Tips On How To Maintain Your Self Storage Unit After Storing Your Items

Posted on: 25 November 2015

A self storage unit is a great way to put away items that you do not need on a daily basis. It's secure, allows you to decongest your home, and gives you the convenience of checking up on your items at any time you so wish. However, it's important to maintain your items while in storage so as to avoid damage. Below, discover a few things you can do to keep your items in good condition.

Box your stuff

Anything that can fit inside a box should remain in one during the duration of storage. This has several benefits. For one, boxes add a lot of organization to your storage plans, especially if they are labeled well to show the contents inside. You will be in a position to find what you want easily without having to tear the entire unit apart. They are also easier and safer to pile atop each other so you get to economize on the limited space. Two, boxes make removal easy, as you do not need to repack your stuff when you need it out of the unit. And of course, boxes protect your items from pests to an extent.

Wrap everything that can't be boxed

For larger items that cannot be put inside a box, wrap them up with storage blankets or plastic wrap. This helps to protect your items from moisture and moisture-related damage such as mold and rot. There's also the ever-present risk of dust coating your items and ruining their value, especially sofas and electronics. You can buy such wrapping materials from storage unit canteens or order them online.

Inspect your items once a month

Many people make the mistake of locking their items in a storage unit and never going back to inspect them. This is not a good idea. It's advisable that you go and check out your stored items, preferably once a month. This visit will allow you to see if all of your piled boxes are still in their right position or whether some have fallen. It's also a good opportunity to inspect your storage unit for moisture damage and pest infestation, especially rodents. Fumigate your unit and place desiccants around the unit if need be. Oil your unit's lock as well to prevent jamming or rusting. If you have time, air your storage unit by leaving the door open for about an hour. This will help remove some of the damp and usher in some warmer air.

The above will help maintain your items in good condition. This way, you won't be in for a rude shock when you seek to retrieve your possessions, either for personal use, gifting, or resale. For more information and tips, contact self storage companies in your area. 

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