When it comes to storing everyday household items when you move, there are a few pieces of advice that you can follow to ensure that they are stored in the best manner possible.
For electrical appliances, there are a few basic tips to follow. Fridges and freezers should be emptied quite a while before any relocation to ensure that you avoid any kind of water damage. Freezers, fridges and other types of white goods should be cleaned and dried prior to storage, with a deodorizer placed inside to keep the appliance fresh and the door allowed to remain a little ajar. When you store your fridge after a move, make sure that the door is still wedged open; this prevents the buildup of mildew and allows for airflow.
Stoves and other types of cooking equipment need to be thoroughly cleaned prior to be being placed into storage. Other items should not be placed inside white goods, although some goods can be placed on the top of fridges, stoves and freezers. Electrical tools and other sorts of handyman equipment should always be cleaned before being put into storage and, if at all possible, put into a sturdy box in order to keep them better protected.
When it comes to storing furniture, cupboards, drawers and wardrobes should be emptied to protect the framework and shelving. Beds should be disassembled, as should tables if possible, and the legs carefully wrapped. Tables and other fragile items should be stored on padding and placed upside down on items of a sturdier nature. Upholstery should be vacuum cleaned prior to being stored. It is a bad idea to use plastic covers for mattresses and furniture, as this can increase the chance of mold as a result of humidity; however, a plastic cover might be ideal during transport, especially when it comes to items that might be damaged if it were to suddenly start raining. Lightweight chairs can be stacked either on top of overturned tables or seat to seat.
For goods that are battery operated, it is vital to make sure that equipment and toys do not get damaged should battery leakage take place. The damage that can be caused by a leaking battery is often too serious to repair, so batteries should be removed from all equipment and toys before they are placed in storage. When it comes to documents or books, you should bear in mind that boxes that are full of books tend to be very heavy. They should be stacked flat rather than on their sides, preferably in small book cartons so that they are easier to handle. If your books are being placed in storage for a considerable period of time then it is a good idea to sprinkle naphthalene flakes among them.
For computers, it is recommended that you reuse the original packaging they came in – if you still have it. If not, you should use good quality cartons and bubble wrap.
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