Carefully
plan your storage space. Place items that you need
easy access to or first in the front of your
unit. Plan walkways in larger units.
Make a complete inventory of all your stored items. List the
contents of boxes on 3 x 5 index cards (instead of on each
box). Number the boxes to match card numbers. Keep
index cards in a safe convenient place for use when
unpacking.
Use uniform boxes that you can easily stack placing heaviest boxes
on the bottom. Fill boxes to their maximum capacity to
avoid collapsing.
Do label fragile boxed items as such.
Never store food in your space. Packaged food will attract
pests. Canned food may freeze, expand or leak.
Check clothing pockets for candy.
Clean
and dry refrigerators/freezers thoroughly to prevent
mildew. Wedge doors open while in storage. Use the
space inside appliances and drawers inside furniture to store
smaller items.
Disassemble large furniture as much as possible. Put screws and
hardware in a plastic bag, label and attach to furniture for
easier reassembly.
Never store anything in sealed-plastic bags, especially in
non-climate controlled storage. The humidity may cause
damage to your belongings.
Wax wood furniture before storing to help avoid moisture damage.
Stack sofas and loveseats on end to save floor space. If you stand
mattresses on their side, prop them up to stay straight to
prevent bending out of shape. Clean vacuumed cushions should
be placed on top of furniture.
Place a drop cloth over your belongings to help protect from dust.
At least once per month, visit your unit. Let new air
circulate through.