Furniture is one of the main reasons people hire self-storage. It is also one of the easiest things to damage through rushed packing.
Michael offers one size only: a full 20ft steel container. That gives you roughly 160 sq ft for a substantial household load, but furniture still needs to be clean, dry and protected properly.
A sofa wedged against a sharp bed frame, a damp mattress wrapped in plastic or a polished table buried under heavy boxes can all create an expensive surprise months later. The good news is that most storage damage is avoidable.
Start with clean, completely dry furniture
Vacuum upholstered furniture, wipe hard surfaces and let everything dry before wrapping. Even a small amount of trapped moisture can create smells, staining or mould over time.
Do not clean a sofa on Sunday night and wrap it first thing Monday morning. Give fabric and wood enough time to dry properly.
Dismantle large pieces where practical
Remove table legs, shelves, bed slats and detachable sofa feet if the design allows it. Dismantled furniture uses less room and is easier to protect.
Keep every fixing in a labelled bag. Attach the bag to the furniture or place all fixings in one clearly marked box. Take photographs before dismantling complicated pieces.
Use breathable protection
Moving blankets, cotton sheets and proper furniture covers protect surfaces while allowing some airflow. Plastic can be useful as an outer layer during transport, but avoid sealing slightly damp furniture tightly in plastic for long-term storage.
Protect corners, glass panels, handles and polished surfaces. Cardboard corner guards and clean blankets cost very little compared with repairing a dining table.
How to store sofas and armchairs
- Vacuum beneath cushions and remove crumbs
- Make sure fabric is dry
- Remove feet where safe to do so
- Cover with a breathable furniture cover
- Keep sharp or heavy items away from the upholstery
- Do not stack heavy boxes on the seat or arms
How to store a mattress
Clean and dry the mattress, then use a proper mattress bag or breathable cover. Store it flat where possible, particularly for heavier foam or hybrid mattresses. Long periods balanced on one edge can distort some mattresses.
Do not place heavy objects on top. A mattress is not a shelf, however tempting that lovely flat surface looks.
How to protect wooden furniture
Dust and clean wood with a suitable product, then allow it to dry. Use blankets rather than placing adhesive tape directly on finished surfaces. Avoid stacking heavy boxes on thin tabletops and keep furniture stable rather than leaning precariously against the container wall.
How to prepare appliances
Defrost fridges and freezers, drain washing machines and dishwashers, and clean every appliance before storage. Secure cables and loose components. Where appropriate and safe, leave appliance doors slightly ajar to prevent trapped odours.
Load in the right order
Large, sturdy furniture normally goes in first. Build a stable base, then add lighter boxes. Keep fragile pieces protected and do not force furniture into gaps that are too small.
If you need regular access, leave an aisle and keep frequently used belongings near the doors. Our full storage container packing guide shows how to plan the whole load.
Should furniture sit directly on the floor?
A clean, dry steel container is designed to protect stored goods, but good packing still matters. Keep fabrics clean, avoid trapping moisture and consider using clean boards, shelving or furniture feet where sensible. Do not introduce dirty or damp pallets without checking first.
Make a furniture condition record
Photograph valuable pieces before loading and note any existing marks. This is useful for your own records and can help if several people are involved in the move.
Furniture storage in St Leonards
Michael Horley Self-Storage offers one drive-up 20ft container for £180 per month at 371 Bexhill Road, St Leonards-on-Sea. You fit your own lock, and access is arranged to suit you.
See how much fits in the container, visit the St Leonards storage page, or call Michael on 07747 607543.