Moving is always a challenge, but to many of us, it is of utmost importance that it all arrives to the new facility in great condition… even if it has to go through several months of storage first. Here are some tips for keeping your belongings clean and well preserved.
Storing Food
Problems usually only arise when people think that their perishable food items will only be stored for a week or so and are then forgotten. Usually, this happens right before the move when you have to defrost the refrigerator and must find a place to put their food quickly. While it may seem like a good idea not to waste, it would be better to throw it out than risk forgetting it in storage and ruining all your other items.
However, a list of food that can be stored in storage includes:
- Canned Goods;
- Dry Pasta;
- Meals that are ready to eat.
The only thing you need to make sure is that they are well packed and inaccessible to rodents. If Rodents get into your storage it will ultimately destroy anything else you have.
One thing you need to be careful with is making sure that any ready to eat meals are not frozen. Any frozen products will eventually turn to water which will eventually lead to mold and mildew. Which leads us to the next point
Avoid Storing Liquids
Liquids should be avoided at all costs as it will ruin your other items. However, should you absolutely have to store liquids, make sure that you but some sort of plastic wrap over the top and then screw to cap back on so as to have a double seal. You should then put all of the liquids in a secure plastic bin where they will not be able to touch any other items. A final note is that this also includes draining any hoses or washing devices prior to storage. We recommend leaving them out in the sun to dry even after being drained.
Pallets are Your Friends
Many storage spaces have concrete floors and can usually become damp and a breeding ground for mold and mildew. Make sure that you put all of your boxes on pallets to avoid the dampness that will inevitably seep into your space.
Consider Climate Control
The best way to keep your items clean and undamaged is to request a climate controlled space. This will help preserve any items from photographs to wooden furniture (wood expands and contracts in the weather) and will also prevent any liquids you may have decided to store from freezing and exploding.
Keep Your Mattresses Clean and Well Preserved
The best way to store any mattresses is by placing them in covers or other protection that is usually sold by moving companies. This will prevent them from collecting dust as well as being chewed by any stray rodent that may find its way into your storage.
Draperies, Clothing and Bedding
The best way to keep these items clean and in good condition is by placing them in vacuum sealed bags. These are designed to keep air out, so moisture cannot collect. Make sure that you purchase ones that will also be difficult for rodents to chew through.
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Packing Tape is Worth it
Packing tape is also different from your regular kinds of tape in that it helps seal out any moisture. Use this as your go-to packing material when you begin preparing those boxes for storage.
Double Check Any Metal
If you have any metal items, make sure they are wiped down prior to being stored. If any moisture does collect in your storage space, make sure that you rewipe and of the metal to avoid rust. According to Organyzedu.com, pieces of sensitive gear that often succumb to moisture need proper insulation regardless if you have the best brand at hand.
Avoid Storing Scented Items
You may think that storing scented items would help to make for a more pleasant smell, but the reality is quite the opposite. If you must store scented items, make sure they are stored in an airtight compartment.
Office Equipment
It is important that you be very careful when packing office equipment. The best place to start is by simply asking your moving company if the items you want to be stored can be stored. We generally recommend against any electronics as they can get wet or damaged. We only recommend storing the furniture and anything paper in airtight bins.
If you follow these simple tips you should be able to preserve all your items to be as good as new. It is important to regularly make visits to storage and just dust everything off, but if you follow these tips, you are sure to have a clean and positive storage experience.
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