7 Tips for Long-Term Storage

Storage units are rented both for long- and short-term needs. However, it is critical to note that items stored for a long period of time may require different care or treatment.

Finding an effective long-term storage solution is important for various life situations, such as moving abroad or storing seasonal items. Proper preparation is essential to protect belongings over time, including guidelines for accessibility, security, and cleanliness of storage units.

All items that you intend to store in a storage unit for a few years should be properly prepared for long-term storage if you plan on renting one.

Check out these tips below!

1. Plastic bags are not a suitable option

For storing items for the long term, plastic bags aren't the best option, since they are cheap and can't hold a lot of items.

As a result, plastic cannot breathe and can easily trap moisture, which can cause damage to your items.

2. Clean and dry all items

This is perhaps the most helpful tip. In order to keep items in a storage unit for a long time, it is essential that they are both clean and dry.

Pests can be attracted to items that have food debris, dirt, mud, or hair on them. Clean each item according to the manufacturer’s instructions. You should allow the item enough time to dry after cleaning it with water or a solution.

3. Inventory list

If you won't be entering your storage unit often, consider creating an inventory list so you know what's inside.

If you can't locate an item in a few years, you can check your inventory list to see if it was ever stored there.

4. Label all boxes

Before placing a box into your storage unit, make sure the outside is clearly marked with a list of contents.

Labeling the outside of your boxes will save you from having to sort through each one separately to find what you're looking for.

5. Protect your furniture

Make sure to protect your furniture from dust by covering each piece with a sheet.

When storing leather, wooden, or cloth furniture items, this is a good idea.

6. Ensure that all boxes are well-sealed

Use high-quality packing tape. Ensure that the boxes are well sealed to prevent dirt and dust from getting inside.

7. Never leave your storage unit unattended

One of the biggest mistakes you can make when storing items long-term is to forget about them until it's time for you to move them.

It is crucial that any issues with your items be addressed immediately.

Checking on your storage unit will make you aware of any problems as soon as they arise.

We Have Long-Term Storage Near You at Storage Corner!

We have self-storage facilities in Utah and Idaho.

Climate-controlled storage options are available at our storage facilities, suitable for long-term storage.

Reserve your space with Storage Corner today!

1. Assess Your Stuff

The first step in long-term storage planning is to assess your stuff. Take a good look at what you intend to store and make an inventory list.

This helps you determine the right unit size and any special requirements up front.

Note down large or bulky items (like that sectional sofa or heavy tools) because you’ll need enough space and maybe help moving them.

Think about fragile things – do you have lots of glassware or electronics that need careful packing?

Also, consider the climate sensitivity of your belongings.

For instance, wooden furniture, musical instruments, or photographs can be affected by extreme cold, heat, or humidity.

In a place like Utah or Idaho, where summers can be hot and winters are freezing, climate control might be important for those items.

By assessing what you have (size, fragility, value), you can choose a storage solution that fits just right.

Making a checklist or spreadsheet of your items is also useful for later, so years down the line you remember exactly what’s in your unit.

Long-term storage is much easier when you start with a clear plan and full knowledge of what you’ll be storing.

2. Choose the Right Storage Facility

Selecting the right storage facility is essential for the safety and security of your belongings. Here are some key factors to consider:

• Location: Choose a storage facility that is conveniently located near your home or business to make accessing your items easier.
• Security: Look for a storage facility with robust security measures, such as surveillance cameras, alarms, and on-site staff, to protect your belongings.
• Climate Control: Opt for a facility that offers climate-controlled storage units to safeguard your items from temperature and humidity fluctuations.
• Accessibility: Ensure the storage units are easily accessible and check if there are any restrictions on access hours.
• Reputation: Research the storage facility’s reputation by reading customer reviews and ratings to ensure they provide reliable and quality service.

By considering these factors, you can select a storage facility that offers a safe and secure environment for your long-term storage needs.

3. Use the Right Packing Materials

Using the right packing materials is crucial to protect your belongings during storage. Here are some essential packing supplies you may need:

• Sturdy Boxes: Choose boxes specifically designed for moving and storage, made from durable materials like cardboard or plastic.
• Bubble Wrap: Use bubble wrap to cushion fragile items and protect them from shocks and impacts.
• Packing Paper: Fill empty spaces in boxes with packing paper to prevent items from shifting during storage.
• Tape: Seal boxes with heavy-duty tape to keep them securely closed and prevent them from opening.
• Plastic Bins: Consider using plastic bins for items sensitive to moisture or pests, as they provide an extra layer of protection.

By using the right packing materials, you can ensure your belongings are well-protected during storage and remain in good condition.

