how do you store furniture in a basement

Tips to Safe Furniture Storage in the Basement

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What is the best way to store items in a basement?

In the basement, store everything in clear plastic bins, labeled and not packed too heavily. Make sure you can lift the boxes easily; if they happen to tumble over, they shouldn't be heavy enough to hurt anyone. If possible, try to store your items up off the ground to protect them in case the basement does flood.

Can you store wood furniture in a basement?

The basement is not the ideal place to store wood furniture but if you must, then it's important to keep a couple pointers in mind. Elevate furniture by placing cinder blocks or planking under furniture legs. That way, you'll have time to remove furniture to safety in the event of a flood.

How do you store furniture when moving house?

Place padded covers or blankets over furniture to protect it during the move and guard it against scratches or damage in a storage bin. Wrap wood furniture and upholstered furnishings with plastic wrap or shrink wrap. Use masking tape to secure the plastic, making sure that the tape doesn't adhere to the furniture.

Should furniture be stored in a storage area?

No matter where you decide to store your furniture, it’s essential to take steps to keep it in good condition and maximize your space both around your home and in your storage area.

How to store furniture in a storage area?

Why cover furniture when you put it in storage?

Why do we need furniture covers?

How to store large pieces of furniture?

Why do people use storage units?

What is the best way to wrap and load furniture?

How to keep unneeded furniture in your home?

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Can you store wooden furniture in the basement?

Wooden Furniture Don't store them in the attic, garage, or basement. Humidity and heat can cause the wood to mildew, mold, expand, and crack.

How do you store things in a damp basement?

How to store things in a damp basement. If your basement gets damp: Invest in mold-proof storage containers to store anything that might attract moisture, including books and clothing. In addition to the tips above: Clothes: Keep extra or seasonal clothing in sealed containers off the basement floor, if possible.

What should not be stored in a basement?

Furniture and décor made from natural materials. Wood and upholstered furniture don't belong in the attic, basement, or garage. ... Important papers. ... Food (unless you store it carefully) ... Electronics. ... Candles. ... Anything flammable (near heat sources)

How do you store wooden chairs in the basement?

Keep It Covered. Many people make the mistake of covering wood furniture with plastic, but doing so can create condensation and cause the wood to swell. Instead, cover your furniture with cloths, furniture pads or moving blankets to shield it from light, moisture and dust.

Can I store furniture in the basement?

If your basement is damp, but you don't have another option for storage, you can store furniture in there as long as you take precautions. Make sure to place furniture on plastic sheets or pallets and keep it away from walls. You should also inspect the furniture regularly for water damage or pest problems.

How do I create storage in my basement?

Check out our basement bedroom ideas gallery too.Install sturdy open shelving. (Image credit: Ikea) ... Always store in airtight containers. ... Label your storage boxes. ... Add in clothes rails too. ... Discover the joys of pegboard. ... Create a fold away work space. ... Use a trolley as a portable DIY trolley. ... Get some smart bike storage.More items...•

How do you store a couch in the basement?

Avoid Humidity and Water If you're keeping your couch in a basement, make sure to store it on blocks to avoid any water damage. You'll also want to avoid storing your sofa in a humid environment.

Should you store wood in your basement?

Benefits of Storing Your Firewood Indoors Dry wood burns cleaner and more efficiently than wet wood, which means you get more heat and your chimney stays cleaner. By storing wood in a dry, protected place like a basement, we're keeping our wood in ideal condition for burning. It's also really convenient.

Is it better to store clothes in the attic or basement?

Storing items in your attic is far more preferable than storing them in the basement or garage where they may get wet from flooding and are exposed to the elements. Use the attic to store anything that is impervious to heat. Heat can damage items such as photographs and wood.

Can wood furniture be stored in the cold?

Cold weather and fluctuating temperatures are particularly bad for wood furniture. The wood material contains a certain amount of water, making it pliable. This leads wooden furniture to expand when hot and contract when cold. After enough expansions and contractions, your furniture can start warping.

