Homeowner Storage Tips

Appliances
Refrigerators or freezers should be dry and stored with the door partially open. Also, make sure that stoves and cooking equipment are cleaned before being stored.

Books and Documents
Packing books flat will protect their spine. Use packing materials to fill empty spaces in the boxes. Do not pack fragile items in the same box as books, and do no overload them.

Bedding, Clothing, Curtains, Drapes, and Linens
Clothing, curtains, and drapes should be stored hanged or folded and carefully stored in dresser drawers with bedding and linen. Before storing you should remove all food crumbs or stains. Avoid storing any items that could attract pests.

Dishes and Glassware
All glass should be wrapped individually: nest cups & bowls, stand plates, saucers and platters. Avoid placing heavy items on the boxes containing glassware.

Furniture
Place a pallet, cardboard mat, or plastic sheet on the floor and stand sofas and mattresses on end. Use dresser tops for stacking items and dresser drawers for linens or delicate items.

Lamps
Avoid using newspaper to wrap lamp shades or other items that may be damaged by ink stains.

Mirrors, Windows, and Screens
Do not store these items flat, they should be upright.

Determine the Packing Accessories You Need
Paper, bubble wrap, tape, permanent marker, rope, drop clothes, plastic sheeting, furniture covers, file containers, storage cartons or boxes, etc.

Fill Containers to Capacity
Containers that are not completely full or bulging may tip or collapse. You can protect your fragile items with packing materials and by placing them near the top of your storage area.

Pack the Storage Space Carefully
Leaving some air space around the perimeter of your space helps aid ventilation. To allow for easy access, leave a walkway to the back of your space. Use all of the space including the height, and place items that are used the most near the door.