4. Protect Against Moisture and Pests

One of the biggest challenges in long-term storage is preventing moisture damage and pests. Even in a dry climate, moisture can sneak in and cause mold, mildew, or rust over a long period. And no one wants to open their unit to find insects or rodents have made themselves at home. Luckily, a few precautions go a long way. First, make sure all items are completely clean and dry before storing. For example, if you’re putting away a lawn mower from your California home, wipe it down and let it air out so no moisture is trapped. For clothing or fabrics, consider using moisture absorbers (like silica gel packs or DampRid) inside boxes – these will soak up excess humidity.

It’s also smart to keep items off the concrete floor if possible. You can use pallets or shelves so that there’s airflow under your boxes and furniture. This is a common practice at our Utah and Idaho facilities because it prevents any minor water seepage or condensation on the floor from touching your things. As for pests, avoid storing any food or perishable items that could attract bugs or rodents. Use plastic bins with tight lids for items like bedding or clothing; this adds an extra layer that pests can’t easily penetrate. Some people place cedar blocks or pest deterrent sachets in their units – a nice natural way to discourage insects. Additionally, choosing a well-maintained facility (as discussed in section 2) is key: Storage Corner performs routine pest control, for instance, to help ensure tenants’ units stay pest-free. By being proactive about moisture and pests, you’ll safeguard your belongings so they come out of storage in the same shape they went in.

5. Consider Storage Unit Insurance

Storage unit insurance provides peace of mind and financial protection in case your belongings are damaged or stolen. Here are some things to consider when purchasing storage unit insurance:

• Coverage: Understand what is covered under the insurance policy and any exclusions.
• Cost: Compare the cost of different insurance policies and check for any available discounts.
• Provider: Research the insurance provider’s reputation to ensure they are reliable.
• Claims Process: Familiarize yourself with the claims process and how long it takes to resolve a claim.

By considering these factors, you can choose a storage unit insurance policy that meets your needs and provides financial protection for your belongings.

6. Keep Your Unit Organized and Accessible

It’s easy to shove everything into a storage unit and lock the door – out of sight, out of mind. But for long-term storage, a little organization at the start will save you huge headaches later. Organize your unit with accessibility in mind. This means you shouldn’t have to unload the entire unit just to find one box. One strategy is to arrange boxes and furniture along the walls of the unit, leaving a small pathway down the center or at least a gap so you can reach the back. Place items you think you might need to retrieve occasionally toward the front of the unit. For example, if you’re storing seasonal items, keep winter skis or holiday decorations near the front where you can grab them when the season comes. Items you know you won’t touch for years (maybe old files or large furniture pieces) can go toward the back.

We already talked about labeling boxes, but it’s worth mentioning again here: clearly labeled boxes and a basic “map” of your unit’s contents can be a lifesaver. Consider numbering your boxes and keeping an inventory list at home or on your phone (e.g., Box 12 – Kitchen appliances, stored back right corner). Then, if you need to find your slow cooker or extra blankets, you know exactly where to look. Another organizational tip is to use shelving units inside your storage space if allowed. Sturdy shelves can help stack boxes vertically and safely, and keep things off the floor. Storage Corner facilities in Utah and Idaho have tall unit ceilings, so taking advantage of vertical space with shelving is a smart move for long-term renters. Just be sure not to stack too precariously – heavy items on bottom, lighter on top for stability.

Ultimately, you want a unit that you can pop into and quickly locate what you need, even if it’s been a long time. It might take a bit more effort on move-in day, but maintaining an organized unit ensures that long-term storage doesn’t turn into a giant mystery box when you finally open it up.

7. Check In Periodically

When using long-term storage, it’s important not to “set it and forget it” completely. Make a point to check in on your storage unit periodically. This could mean visiting the unit every few months, or at least once or twice a year, just to make sure everything is okay. A quick visit allows you to catch potential issues early – for instance, you might discover a minor leak or some pest activity and address it before it causes real damage. If you’ve stored a vehicle or anything with batteries, periodic visits let you run the engine or recharge batteries to keep them from dying out (many folks in colder parts of Utah will store sports cars or motorcycles for winter and come start them occasionally).

Regular check-ins are also a good time to rotate items if needed – maybe swap which boxes are on top if you decide you’ll need something from the bottom, or take home items you realize you won’t need to store anymore. Plus, it’s an excuse to declutter the unit over time: long-term storage can accumulate extra “stuff” as years go by, so when you visit, you can assess if there are items you can donate or throw away instead of keeping them indefinitely.

If you’ve moved or changed contact information, visiting is a chance to ensure the facility has your current phone number and email. You wouldn’t want to miss important notifications about your unit or payments. And speaking of payments, periodically double-check that your autopay or billing is running smoothly – you don’t want a credit card expiration to lead to missed payments.

Many storage facilities, including Storage Corner, have staff on hand who do routine walkthroughs. Still, nothing beats your own eyes on your belongings. Think of it like an annual doctor’s check-up, but for your storage unit. A little preventative care will help ensure that after years in storage, your items are just as you left them. By staying engaged with your unit, you’ll maintain that peace of mind that drew you to long-term storage in the first place.