mitigate these conditions:

  • lay down plastic sheeting to prevent moisture from seeping up from the floor
  • cover your furniture with old blankets, drop cloths or sheets to protect from dust or scratches
  • avoid using bubble wrap or plastic that might trap moisture or promote condensation
  • place furniture on wood blocks or pallets to promote airflow and guard against flooding water
  • leave space in-between stored pieces and aisles for airflow and easier navigation
  • do not place objects, boxes, or other items on top of the pieces to safeguard against warping

Before storage, clean, polish, label, take inventory and photograph your furniture. Proof of items being intact prior to storage will expedite insurance claims.

Use warm water and soap for a simple cleaning. Use a commercial wax to address blemishes or to provide a protective seal to prevent cracking. Always let your furniture dry fully before storage to avoid trapping moisture. Never leave any perishable remnants as the rot can create permeating odor or attract unwanted insects.

Bubble wrap mirrors or glass items, placing them in a labeled box. Choose a space that will work best for your storage needs. Pack furniture methodically by planning around the largest pieces first.

Work in the smaller pieces but make sure that any stored item can be easily accessed. Avoid stacking items altogether, if possible. With any stacking, only place light items on heavier ones.

Out of home storage

Renting storage space outside your home incurs additional costs. To mitigate spatial needs, measure and prioritize items directed towards storage space. Sell, donate, discard, or downsize possessions, if possible. Beware that flammable or perishable items may be hazardous and therefore prohibited.

Large or heavy furniture is harder to move. Consider disassembling items to reduce size or weight. Unwieldy parts are harder to move or store. Remove drawers, legs, or cushions when possible. Tape connecting pieces like bolts into plastic bags to the associated piece of furniture.

A temperature-controlled storage facility might cost more. However, preventing humidity and temperature swings should mitigate warping or mold. Cold or humidity can cause electronics to contract or damage circuit boards.

Suffering damage to stored items is both costly and frustrating. However, with planning, you can avoid many adverse conditions. You may prefer the peace of mind of not having to anticipate every scenario. For valuable items, safeguard any downside by opting for professional storage that also provides insurance coverage and professional packing services.

Remember, to move the right way, call McAvey. Want to find out more about our storage options? Dial (914) 747-1533 to begin the conversation.