Moving to a new city like Boise, Idaho can be an exciting adventure. But it often comes with the challenge of figuring out what to do with all your belongings. Whether you're downsizing, taking a temporary job assignment, or just need some extra space, proper storage is key.
But how do you ensure your precious items stay safe and sound while in storage? It's not just about tossing everything into boxes and hoping for the best.
There's an art to packing for storage that can make all the difference when it comes time to retrieve your items. This article provides effective tips on how to pack for storage. Read on to get enlightened.
Create An Inventory For Items You Want To Store
Before you even think about boxes or bubble wrap, take a step back and assess what you'll be storing. Creating an inventory might seem tedious, but it's a crucial first step. Why? It helps you keep track of what you have and where it's located. Plus, it's a lifesaver if you need to find something specific later on.
Start by going room by room, and listing items you plan to store. Don't forget to include details like brand names, serial numbers for electronics, and brief descriptions.
Take photos of valuable items for insurance purposes. This might take some time, but you'll thank yourself later when you're not rummaging through boxes trying to find that one specific item.
Find The Right Boxes And Packaging Materials
Now that you've got your inventory sorted, it's time to find boxes. Not all boxes are created equal, and using the right ones can make a world of difference. Have you ever tried to carry a flimsy box only to have the bottom give out? Yeah, avoid that nightmare.
Opt for sturdy, corrugated cardboard boxes in various sizes. Small boxes are great for heavy items like books, while larger ones work well for bulky but light items like pillows or comforters. Don't forget about specialty boxes for items like TVs, mirrors, or artwork.
Proper Packing Techniques For Different Items
Now, let's get into the nitty-gritty of packing specific types of items. Each category needs a little special attention to ensure it comes out of storage in the same condition it went in.
Clothing and Linens
Ever pulled out your favorite sweater only to find it stretched out of shape? Proper packing can prevent that. For clothing and linens, clean and dry everything thoroughly before storing. Moths and other pests are attracted to food particles and body oils left on fabric.
Use wardrobe boxes for hanging clothes. For folded items, consider vacuum-sealed bags to save space and protect against moisture. Cedar blocks or lavender sachets can help repel moths naturally.
Furniture
Furniture can be tricky to store, but with the right approach, you can keep it in great condition. Start by cleaning all surfaces thoroughly. For wooden furniture, consider applying a layer of furniture polish to help protect the finish.
Disassemble what you can, keeping all hardware in labeled plastic bags. Wrap legs and other protruding parts in bubble wrap or moving blankets. Cover the entire piece with plastic sheeting or furniture covers to protect against dust and scratches.
Mattresses
Your mattress deserves special attention when packing for storage. Start by thoroughly cleaning and airing it out to prevent mold growth. Invest in a quality mattress bag to shield it from dust, dirt, and moisture. For added protection, consider wrapping the bagged mattress in plastic sheeting.
When storing, always lay your mattress flat to maintain its shape and support. Avoid placing heavy items on top, as this can cause permanent indentations.
If possible, elevate the mattress slightly off the ground using pallets or a platform. This precaution helps protect against potential floor dampness.
Electronics
Electronics are sensitive to temperature changes and moisture, so extra care is needed here. First, back up all data and remove batteries from devices. Wrap each item in anti-static bubble wrap or packing paper.
If possible, store electronics in their original boxes. If not, use sturdy boxes with plenty of padding. Keep cords and accessories with their corresponding devices to avoid a tangled mess later.
Books and Documents
Books and important documents need protection from moisture and pests. Pack them in small boxes to prevent overly heavy lifting. Stand books on their edges rather than stacking them flat to prevent spine damage.
For important documents, consider using plastic file boxes or waterproof document cases. Acid-free tissue paper between pages can help prevent yellowing over time.
Kitchenware
Wrap each dish individually in packing paper or bubble wrap. For sets of plates, place a layer of padding between each one.
Use dish pack boxes, which have extra-thick walls for added protection. Fill any empty spaces with packing peanuts or crumpled paper to prevent shifting during transport.
Artwork and Fragile Items
For framed artwork, wrap each piece in acid-free tissue paper, then bubble wrap. Use corner protectors for added safety. Store artwork vertically rather than flat to prevent damage.
For sculptures or other 3D pieces, wrap carefully in bubble wrap and consider using custom crating for extremely valuable or fragile items.
Protect Your Items from Dust and Moisture
Ever opened a box after months in storage only to find your items covered in dust or, worse, mold? Yuck! Protecting your belongings from these elements is crucial for long-term storage.
Invest in plastic covers for furniture and mattresses. For smaller items, consider using plastic bins with tight-fitting lids instead of cardboard boxes. They're more resistant to moisture and pests. If you're using cardboard boxes, line them with plastic sheeting for an extra layer of protection.
Don't forget about silica gel packets! These little moisture absorbers can be a game-changer, especially in humid climates. Toss a few into boxes with electronics, leather goods, or anything else susceptible to moisture damage.
Do Not Overpack Boxes
It's tempting to stuff as much as possible into each box, but resist that urge! Overpacked boxes are more likely to break, and they're a pain to carry. Plus, items inside can get damaged by the pressure.
As a general rule, aim to keep boxes under 50 pounds. Can you lift the box comfortably? If not, it's too heavy. Remember, you (or someone else) will need to move these boxes again someday.
Label each box with its contents and which room it belongs in. This simple step will save you tons of headaches later. Consider using a color-coding system for even easier identification.
Use Nesting to Save Space
Ready for a space-saving hack? Enter nesting! This technique involves placing smaller items inside larger ones, like Russian nesting dolls. It's a great way to maximize space and keep items organized.
For example, store smaller pots inside larger ones. Fill empty drawers with smaller items before wrapping the furniture. Stuff shoes with socks or small accessories. Get creative! The more you can nest items together, the more space you'll save overall.
Takeaway
As you prepare for your move to Boise, remember that proper packing is the foundation of successful storage. By following these tips you'll ensure your belongings remain in excellent condition, no matter how long they're stored.
While mastering the art of packing is crucial, it's equally important to find the right home for your carefully packed possessions.
Selecting an appropriate storage service provider is the next vital step in your relocation journey. The ideal facility will not only keep your items safe and secure but also provide the convenience and accessibility you need during your transition to Boise.