How do you protect furniture from storage in mice?

Wrap Furniture In Plastic If you're storing any upholstered furniture in your unit that won't fit into storage boxes, be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic. This will help ensure that rodents can't damage the fabric by clawing or gnawing, and, as an added plus, it will help keep your furniture protected from moths.

How do I maximize my basement space?

How to Maximize Space in Your Basement or Lower LevelMake a Second Kitchen. Why have just 1 kitchen when you could have 2? ... Maximize Seating and Bar Area Use. ... Add Floating Shelves. ... Add Seating Options Wherever Possible. ... Use a Sectional Sofa. ... Go Smaller Scale. ... Add Ceiling-Height Cabinetry. ... Create an Open-Concept.More items...

Can you store canned goods in a damp basement?

Storing canned food in the right space is also important. You need to find a space in your home that's out of direct heat and sunlight, and that's dry and cool. A root cellar or cool, dry basement is the ideal spot for storing canned food.

How do you store things in a damp garage?

Store items with moisture-repelling desiccators, like silica gel packs or charcoal filters. Don't put anything directly on the concrete floor (it can cause moisture to build up since it's porous). Cardboard boxes are especially susceptible to problems. Stack on top of a pallet instead, which helps with air flow.

Can clothes be stored in basement?

The best conditions for clothing storage are cool, dark, and dry. Depending on your climate, the attic or garage may not be the best option because of extreme heat. If you're using a basement, make sure it's not prone to flooding or excessive moisture.

How do you keep moisture out of storage totes?

How To Keep Moisture Out Of Storage BoxesClean and dry items before storing. It is extremely important to make sure that your items are clean and dry before storing them away. ... Pack desiccators in your containers. ... Consider airflow. ... Try a climate-controlled unit.

Can you keep plastic wrap on furniture in stor - Movers.com

I got a bunch of wrestling DVDs in a rubbermaid container how can when I move properly pack them so they dont damage or move around. Asked Andrew Dellorfano, on June 26, 2013

How to keep tools in the garage?

Any handyman knows it’s important to keep tools well-organized and accessible. Pegboards are a mainstay of garage and basement workshops (and convenient to boot) but there's a catch. Metal tools left hanging a damp basement are just asking for rust. When storing tools in the open, first protect them with a coat of machine oil to repel moisture. Otherwise, keep your wrenches, hammers, and drivers locked up in the toolbox where they'll be protected from the elements.

What is the enemy of long term storage?

The number one enemy of long term storage is moisture. Damp conditions invite rust, mold, mildew, and a musty smell that clings to upholstery and textiles. To keep your gear in its best condition, run a dehumidifier in the basement to pull moisture from the air.

What is a pulley hoist?

A pulley hoist, with or without shelving, is relatively easy to install and will save your shoulders and back lots of wear and te ar. After that, it's a cinch to pull the bike out of storage —no ladder necessary. Photo: harborfreight.com.

What to use for a basement playroom?

For finished basements, a combination of baskets or bins—from wicker to fabric to plastic— are ideal for a basement playroom or craft room.

How to store wood furniture in basement?

The basement is not the ideal place to store wood furniture but if you must, then it's important to keep a couple pointers in mind. Elevate furniture by placing cinder blocks or planking under furniture legs. That way, you'll have time to remove furniture to safety in the event of a flood. Covering furniture can help it from getting scratched or soiled, but avoid never plastic cloths which can trap moisture, causing wood to swell and warp.

Can stairs be converted to storage?

If you're short on storage space, look below the stairs. Some staircases can be easily converted to hold built-in storage units. This allows you to carve out some valuable square footage for stashing kids' playthings, gym equipment, or craft supplies.

Can you cover furniture in a flood?

That way, you'll have time to remove furniture to safety in the event of a flood. Covering furniture can help it from getting scratched or soiled, but avoid never plastic cloths which can trap moisture, causing wood to swell and warp. Photo: fotosearch.com.

