Self-storage units provide an easy accessible location for you to store your belongings. Using storage requires more than just putting as much as you can into your unit. There are dos and don'ts to storage that should be observed to get the most from your unit and avoid damages to your belongings.
What Should You Do?
When using storage, there are some steps you should take to ensure the safety of your belongings. For instance, you should always use pallets to keep your belongings off the floor. In the event that there is a flood or other water-related issue, the pallets can potentially save your belongings from being damaged. Other dos of storage include:
- Skip the plastic. Plastic can cause moisture to develop on the belongings and lead to the development of mold and mildew.
- Clean all appliances before storing. Dirty appliances can be a haven for dirt and bacteria. By cleaning it out, you can help maintain the integrity of your appliances.
- Apply machine oil to metals. Depending on how long metal items are stored and the environment, it is possible for rust to develop. To prevent this, apply oil to all metals.
- Use color-coded tags. Label electronics and their accessories with colored tags and ties. When it is time to remove the items from storage, you can quickly match them by color.
- Buy insurance. Any belongings that you have in storage that are valuable should be insured.
What Should You Not Do?
As equally important as what you should do when using storage, is what you should avoid doing. For instance, you should never store food items. The food can attract bugs and other vermin, which could lead to damage to your other belongings. Other don'ts of using storage include:
- Do not store flammables. Gasoline, paint, and other flammables can easily heat up in storage. To avoid this, drain all flammables from tools, equipment, and other machinery before storage.
- Do not store weapons or ammunition. Not only could weapons accidentally discharge while stored, they could end up in the wrong hands.
- Avoid storing invaluable items. Invaluable items, such as family heirlooms, should never be placed in storage. Even with security, you want to ensure that the items are perfectly secure.
- Do not use newspaper. Newspaper is commonly used to wrap belongings, but the ink can transfer to your items. Opt for bubble wrap, comforters, or other cloths to wrap your belongings.
- Never share your password. Never share your passcode or password with anyone whose name is not on your rental agreement.
Storage. such as at All American Mini Storage, is a convenient way to keep track of your belongings not in use in your home. By following these dos and don'ts, you can ensure your belongings are still in good condition when removing them.
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