How to Prepare Your Items Before Putting Them in Self-Storage


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November 12th, 2025


Using a storage unit can be a game-changer when you're decluttering your home, in the middle of a move, or simply downsizing. It offers a secure place for your belongings. However, just putting items into a unit isn't enough. Proper preparation is the key to making sure everything you store comes out in the same condition it went in. Before you rent a storage unit, it's worth taking the time to get your things ready. This guide will walk you through the essential steps for preparing common items for storage.

Clean Everything Thoroughly

The most important first step is to clean every single item you plan to store. This might seem tedious, but it's your best defense against mold, mildew, and pests. Dirt, food crumbs, and moisture can cause serious damage over time.
  • Furniture: Wipe down all wood and plastic surfaces. For upholstered items like couches and chairs, use a suitable fabric cleaner to remove any stains or dirt. Let everything air dry completely.
  • Appliances: If you're storing a refrigerator or freezer, it needs to be defrosted and cleaned thoroughly. Make sure the interior is bone dry to prevent mildew growth. It’s a good idea to prop the doors open slightly while in storage.
  • Clothing & Fabrics: Wash or dry-clean all textiles. This removes body oils and dirt that can attract insects and cause discoloration.

Disassemble Large Items

To maximize the space in your self storage unit and make moving day easier, break down any large items. Things like bed frames, dining tables, and bookshelves can often be disassembled. Taking them apart not only saves a surprising amount of room but also reduces the risk of scratching walls or damaging the item during transport.Keep all the hardware together by Keep all the hardware together by putting all screws, bolts, and small components into a labelled plastic bag and taping it securely to the largest piece of furniture it belongs to. You'll thank yourself later when it's time to reassemble everything.

Pack with Care

How you pack is just as important as what you pack. Using the right materials will protect your belongings from breaks, scratches, and dust.Here are some essential supplies you’ll need:
  • Sturdy boxes (clear is a great option so you can see inside)
  • Strong packing tape
  • Bubble wrap or packing paper
  • Furniture covers or old blankets
When you start packing, wrap fragile items like mirrors, picture frames, and dishes individually in bubble wrap or paper. Avoid the temptation to overpack boxes; keep them at a weight you can comfortably lift. Finally, label each box clearly with its contents and, if helpful, the room it belongs to. This makes finding things so much simpler.

Protect Against Damage

A little extra protection goes a long way, especially for valuable or sensitive items. Drape furniture with plastic covers or old sheets to shield it from dust and moisture that can settle over time. For electronics, the original boxes offer the best protection. If you no longer have them, wrap the items securely in bubble wrap and place them in a well-padded, sturdy box.

Create an Inventory System

You might think you’ll remember everything you put into your self storage space, but it’s easy to forget after a few months. Creating an inventory is a lifesaver. It doesn’t have to be complicated; a simple spreadsheet listing the boxes and their contents works perfectly. For a more modern approach, several apps are designed for this purpose. Take photos of valuable items before storing them for your records. This system saves a ton of time when you need to retrieve a specific item without unpacking half the unit.

Get It Right from the Start

Taking these simple steps—cleaning, disassembling, packing, and protecting—will ensure your belongings stay safe and in great shape. A little bit of work before you move everything into your unit provides peace of mind and makes the entire process smoother. When you’re ready to rent a storage unit, proper preparation is your best investment.Ready to find the right storage solution for your needs? Contact Alliston Self Storage today!