Saving effort, money and time with storage

It is easy to protect and maintain items that you are putting in storage by making use of packing products such as boxes and cartons, wrapping paper, plastic covers, port-a-robes and tape.

Boxes should always be filled to capacity, as bulging boxes or those that are only partially full may collapse.  You should always pack boxes not on edge but flat, while heavier items should be packed in smaller boxes for the sake of making them easier to handle.  Cartons should be packed and labeled one room at a time to make the process of unpacking in your new home much simpler and to make it easier to access particular items while they are in storage.

Wardrobes, drawers and cupboards should always be emptied before being taken into storage in order to prevent structural damage.  Personal good and items of clothing should be packed in clean, strong boxes.  To save space and prevent damage, the legs from furniture such as tables and bed bases should be removed.  Lounges should be vacuumed prior to storage to avoid attracting vermin.  When it comes to appliances, freezers, fridges and other white goods should be completely clean and dry before being put into storage.  Make sure that the doors are left slightly ajar and place deodorizers inside them to keep them fresh.  Do not place anything on the shelves to prevent marking and damage.

If you intend to store anything that is made of metal, there are a number of tips that you can follow to help them to remain in good condition after being placed in a storage facility.  To prevent rust from developing it is a good idea to wipe iron, cast iron or chrome surfaces with a form of light oil, while silver should be wrapped in non-acidic tissue paper or plastic to cut down on tarnishing.

When it comes to electrical goods, this equipment always needs to be treated with special care on account of its often delicate nature.  If it is at all possible electrical goods should be repacked in their original boxes; if this is out of the question, they should be individually wrapped in bubble wrap and packed in cartons, making absolutely certain that any gaps have been packed out and that the top of the carton has been completely and firmly sealed.  In terms of computers, while many modern computers come with what is referred to as ‘self parking heads’, you should consult the retailer or refer to the manufacturer’s manual if you are uncertain if this is the case, particularly if you are intending to place the computer in storage for more than six months.  Battery-operated goods should always have the batteries removed in order to prevent battery leakage from causing damage to the item.

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