alternative uses for portable storage units
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alternative uses for portable storage units

Portable storage units are useful in many different situations. If you are looking to get some extra stuff out of your home so that you can get some renovating projects completed or just to decrease the clutter, you can have a storage container dropped off right at your front door. What else could you use this service for? My blog is filled with tips and ideas about how to use portable storage units to make your life a little bit easier. Maybe, you will find a use for portable storage unit that you have not even considered in the past, but comes in extremely handy.

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alternative uses for portable storage units

4 Tips For Keeping Your Furniture Safe While In Storage

Zeynel Hofkamp

Whether you are moving a long distance or simply need to place your items in storage, being meticulous about the way you care for items and store them can prevent costly replacements later. With thorough planning, you can avoid common causes of damage.

Invest In Sturdy Supplies

Simple supplies, such as mattress bags, are often not enough to keep your furniture protected while in storage or when you are moving long distances. Consider investing in large rolls of plastic wrap, which are often used to secure boxes on pallets. Since the plastic is created to keep large numbers of boxes together, it is sturdy enough to protect furniture and keep moisture out.

Similar to plastic wrap used in the kitchen, it clings to itself, so you should not need to use tape or another adhesive to keep it intact. Large rolls of plastic are ideal for mattresses and other furniture that has fabric. When you are storing these items, you may want to protect them from minor problems, such as dust and odors. However, you may need to include small ventilation holes to prevent mold growth if your storage unit is located in a humid area.

Avoid Storing Electronics

If you are only keeping electronics in storage for short periods and they are located nearby so you can keep a check on changes in the weather, it is okay to store your electronics. Otherwise, it is difficult to safely store electronics in a conventional storage facility. If you must store your electronics, you should invest in a storage unit with temperature controlled amenities.

Unfortunately, it does not take more than one freezing night or a short period in high heat and humidity to cause electronics to explode or melt. You should take similar care if you have any chemicals or simple household products in a can. Some overlooked items include aerosol hair care products, air fresheners, or compressed air. These products can quickly explode under extreme temperatures, causing damage to your items and neighboring units or starting a fire.

Clean Furniture Properly

Before packing up your furniture and storing it, make sure you take time to clean each piece. The best way to do a thorough cleaning is to use a vacuum with a hose attachment to clean out corners and other small crevices. Use disinfecting wipes to clean tables or other surfaces that may have food residue. Crumbs of food under the cushions of your couch or on tables can become an invitation for bugs and other pests.

Although most storage facilities do what they can to prevent pest infestations, you are dealing with hundreds of other people who may bring pests into the storage facility. Cleaning your furniture can also reduce the chances of dust and dirt sticking to your items if you store them in a humid location. Once dust and dirt sticks to fabric items, such as clothing and furniture, it often stains and is difficult to remove completely.

Protect Wood Items

You may consider protecting larger pieces of wooden furniture, such as tables or bookcases, but do not forget about smaller items, such as sofa and chair legs. Wooden items can be easily scratched or damaged, and some types of pests are attracted to wood, such as termites. For smaller items, you can purchase yards of upholstery foam at your local fabric store. Wrap it around the item and secure it with a layer of plastic wrap or tape. A less expensive alternative for larger items is cushioning the item with a layer of bubble wrap under the plastic or tape. If the added expense is within your moving or storage budget, it is best to use upholstery foam for larger items.

Keeping your items in their original condition while they are in storage or on a long-distance move can be a challenge. With adequate preparation, you can reduce the likelihood of damage to your items. For more tips, contact a local furniture storage facility


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