Two long rows of storage unit roller doors facing each other across a wide concrete aisle

Guide

How to store furniture safely

Furniture comes out of storage in the same shape it went in when you prepare it properly. Here's how, piece by piece.

Before it leaves the house

Clean it
Vacuum fabric, wipe wood and dry everything completely. Dirt and damp feed mould.
Take it apart
Remove legs, bed frames and table leaves. Bag and tape the hardware to the piece.
Empty drawers
Full drawers strain the runners and make pieces too heavy to move safely.
Treat it
Polish wood and condition leather. A fresh coat protects the surface while it sits.

By material

How to protect each material
Material	Do	Avoid
Wood	Polish, cover with cotton sheets, keep off the floor	Plastic wrap, which traps moisture and marks the finish
Leather	Condition, cover with a breathable cloth	Direct contact with plastic or newspaper ink
Fabric	Vacuum, cover with sheets, stand upright	Stacking heavy boxes on cushions
Glass and mirrors	Bubble wrap, stand on edge, mark FRAGILE	Lying them flat under other things
Mattresses	Breathable mattress bag, store flat or on a long edge	Bending or folding

Moisture

Moisture is the main risk, especially in coastal Christchurch. Make sure everything is dry before it goes in. Lift furniture onto pallets so air moves underneath, leave gaps off the walls and use moisture absorbers in a long stay. Check the unit every few months if you can.

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Heavy, solid pieces go against the back wall
Keep couches and armchairs on their feet
Stack chairs seat to seat with a blanket between
Put light boxes on top of sturdy tables, never on upholstery

Ready to store? See furniture storage or get a quote.

Get a quote

Every unit is $469 per month including GST, with a 6-month minimum stay. Tell us what you're storing and when, and we'll tell you what's free.