When life transitions happen, and you find yourself amidst a move, renovation, or downsizing, one of the most pressing concerns is what to do with your furniture. Often, these treasured pieces of our homes and memories don’t quite fit into our immediate living space plans.
This is where self-storage facilities in Miami come into play. They provide a secure environment for furniture that you need to keep but don’t have room for at the moment. However, ‘secure’ and ‘just-stick-it-there ‘are not the best considerations when it comes to storing large, heavy, or sentimental items like your furniture.
Properly storing furniture involves a bit more preparation and care than one might initially think. Whether it’s a valuable antique, a family heirloom, or a modern piece of comfort, your furniture likely holds some worth—both sentimental and, in some cases, monetary.
Here’s how to ensure your beloved furniture items are as comfortable in storage as in your home.
Choosing the Right Storage Facility
Selecting the best storage facility for your furniture is crucial. Here’s what you need to look for:
Assess Security Measures
The first consideration when selecting a self-storage facility in Aventura is security. The facility should have 24/7 surveillance, individual unit alarms, and controlled access systems. Check if the area has a history of break-ins and if the facility has installed measures to prevent them.
Consider Climate Control
Climate-controlled units are essential if you want to protect your furniture from extreme temperatures and humidity. Wood, leather, and fabric are all susceptible to damage in harsh environments. A good facility will maintain temperatures between 55 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit with a relative humidity level that’s ideal for wood—around 40-50%.
Think About Accessibility
Think about how often you’ll need to access your furniture. If you plan to do so frequently, a storage unit on the ground floor might be more convenient. If you won’t need to access your items often, a higher unit might provide better security.
Factor in Size and Insurance
The size of the unit will depend on the amount and size of the furniture you need to store. Don’t just go for the smallest unit thinking you’ll save money—your furniture needs room to breathe to prevent mold and mildew. Verify if your homeowner’s or renter’s insurance covers items in storage. If not, the facility may offer insurance options.
Preparing Furniture for Storage
Preparing your furniture properly before storage can prevent damage and make the unpacking process easier.
Clean and Dust
Cleaning your furniture before storage not only prevents mold and pest infestations but also ensures it stays in good condition. Use appropriate cleaners for the type of material your furniture is made from. Once clean, allow the furniture to dry completely to prevent moisture issues.
Disassemble When Possible
If you have the option, disassemble large items like beds, tables, and shelves. This makes them easier to move and store and can also reduce the risk of damage during transport or in the unit.
Protect With Appropriate Materials
Wrap furniture in moving blankets, bubble wrap, or specially designed furniture covers to protect it from scratches and dust. Use plastic covers only on items that won’t be in storage for too long, as plastic can retain moisture and damage the furniture over time.
Don’t Stack if You Can Help It
It’s ideal not to stack furniture, especially if it has fabric or is particularly heavy. However, if you must, use pallets or boards between stacked items to allow air circulation.
Storing Furniture Correctly
Once at the facility, it is important to store your furniture in a way that maximizes space and protects the original condition.
Place Heavier Items on the Bottom
When stacking multiple items, place the heavier or sturdier pieces at the bottom and lighter or more delicate pieces on top. This prevents the bottom items from being crushed and damaged.
Keep Furniture Off the Ground
Use pallets or boards to lift furniture off the floor. This provides air circulation and protects the bottom of the furniture from dust and moisture.
Avoid Leanings or Overhanging Items
Ensure that all items are stored safely and aren’t leaning on walls, as this can cause distortion or damage over time. Don’t leave doors, drawers, and table leaves open, as this can stress the hinges or joints.
Regular Visits and Maintenance
Check-in on your stored furniture from time to time. This isn’t just for sentimental reasons; by giving everything a once-over periodically, you can catch any issues early and address them before they become serious problems.
Unpacking Your Furniture
When the time comes to reunite with your stored furniture, make the process as organized and careful as possible.
Plan Your Space
Before you bring the furniture home, plan where each item will go in your space. This can help you decide if you need to rearrange anything in the storage unit to make unpacking easier.
Unpack with Care
Take your time when unpacking, and remove any protective coverings gently. Check for any signs of damage or pests. If anything looks amiss, do not bring the item into your home; address the issue first.
Reassemble with Assistance
Reassembling furniture can be a two-person job, especially for items that are heavy or have multiple parts. Enlist the help of family or friends to avoid injury and ensure everything is put together properly.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your furniture will retain its beauty and functionality during its time in storage. Remember, when it comes to your prized possessions, a little extra care and preparation go a long way.
About Xtra Storage Companies –
Are you looking for affordable and reliable self-storage in Miami to store your clothing items and other accessories? Xtra Storage Companies is your one-stop destination!
Our self-storage units are safe, affordable, and climate-controlled to maintain your articles in the best possible condition. We also have self-storage units of all sizes to meet your requirements. You can reach out to us by filling out our online contact form.