Wooden furniture is not merely beautiful but is timeless, a good investment, and adds character and a touch of royalty. However, it can be a little hard to manage or maintain when it’s time to store them. If furniture is not stored properly, it will crack, swell, or lose its finish and character. There are many ways to keep furniture safe and clean while it’s tucked away. Let’s go over how to store furniture in a storage unit so they stay in great shape for when you’re ready to use it again.
Give It a Good Clean First
Make sure you wipe off the dust and dirt with a soft, clean cloth, and make sure your furniture is dry before you pack it. You can also use a gentle wood cleaner to make sure that the seamless finish is not lost over time. That will help to lift grime without stripping the finish.
By using a wood polish or a conditioner after the cleaning, you can prevent the wood from drying out or cracking. Try not to rush the drying part; any leftover moisture will lead to the growth of mold in unexpected places like drawers, corners, and the underside of the tables, too. You surely don’t want crumbs or dust taking over the furniture and building their home there.
Take It Apart if Possible
In cases where it is possible to disassemble the furniture, it is preferable to do so instead of transporting it whole. It will not only occupy less space but also be easy to move because it will not exert much pressure on the joints, thus eliminating the chances of being damaged.
Always keep all screws, bolts, and small pieces in their place in a plastic bag. Next, mark each bag with the destination in it and tape it to a place that is easy to access. This is a minor step, but it will save a lot of breath, particularly when assembling it again.
Keep It Off the Ground
Do not place the wooden furniture on the floor, most particularly on the concrete floor. Do not place wooden furniture on the floor, especially concrete in particular.
A floor that appears dry can actually harbor some moisture, which gradually leaks into the wood. You should just elevate your furniture a bit with pallets, wooden planks, or even with heavyweight cardboard. This is not only useful when it comes to preventing moisture damage, but it also enhances airflow in between and thus keeps everything fresh.
Select the Right Storage Unit
You don’t need to worry about how to pack things for moving; by following a simple checklist, you can easily make the move successful. The two greatest enemies of the wood are temperature and humidity. Wood swells when the air is excessively damp and shrinks when it is unusually dry. The ever-moving may lead to cracks and splits.
A storage unit with a controlled climate ensures that there is a stable condition, and this is precisely what wood furniture requires. With the antiques, leather, or anything sentimental, it justifies the minor incremental pay.
Organize Everything Wisely
When you are moving your furniture into the unit, you should consider how you are going to put it there. Place heavier furniture, such as tables or dressers, on the other side, where it will not be disturbed, and the lighter ones towards the front, where they are reachable. Attempt to create some spaces between objects to allow the circulation of air.
It is best not to pile furniture unless you have to; the weight and pressure can bend or even dent it. Try to store everything several inches away from the walls. That scrap of space also serves to avoid stagnant humidity, which may silently destroy wood as time passes.
Check On It Every So Often
Although you may be storing everything perfectly, it is always an excellent idea to go and see your storage area occasionally. Check to see if there is an early onset of mold, moisture, or pests. Check wooden surfaces by running your hand to determine whether they are wet or smell musty.
Silica gel packs or moisture absorbers can also be added so that the humidity does not develop. The frequent check-ins will save you much trouble in the future.
How to Protect Wood Furniture in Storage: Final Thoughts
Wooden furniture does not demand much when it comes to storage, except that it is delicate. Wash it, wrap it properly, take it off the floor, and provide it with a stable place to sleep. You will be glad enough when you come back to those pieces and realize you had taken the time to do it correctly. Wooden furniture will last longer if you keep it as it should be.