Preserving Your Valuables: A Guide to Long-Term Storage

Long Term Storage


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May 25th, 2023


Whether you are moving, spring cleaning, or simply looking to minimalize your space, long-term storage can be a great option to safely preserve items you are not ready to let go of yet. However, to ensure that your valuables remain in pristine condition, it is necessary to practice proper preservation techniques.

  1. Clean and Prepare: Before storing your items, clean them from dust, dirt, or debris. This ensure your items will not be subject to staining or deterioration.
  2. Appropriate Packaging: Choosing the right packaging materials is essential when storing items for a long period of time. The following tips will help keep your items protected while being stored. A) Boxes: If possible, choose high-quality boxes that are appropriate for the items you intend to store. Avoid cardboard boxes that have been damaged or worn out. B) Bubble Wrap and Packing Paper: To keep items such as glassware and electronics safe in the storage unit it is crucial to use bubble wrap or packaging paper. Wrap the valuable item in either of these to create a cushion, protecting it from possible damage. C) Acid-Free Tissue Paper: When storing clothing, photographs, or artwork, place acid-free tissue paper between each item to prevent color transfer or deterioration.
  3. Climate Control: When deciding on a storage unit, consider the effects that extreme temperatures can cause on your stored items. High temperatures and moisture can cause stored possessions to warp, crack, rust, or even melt some materials. To combat this, consider renting a climate-controlled unit. These units offer controlled temperatures which is suitable to keep all types of items in good condition for long and short-term storing. Items that are highly susceptible to damage from extreme temperatures include artwork, electronics, and wooden furniture.
  4. Labeling and Organizing: Approaching your unit with an organizational plan can save you valuable time and effort when retrieving a stored item. Lableing boxes and containers with its contents is beneficial for keeping track of stored items.