Storage units are the best way to keep your items safe until the next time you need them. People use them for many different purposes – during the moving process or renovating, saving old furniture, hobby supplies, or seasonal items. There are endless ways to use your storage. However, one thing is for sure – you need to prepare your items for storage so they can stay safe for a long time. When it comes to storing furniture, it’s more than just placing them in a safe corner. Disassembling is one of the best methods to make sure your furniture stays intact until the time you need it. It’s perfect for long-term storage plans, and we’ll tell you everything you need to know about this. Here is the best guide to disassembling furniture for storage.
What are the items that need disassembling?
As storage units offer limited space, their purpose is to store as many items as possible. Therefore, the difficult things are big furniture pieces, especially those in irregular shapes or with certain parts sticking out. Usually, people need help storing chairs, tables, desks, beds, cabinets, etc. Large exercise equipment can give you a headache if you have a home gym. It’s best to deal with these items in parts – disassembling furniture for storage is necessary before packing.
Measurements
Before you start disassembling, be sure to check if it’s necessary. This means you should take measurements of the storage unit, the doors, and the items you want to store. Sometimes, breaking apart something that easily fits the team is not required. This also depends on how many things you plan to keep and how much space you have left.
Pick a safe place to do the work
When dealing with heavy furniture, safety should always come first. Start with picking a safe place to disassemble your items. This should be away from fragile items, and your kids and pets. Pick a room that doesn’t have many things and is clean and dry. It can be the room where the furniture already is, or a garage, etc. Any place with enough space to maneuver without making a mess will do just fine.
Prepare the tools
Every piece of furniture is different, but most of them have screws. That’s why you should prepare tools such as a screwdriver, crowbar, wrench, lineman’s pliers, and hammer. Be sure to have a couple of sizes of screwdrivers to make sure you have one suitable for the items you plan to disassemble. These tools will help you disassemble your items much faster and with minimum risk of hurting yourself.
Tools you need for disassembling furniture for storage will make the job easier.
Pick the right storage unit
To ensure your items stay safe after you disassemble them and place them in the unit, be sure to pick a place appropriate for wooden furniture and other delicate items. It is essential to maintain optimal humidity to prevent irreparable damage. Moisture is not suitable for wood, so choose climate-controlled storage, clean it properly, and ensure it’s scorched before placing the items inside.
The storage you choose needs to be safe and prevent moisture from damaging your belongings.
Check the manual
Certain furniture stores let you assemble your own – giving you all the necessary tools and a manual. It’s easier to transport the items to your home, and it’s more fun. Putting the things in a storage unit is the perfect moment to find those manuals. They can be beneficial with disassembling, as sometimes the order of removing the parts is very important.
Start with the fragile parts
Depending on the furniture, some pieces may include parts made of glass or ceramics. Be sure to remove these parts first and pack them safely. Wrap them with a protective wrap or an old blanket or sheets. It’s difficult to replace such parts, so be sure to take good care of them.
Save the little bits
Keep track of all the screws and other small parts that come with the furniture so you can put everything back together when you need it again. Please put it in a plastic back, close it tightly and place it in a safe place or simply tape the bag onto a bigger piece. If you save these items away from their ‘base,’ be sure to label the bag so you can easily find it later. It’s important not to lose anything – replacing the parts after a long time is hard.
Wooden parts need special care, too
Even though you can’t break it easily, wood needs special attention when storing. This is important to protect it from humidity, leaks, scratches, and pests. Be sure to get more information on keeping wooden furniture safe in the storage unit for as long as needed. Proper storing techniques will ensure the items are as good as new the next time you want to use them.
Wooden items need special care to prevent damage.
Get help
If you’re dealing with heavy pieces, it’s best to get someone to help you. Maybe some of your friends have experience with such tasks. However, hiring professionals to help you disassemble and pack the items is the safest way. It’s the easiest method that will protect both your belongings and yourself.
Take your time
Disassembling furniture for storage can take a while. Be sure to pick a day when you don’t have many other things to do, and be patient. Take your time, as rushing can only lead to damage or hurting yourself.
Overall, this Guide to disassembling furniture for storage has emphasized the importance of seeking help from professionals or friends, as well as taking your time to avoid any damages or injuries. Whether you are downsizing, moving, or simply decluttering your space, following these tips can make the process smoother and safer. Don’t hesitate to apply these insights and make the most out of your furniture storage needs.
