Self Storage Tips

Here are some self-storage suggestions on how to pack and store specific items:

Small Appliances Storage Tips
Pack in factory boxes whenever possible and cushion with wadded, not shredded, newspaper. (Shredded paper can get into the machines and cause damage.)

Large Appliances Storage Tips
Since you'll be using your refrigerator, freezer, stove, washing machine, dryer, dishwasher, and air conditioner up until the last day, they should be packed last and loaded first on moving day. Consult your user's manual, Then, follow these simple instructions: Empty and defrost your refrigerator and freezer, and drain the water from your washing machine. Wipe and dry the interiors. Remove all fittings and accessories and pack in plastic bags. Fill interiors with linens, cloths and stuffed toys. Stuff towels between the washing machine sides and tub to keep the tub from rotating. Tape or tie down al moveable parts and doors. Finally, cover appliances with pads and tie with rope. Remember to more large appliances in an upright position. Watch out for external coils on the back of major appliances. Never put the hand truck strap on top of coils.

Self Storage For Bed
Disassemble beds and mark pieces so they're easy to put back together. Tie bed rails together with rope or tape. Protect mattresses by leaving sheets on or wrap them in mattress covers and pack your sheets.

Self Storage For Packing Books
Pack them flat in small cartons that weigh no more than 30#'s. Alternate bindings, and cushion with wadded newspaper.

Self Storage Chairs
Wrap arms and legs with newspaper or bubble warp. Leave slipcovers on and cover with furniture pads.

Self Storage Clothing
Hang cloths in wardrobe boxes. Leave small garments in bureau drawers.

Self Storage Collectibles
Wrap fragile items like figurines and ceramics with bubble wrap and tape securely.

Self Storage For Curtains
If you have draperies dry cleaned, leave them in the wrapping and hang them in a wardrobe box. Put curtain rod hardware in plastic bags and tape them securely to rod-then you'll have the right pieces when you need them.

Self Storage For Dishes
Never stack dishes flat. Wrap each piece in bubble wrap. (If you use newspaper, put each piece in a plastic bag first to save dishwashing time later.) Pack dishes, saucers and platters on their edge. Nestle cups and bowls. Cushion with dishtowels, pot holders, or paper.

Self Storage For Glass Ware and China
Wrap separately in bubble wrap and use newspaper for cushioning.

Self Storage For Kitchenware
Pots, pans, colanders, etc. can be nestled and cushioned with newspaper between each piece. Set aside the most essential cookware for the first few days in your new home. Label this box as the fist to be opened one you arrive.

Self Storage For Lamps
Pack shades in individual boxes with bubble wrap, (Newspaper can stain them.) Wrap bases in bubble wrap and pack then in boxes or in freezers and washing machines.

Self Storage For Mirrors and Artwork
Small mirrors can be wrapped in newspaper and packed in boxes. But large mirrors and painting should be wrapped in newspaper and covered with cardboard.

Self Storage For Outdoor furniture
Disassemble any pieces that are screwed or bolted together. Place hardware in plastic bags and tape to the piece; then tie pieces together.

Self Storage For Plants
Try to sell them at your garage sale, or give them away as gifts. If you move them, put them in plastic bags with air holes and then in boxes. Water them before you leave.

Self Storage For Tables
If you can, remove legs and extra leaves. Pad them and tie them together. Tape hardware (in plastic bags) to the underside of the table tops.

Self Storage For Tools and gardening equipment
Pack hoses and small tools in boxes. Tie rakes, shovels and long-handled tools together.