Self Storage Supplies and Equipment



Moving isn’t always easy but self-storage can certainly make it less complicated and ensure that your belongings are kept safe no matter where your move might happen to take you. Self-storage is frequently used on a temporary basis; however, it can certainly be used on a more long-term basis as a solution when you simply do not have space for your belongings.

One of the first things you need to do when renting a self-storage space is determine which type of space that you need. Both climate control and regular storage facilities are available. Keep in mind that regular storage space is frequently cheaper than climate control space, but certain types of items require climate control in order to be ruined during long term storage. Such items include books and paper as well as artwork, fine furniture, furs or any other type of item that should not be exposed for very cold or hot temperatures. While climate control storage facilities are more expensive, it is certainly far cheaper than finding out later that you need to replace items that were lost due to exposure to the elements.

In the interest of protecting your belongings, you should also consider the type of packing accessories that you will need in order to properly store your belongings and prevent damage. Fragile items that could be easily broken should be packed carefully in bubble wrap and taped before packing inside boxes.

Depending on the exact nature of the items that you’re storing, you may also need to run a dehumidifier in your storage facility. This is particularly true if you are storing items in a location that endures a large amount of humidity. Remember that humidity can quickly and easily cause damage and completely ruin items such as paper. A dehumidifier can prevent this from happening.

If the floor of the self-storage unit you are renting is concrete, which most are, it’s also a good idea to lay down some drop cloths to prevent moisture from seeping up from the concrete and damaging your items.

Furniture can be protected from all kinds of damage of with good quality, heavy weight furniture covers. If you are planning to store fine furniture for longer than a few days, it’s a good idea to drape them with furniture covers to provide adequate protection. Fabric covered furniture should be placed on plastic drop cloths to prevent moisture absorption that might damage the furniture. If you cannot find furniture covers, remember that sheets will work well in a pinch. Whenever possible, be sure to dissemble furniture in order to maximize your storage space.

If you’re planning to store appliances, you may also need some rope to tie the doors of the appliances closed. Many people make the common mistake of taping appliance doors shut when they store their appliances in self-storage units; however, taping appliance doors shut can cause damage to the paint. It’s far better to tie the doors shut to prevent damage. When storing appliances, it’s also important to make sure that you take the time to dry them out thoroughly before placing them in a self-storage unit. Failure to do so can cause your items to rust. If you’re placing a stove or oven in self-store you should clean it thoroughly first. Running a dehumidifier and drying appliances can help retard rust to a large degree, but applying a fine sheen of machine oil will also go a long way toward protecting your items from rust as well. The same technique will also prevent other types of metal items, such as metal desks and tools from rusting.

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