What happens if your basement doesn't flood?

Don’t store anything directly on the floor. Even if your basement doesn’t flood, the items may absorb moisture from the concrete and even develop mold growth. Needless to say, if the basement does flood, forget about saving whatever was on the floor.

What happens if you have moisture in your basement?

If you have a moisture problem in your basement, it may lead to metal parts rusting, wood – rotting and fabrics – molding. If possible, hang or suspend small furniture; if not – wrap the parts that come in contact with the floor. As a Maryland basement waterproofing company, we’ve seen plenty of flooded basements and damaged possessions.

How to store items that are moldy?

Store items in airtight bags or containers. Everything that fits into a bag or a container should be kept in one. This is especially important for fabrics if you don’t want them to absorb that stuffy musty smell. It will also help keeping mold, pests and other small insects away. Rodents can eat through plastic, but you should notice the hole soon enough if you are inspecting your items regularly, which leads us to the next point

What happens if my basement is not waterproofed?

If you have an unfinished basement that hasn’t been properly waterproofed, you are endangering the precious possessions stored in there. If your basement has flooded before, it most likely will flood again, and if it hasn’t – it doesn’t mean it’s safe. It often takes just one big storm to overflow your gutters and turn your basement ...

Can rodents eat plastic?

Rodents can eat through plastic, but you should notice the hole soon enough if you are inspecting your items regularly, which leads us to the next point. Examine your basement regularly. Just come down there and walk around your shelving units looking for any signs of rodents, mold or water damage.

Can a basement be turned into a swimming pool?

It often takes just one big storm to overflow your gutters and turn your basement into a swimming pool. At Guardian Basement Waterproofing, we strongly recommend to get your basement inspected and waterproofed even if there’s no sign of trouble. And while you are deciding, follow these basement storage tips to keep your items safe.

Can you store stuffed animals in the basement?

Avoid storing anything of great value in the basement if it’s affected by water and humidity. Your mom’s wedding dress, your first stuffed animal – the better you care, the longer they’ll last. To save yourself disappointment, keep the most precious items above ground where you can always see them and know they are safe.

What to store in closet in May?

There's no need, however, to use precious closet space in May on your holiday tree or fall centerpiece. Kitchen supplies: Store pots and pans you rarely use but need to hold on to, like a heavy-duty roasting pan. Also store items such as ceramics, plates, and dish sets for entertaining, unless you frequently entertain.

What is a project bin?

Project bins: Store items together that you use at the same time for projects, including outdoor entertaining and crafting. Again, this will depend on if you craft once every few months, or if it's a daily pastime. Travel items: This includes suitcases, duffel bags, and garment bags.

How to store things in basement?

In the basement, store everything in clear plastic bins, labeled and not packed too heavily. Make sure you can lift the boxes easily; if they happen to tumble over, they shouldn't be heavy enough to hurt anyone. If possible, try to store your items up off the ground to protect them in case the basement does flood.

How big of a hole do mice need?

Mice only need a quarter inch gap or a hole the size of a dime to squeeze inside your basement. And mice love to chew on everything from food packages to valuable keepsakes (not to mention wiring and insulation).

Can you store old photos in the basement?

For those reasons, don't store anything in the basement that can fall victim to the elements. Photographs: If you take the time to store old photos correctly, you can safely store photos in either of these spaces. If not, they could be ruined.

Can you lift a box that tumbles over?

Make sure you can lift the boxes easily; if they happen to tumble over, they shouldn't be heavy enough to hurt anyone. If possible, try to store your items up off the ground to protect them in case the basement does flood.

Is a basement climate controlled?

Basements by design are not climate-controlled. They usually aren't even insulated, which means that their temperatures soar in the summer and plummet in the winter. Plus, even the cleanest, most well-maintained homes are known to have a visit from an insect or mouse every once in a while.

How to protect furniture from rodents?

