Shreveport is a city cherished for its lively vibe and scenic beauty by the Red River. Out here, many residents find themselves needing to store furniture at different stages of their lives. And with Shreveport experiencing extreme variation in its seasonal humidity, with highs of over 90%, it makes sense that residents would need to be extremely cautious about their storage choices.
Whether you’re moving to a new home, cleaning up your current space, or adapting to lifestyle changes, ensuring your furniture is safely packed and stored is key. For anyone gearing up for this task, we have compiled a list of some simple yet effective tips to make sure that your packing goes smoothly and efficiently.
1 – Dismantling Furniture
When you’re preparing your furniture for storage, it’s often a good idea to take it apart. This would include things like beds, couches, and dinner tables. Dismantling these furniture items makes them easier to pack, as well as reduces the amount of space they take up. But don’t lose track of the little pieces that come off. Things like screws and bolts are vital for putting the furniture back together later on.
To keep these small parts organized and easy to find, put them in clearly marked zip-lock bags. Then, attach the bags to the main part of the furniture with some tape. This way, you’ll know exactly where they are when you need them.
It’s important that you choose the right storage space for your precious items. Shreveport has summers that are hot and oppressive, while the winters are short, cold, and wet.
This varying climate can damage your furniture. So, when you’re looking at Shreveport storage units, ensure that they have climate-control features. With climate control, your furniture will stay safe, no matter the weather outside.
2 – Cleaning Before Storing
When preparing your furniture for storage, a fundamental step is to clean each item properly. Overlooking this step can cost you in the long run. Why? Well, dust and grime, if left untreated, can lead to damage to certain items like artwork.
You wouldn’t want to pull out your favorite wooden chair from storage years later and find unexpected stains on it. Not cleaning can also result in a breeding ground for mold, especially on wooden furniture. This could damage your furniture beyond repair.
And if you have metal items, they’re not safe either. Without a good wipe-down, metal surfaces can develop rust. Cleaning is a small investment of time that ensures your furniture remains in its original condition while in storage.
3 – Using the Right Packing Materials
Good packing materials are essential when storing items. Quality packing materials shield your belongings from potential harm. When it comes to packing materials, the first thing we all think of is bubble wrap. They provide cushioning and protect items from damage.
Plastic sheeting is also effective, especially for items that might be sensitive to moisture. Furniture covers, made of durable fabric, are designed to protect large pieces from dust and other potential contaminants.
In order to ensure your items remain in pristine condition during storage, it’s crucial to select the right materials. Investing a bit more in high-quality packing supplies can save you from potential losses or damages in the future.
4 – Elevating Furniture from the Floor
Elevating your furniture from the floor is a smart move when storing it for a long time. The ground can sometimes become damp or attract pests that could harm your items.
Moisture rising from the floor can damage wood, causing it to warp or rot. Pests, such as termites or mice, can also be harmful to furniture, especially wooden or upholstered pieces. By keeping furniture above floor level using items like pallets, cinder blocks, or plastic bins, you provide an added layer of protection.
5 – Leave Some Space
When you’re storing items, make sure not to pack them too tightly. A crowded storage unit can lead to unforeseen damages. It’s wise to keep gaps or walkways within your unit. These spaces promote good air circulation and help prevent any mold from setting in.
More importantly, having clear paths allows you to move around without the risk of knocking something over and harming your possessions. So, always think ahead and give your items a little breathing room. This not only ensures their safety but also makes accessing them a lot more convenient in the future.
6 – Label Everything Clearly
When you store furniture, especially those pieces you’ve taken apart, it’s essential to know where everything is. Over time, we often forget where we placed certain items or which parts belong to which piece of furniture. To avoid confusion later on, always use clear and large labels on every item.
Write down what the item is and any other important details about its contents. This simple act will save you a lot of time and frustration when you need to find something or put the furniture back together.
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7 – Protect Glass and Mirrors
Taking special care of glass and mirror items during storage is essential due to their delicate nature. It’s wise to encase these items in bubble wrap to provide a cushioned layer of protection.
Ensure you secure the wrapping firmly using tape. When placing them in storage, always position these items in an upright stance—laying them flat increases the chances of them getting cracked or shattered. Regularly checking their condition and orientation can also prevent any unforeseen damages.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, ensuring the longevity and quality of your furniture during long-term storage requires meticulous attention to detail. By following these guidelines, from dismantling and cleaning to selecting the right packing materials, you can be confident your items will remain in optimal condition. Always prioritize your furniture’s care, and it will serve you well for years to come.
