Seat Unit

What is the best way to store furniture in a storage unit?

I will be moving to TX soon and my wooden furniture will not be able to fit in my apartment. I don't know how long I will be there, but I am planning on having my items stored in a non-climatized storage unit. I am most worried about my antique wood pieces that will not fit in my apartment. How can I help keep moisture levels down in my unit? Are there battery opperated dehumidifiers? What is the best way to store my wooden furniture? Any suggestions to help eliminate the musty unit smells? How can I keep my furniture from smelling gross? Any suggestions in general about storing furniture? Thank you!

Public Comments

1. Of course it is best to store in a climate controlled unit, but if you can't you should cover the antiques with a soft cover. I would scatter dryer softener sheets liberally to control the musty smells. The dryer sheets will also repel rodents. When you finally remove the items, make sure you stabilize the pieces in your home for a few months keeping them at a constant relative humidity before using or sitting on them. Remember these antiques have lasted lots of years in adverse conditions. They will survive for a little while in storage. I do not know of any battery operated dehumidifiers.
2. Go to a local furniture store & ask them if you can "have" the plastic that mattresses come in. Then you can put your furniture inside it or cover your furniture carefully. You can set cans of charcoal around in the storage unit to help aborb the dampness.
3. I would suggest getting them off of the ground. Storage units are notorious for ruining things b/c of leaks. The furniture plastic is a good idea. Also, there is a product called Damp Rid that works wonders. It will absorb the moisture in the area. I would suggest buying 3 or 4 small tubs (around $10 each) and replacing them every 4-5 weeksYou might also want to get mouse traps or rodent repellent just to be safe. Good luck!!