Use masking tape to secure the plastic, making sure that the tape doesn't adhere to the furniture. Apply double layers of plastic sheeting to furniture if the unit isn't climate-controlled. Plastic sheeting or shrink wrap also protects your furniture from wood-burrowing insects and rodents.

How to protect silverware from fog?

Wrap the items in plastic sheeting or shrink wrap to protect them from dust, heat and arid conditions. Store silverware in its original box. Protect furniture, electronics and metal accessories by moisture-proofing the storage unit. In areas where fog is likely to occur, a moisture barrier is essential.

How to store wood furniture?

Disassemble wooden furniture to reduce the likelihood of damage. Remove table legs, headboards and footboards. Store the screws in labeled baggies, so reassembly is quick and easy . Clean and wax wood furniture to provide extra moisture in a storage unit that isn't climate-controlled. Store belongings in wooden dresser drawers and place a cloth over the items to reduce dust. Remove the drawers from the dresser and store them separately if space permits. Place wood en furnishings away from the door in case rain seeps in.

Why do you need to wrap furniture?

Packaging and storing furniture is often necessary when purchasing real estate that requires you to move to a new location. If your furniture is stored for more than a few weeks in a facility without climate control, you must carefully wrap the items to ensure their longevity. Wood furniture dries out, musical instruments deteriorate, fabrics fade and electronics fail when exposed to extremely cold or hot temperatures. Careful packaging preserves and protects your belongings.

What to cover a self storage unit with?

In areas where fog is likely to occur, a moisture barrier is essential. Guide to Self Storage recommends covering the floor of the storage unit with plastic sheeting. Cover furniture with additional blankets and furniture pads to protect it against moisture damage, mold, mildew and water stains.

How to keep furniture from raining?

Place wooden furnishings away from the door in case rain seeps in. Clean fabric sofas, chairs and mattresses before storing to reduce the possibility of mold or mildew. Wipe the surface with an antibacterial cleaner that is safe for fabrics.

How to store electronics in a box?

Store electronics and televisions in their original packaging. Wrap cords in bubble wrap and store them along with electronic devices in the original packaging. Fill empty spaces in each box with bubble wrap or foam peanuts to provide a barrier between the electronic device and other stored items. Keep electronics off the floor of the storage unit to guard against moisture.

How to store furniture in a storage area?

Disassemble everything you can. One common mistake people make when storing furniture is to simply throw it into the storage area as-is, not realizing that they can break them down and strategically arrange their parts to be less obtrusive. Most tables, beds, cabinets and lamps can and should be dismantled whenever possible. In many cases, you can as much as double your storage potential by breaking your furniture down into its smallest form first.

Why cover furniture when you put it in storage?

Covering all major pieces of furniture as soon as you put them into storage can keep them from undergoing drastic changes in temperature and limit the amount of moisture or dryness they’re being exposed to . This will be especially important for wood and other organic items, as well as metals that can rust or tarnish.

Why do we need furniture covers?

Furniture covers also prevent dust from settling on items that are in storage for long periods of time . It’s usually best not to completely seal items in plastic, as escaping moisture can become trapped and cause mildew. ...

How to store large pieces of furniture?

Store large pieces vertically. Turn sofas, mattresses and long, low cabinets on their ends and stand them up around the edge of the storage space. Fit the upright furniture close together to reserve valuable territory for broad, heavy and oddly-shaped pieces on the floor.

Why do people use storage units?

Storage units will be useful for people who want to keep a lot of furniture in one place. You’ll continue to rack up fees the longer you keep your furniture in storage, so it may benefit you financially to come up with a long-term plan for your pieces.

What is the best way to wrap and load furniture?

Wrap and load furniture cautiously on the way to and from its place of storage.

How to keep unneeded furniture in your home?

Rent a storage unit. If you don’t have enough room in your home to keep unneeded furniture, or if you need to get it out of the way in the long term, your best bet will be to secure a dedicated storage unit. Commercial units come in various sizes, allowing you to choose a space that best suits your needs, and usually come equipped with other features like climate-controlled spaces and sometimes even damage insurance.