How to protect items in long term storage

When you place your belongings into long term storage, the goal is simple: you want them to come out in the same condition they went in.

Whether you are moving abroad, renovating, or just trying to free up space at home, learning how to protect items in long-term storage ensures your possessions stay clean, dry, and undamaged for as long as they are away.

While short-term storage can get by with a quick packing job, long term storage requires more care and attention. The right preparation can prevent damage, mould, mildew, or pests, and it can save you a lot of time and money later when you come back to collect your items.

Below, we look at practical advice for packing, storing, and protecting your items in a storage unit for the long haul.

Start with the Right Environment

Before packing anything, assess the storage facility itself. The storage unit should be clean, well-ventilated, and ideally climate-controlled to reduce humidity and moisture build-up. High humidity is one of the biggest causes of long-term damage, especially for wood, paper, and fabrics. If the air feels damp or musty when you open the door, that’s a sign the environment might not be right for your items.

Choose a storage unit that’s dry, sealed, and free from cracks or leaks. If you’re renting space outdoors, make sure your storage space is raised slightly above ground level or that you use pallets to keep your boxes off the floor. This prevents moisture from seeping into your cardboard boxes or plastic containers over time.

When possible, select an indoor unit with temperature and humidity control. These storage environments maintain stable conditions year-round, protecting delicate items like artwork, furniture, and clothing from warping or deterioration.

Clean and Prepare Everything Before Storing

It might sound simple, but cleaning your items properly before placing them in storage is one of the most effective ways to prevent long-term damage. Any dirt, grease, or dust left on surfaces can attract pests, retain moisture, and even cause stains or odours over time.

For furniture, wipe down all surfaces and use a mild cleaner suitable for the material. Apply polish or oil to wood, and leather conditioner for sofas or chairs to prevent cracking. For clothing, always wash, dry, and pack them in labelled bags or airtight containers. Even small traces of sweat or fabrics softener can lead to mildew if the environment becomes damp.

When cleaning artwork, frames, or other delicate items, use soft materials and avoid harsh chemicals. Always ensure everything is completely dry before it goes into storage. Even a small amount of moisture can cause mould or deterioration over long periods.

Use Strong, Protective Packing Materials

Your packing choices are just as important as the storage unit itself. Cheap or thin materials break down over time, offering little protection. Instead, invest in sturdy cardboard boxes, plastic bins, and strong bubble wrap to keep your items secure and protected.

Wrap each item carefully, paying special attention to anything fragile or breakable. Use bubble wrap around glass, ceramics, and electronics. Wrap tables and wooden furniture in soft blankets or moving pads to prevent scratches and chips.

For smaller items, consider double boxing them. Place them in a smaller box with padding, then inside a larger box for extra protection. Always fill any empty space with packing material so nothing shifts during transport or while in storage.

Avoid using newspaper for wrapping, as the ink can transfer to surfaces over time. Acid-free paper is a better choice, especially for artwork or fabrics.

Pack Smart and Think Long-Term

How you pack your storage unit can make a big difference. Start by placing heavy items like furniture at the back and lighter boxes at the front for easier access. Stack from largest to smallest, keeping everything stable and balanced.

Never overload cardboard boxes, as they can collapse under pressure. If possible, use plastic containers with secure lids for extra protection against moisture and pests. Label everything clearly, not just on the top but also on the sides so you can identify boxes without unstacking them.

To allow air circulation and prevent mould, leave a small gap between your items and the walls of the storage unit. Avoid pushing furniture flat against walls, as trapped moisture can cause long-term damage.

Elevate and Separate

Keeping your items off the floor is one of the most overlooked steps in long term storage. Use wooden pallets or metal shelving to create distance between your boxes and the ground. This helps prevent moisture and mildew from spreading during humid months or if the storage facility experiences leaks.

Shelving also helps with organisation, giving you more space to arrange your items neatly while avoiding piles that can collapse over time. Fragile items and artwork should always be stored upright, never flat, as stacking can cause warping and scratches.

If you’re storing furniture with removable parts, disassemble where possible. Keep screws and fittings together in clearly labelled bags and tape them to the matching furniture piece. Cover everything with breathable fabric or old cotton sheets to protect from dust without trapping moisture.

Preventing Pests, Mould, and Mildew

Pests and mould are two of the most damaging factors in long-term storage. To protect your items, take preventive measures from day one. Use airtight containers for clothing, bedding, and fabrics, and avoid storing food or organic materials that could attract insects.

Add moisture absorbers or silica gel packs inside boxes to control humidity levels. You can also use natural pest deterrents like cedar blocks or lavender sachets, which discourage insects without harsh chemicals.

Inspect your storage unit regularly if possible. A quick check every few months helps you spot signs of mildew, damage, or condensation early, giving you time to fix problems before they spread.

If you notice a damp smell or visible mould, clean affected surfaces immediately with vinegar or a mild disinfectant, and replace any damaged packaging. Keeping the storage space dry and clean will protect your items for years to come.

Protecting Furniture and Large Items

Large furniture pieces need special attention in long term storage. Clean them thoroughly, then disassemble beds, tables, and shelving where possible to save space and prevent strain on joints.

Wrap sofas and upholstered items in breathable covers, not plastic, as it can trap moisture and encourage mildew. For wooden furniture, add an extra layer of protection using blankets or padded covers.

Metal furniture or equipment should be wiped down and treated with anti-rust spray. Keep furniture elevated on pallets to reduce contact with the floor and maintain airflow underneath.

For artwork, use acid-free tissue paper, bubble wrap, and strong outer packaging. Store frames upright and away from sharp corners or heavy boxes. Even a light touch from another object can leave marks on canvases or glass over time.

Managing Moisture and Humidity

Keeping moisture under control is the single most important factor in protecting items long-term. Even small changes in humidity can cause irreversible damage to wood, paper, and fabrics.

Place moisture traps or dehumidifiers inside your storage unit if allowed by the storage facility. These help absorb excess water from the air and maintain balance. Avoid sealing storage containers too tightly without any airflow, as this can actually increase condensation inside.

If you are using cardboard boxes, line the bottoms with plastic sheeting for extra protection. For added care, open the storage unit every few months to let fresh air in and check the overall condition of your items.

Safety and Peace of Mind

Long-term storage isn’t just about physical protection; it’s also about peace of mind. You want to know your items are safe even when you cannot check on them regularly. Choose a storage facility with strong security systems, including 24-hour monitoring and access control.

Keep a full inventory of what you’ve stored, including photographs and descriptions. This makes it easier to keep track of your belongings and helps with insurance claims in the unlikely event of damage.

Before closing up your storage unit, do one final check. Make sure nothing is left unwrapped, all boxes are sealed, and there’s enough space for air to circulate. Label fragile items clearly, and leave a small aisle so you can reach everything without moving large objects around.

Taking Care Over Time

When it comes to how to protect items in long-term storage, attention to detail is key. Everything you do before and during the storage process contributes to how well your items will last. Clean thoroughly, pack carefully, use sturdy materials, and monitor your storage space regularly.

No matter how long your items stay in storage, the combination of careful preparation and regular care will keep them safe, dry, and in great condition. Taking these extra steps now will give you lasting peace of mind, knowing that your possessions are protected until the day you bring them back home.