No matter why you need to put some or all of your belongings in self-storage, such as because of moving or traveling, the right preparation is essential. Strategic packing protects your treasured items, ensuring they remain in perfect condition until you need them again. To help you with your packing efforts, review the following tips.

How to Prepare Belongings for Self-Storage

1. Clean Everything First

Laundering seasonal clothes, dusting wooden furniture and assorted knick-knacks, and vacuuming upholstered furniture and mattresses are among the cleaning tasks that prepare your items for self-storage. 

Storing dirty items risks damage, such as dirt scratches on wood and soiled areas on clothing. If anything features food and beverage stains, they can attract vermin. Thoroughly cleaning your belongings prior to storage avoids these issues. 

2. Disassemble What You Can

Anything that can be taken apart, such as tables and appliances, should be, to create more packing space and room in the unit. Pack detachable items together to avoid confusion later on, which includes placing all hardware in baggies and labeling them. Furniture that cannot be disassembled should be covered with moving or furniture blankets for protection in transit and in the unit. 

3. Use Sealable Plastic Bins Over Boxes

Cardboard boxes are susceptible to moisture and vermin, while hard plastic bins with sealable lids offer optimal protection. Use these storage containers as much as possible to keep your belongings safe and consider selecting clear bins to easily see what they contain. Same-size, sealable plastic bins are recommended even if you are using climate-controlled storage since they are easy to stack in the unit. 

4. Work With Pallets 

While indoor storage units are less likely to flood, the possibility still exists. Stacking bins and furniture on pallets provides extra protection in the event of severe rain or a plumbing leak. 

Your belongings also enjoy more protection from vermin and provide you with additional peace of mind. Arrange the pallets to create at least one aisle in the self-storage unit, as this allows you to access the back of the space whenever you want.

Whether you need standard or climate-controlled storage services, count on Exit 42 Self Storage in Troutman, NC. Offering a wide range of self-storage solutions, this facility is also open 24/7 and accessible via access codes only. Call (704) 528-0300 today to discuss your needs or learn more about storage services online.