Furniture Storing: Best Practices and Top 5 Mistakes to Avoid

Storing furniture isn’t as simple as just stacking pieces in a storage unit and calling it a day. Whether you’re moving, renovating, or just making space at home, furniture storing the right way can save you from costly damage. Without proper care, furniture can warp, crack, or even develop mold while in storage.

So, how do you keep your furniture safe? In this guide, we’ll go over the best ways to store furniture and the biggest mistakes people make—so you can avoid them. Plus, if you’re wondering how to store furniture in a storage unit, we’ve got step-by-step tips to help you do it the right way.

Best Practices for Furniture Storing: How to Keep Your Pieces in Great Shape

Whether you’re putting furniture into storage for a few weeks, a few months, or even longer, proper storage techniques can make all the difference in keeping your belongings safe. Furniture is an investment, and if you don’t store it the right way, you could end up dealing with scratches, warping, mold, or even pest damage.

To help you avoid these issues, we’ve put together a detailed guide on how to store furniture properly. Below, we’ll cover the best practices to follow, answer common questions, and explain why each step is important.

1. Pick the Right Storage Unit

Do I Need a Climate-Controlled Unit for Furniture?

If you’re storing furniture for more than a few weeks, a climate-controlled storage unit is highly recommended. These units regulate temperature and humidity, which is critical for keeping your furniture in good condition.

Here’s why climate control matters:

• Prevents warping and cracking – Wood naturally expands and contracts with temperature fluctuations. Over time, this can cause splitting, cracking, or warping. A stable environment keeps wood furniture intact.
• Reduces mold and mildew risks – Fabric, leather, and wood can absorb moisture from humid air. If there’s too much moisture, mold and mildew can develop, leading to unpleasant odors and possible permanent damage.
• Keeps pests away – Certain insects and rodents are attracted to warm, damp, and unprotected spaces. While no storage unit is 100% pest-proof, climate-controlled units tend to have better insulation and sealing, reducing the risk of infestation.

What If I Choose a Standard Storage Unit?

If a climate-controlled unit isn’t an option, you’ll need to take extra precautions to protect your furniture. This includes:

• Using moisture-absorbing products like silica gel packs or desiccants.
• Placing plastic sheeting or wooden pallets under furniture to prevent moisture absorption.
• Covering furniture with breathable fabric instead of plastic wrap to allow air circulation.
• Regularly checking on your storage unit to spot any early signs of moisture damage.

For short-term storage in a dry climate, a standard unit may work. However, for long-term storage or areas with high humidity, climate control is worth the investment.

2. Clean Everything First

Why Is It Important to Clean Furniture Before Storing It?

Many people overlook the cleaning step when putting furniture into storage, but this is one of the biggest mistakes you can make. Dust, dirt, food particles, and even body oils can cause long-term stains, attract pests, and lead to odors if left untreated.

Even if your furniture looks clean, microscopic particles can settle into the material over time. Cleaning everything thoroughly before storage helps prevent damage and keeps your furniture fresh when you take it out.

How to Clean Different Types of Furniture

Wood Furniture:

• Dust and wipe down all wooden surfaces with a mild wood cleaner.
• Apply a small amount of furniture polish to prevent the wood from drying out.
• Avoid using too much water, as excess moisture can cause warping.

Fabric & Upholstery:

• Vacuum upholstered furniture thoroughly, using a crevice tool to reach hidden areas.
• If there are stains, use a fabric-safe stain remover and let the fabric dry completely.
• Spritz with a fabric disinfectant spray to eliminate bacteria and prevent odors.

Leather Furniture:

• Wipe down leather surfaces with a damp cloth and a mild leather cleaner.
• Apply a leather conditioner to keep the material soft and prevent cracking.
• Keep leather away from direct sunlight in storage, as exposure to heat can cause fading and drying.

Metal Surfaces (Table Legs, Hardware, Frames):

• Clean with a soft cloth and mild soap to remove dirt and oils.
• Apply a thin layer of oil (such as WD-40 or mineral oil) to prevent rust from forming.

Most Important Rule: Let Everything Dry Completely

Even a small amount of moisture trapped in fabric, wood, or leather can lead to mold and mildew growth over time. After cleaning, allow furniture to air dry completely before placing it in storage.

3. Take Furniture Apart When Possible

Should I Disassemble Furniture Before Storing It?

Yes! If your furniture can be safely taken apart, disassembling it will save space and reduce the risk of damage during storage. Large furniture pieces tend to have weak points at the joints, which can be stressed if left fully assembled.

What Furniture Should Be Taken Apart?

Tables:

• Remove legs from tables if possible. This prevents them from bending or breaking under pressure.
• Wrap the tabletop separately and store it upright to avoid unnecessary weight on top of it.

Bed Frames:

• Take apart headboards, side rails, and slats to make them easier to store.
• Store all screws and bolts in a labeled bag and tape it to the frame for easy reassembly.

Sofas:

• If the legs can be removed, take them off to prevent snapping or pressure damage.
• Remove cushions and wrap them separately to avoid compression.

Shelving Units & Bookcases:

• If shelves are adjustable, remove them and wrap them separately. This prevents bowing or warping over time.

Pro Tip: Keep Hardware Organized

One of the biggest frustrations when reassembling furniture is losing screws, bolts, or brackets. To avoid this:

• Place all small hardware in labeled plastic bags.
• Tape the bag to the corresponding furniture piece so you can easily find it.
• If taping isn’t an option, keep all labeled bags in a storage box designated for hardware.

Taking the time to disassemble and store furniture properly protects its structural integrity and makes it easier to transport when you’re ready to use it again.

4. Use Covers—But Not Plastic Wrap

Why Shouldn’t I Wrap Furniture in Plastic?

Plastic wrap seems like a convenient way to protect furniture from dust, dirt, and pests, but it can do more harm than good in storage. While plastic can shield surfaces from immediate debris, it also traps moisture, which can lead to mold, mildew, and condensation buildup—especially in humid environments.

If furniture is wrapped too tightly in plastic, any existing moisture—whether from the air, cleaning residue, or humidity—gets locked inside with no way to escape. Over time, this creates the perfect environment for mold growth, which can cause serious damage to wood, fabric, and leather.

Even in climate-controlled storage, plastic wrap isn’t ideal for long-term protection. It can also stick to certain surfaces, leaving behind a residue or causing discoloration on leather, painted finishes, or delicate upholstery.

What Should I Use Instead?

The best way to protect furniture in storage is by using breathable materials that shield it from dust while allowing airflow to prevent trapped moisture. Here are the best options:

• Furniture blankets: Thick, padded blankets specifically designed for furniture storage. These offer excellent protection against scratches and dents while still allowing air circulation.
• Cotton or linen sheets: These work well for covering couches, chairs, and mattresses. Natural fabrics like cotton and linen prevent dust buildup without trapping moisture like plastic does.
• Specialty storage covers: Many storage supply companies sell breathable fabric covers made for sofas, mattresses, and other large furniture pieces. These are a great option for long-term storage.

If you must use plastic for a short-term move or transport, don’t wrap furniture too tightly. Instead, leave small openings for airflow to prevent condensation buildup. Never store furniture long-term in fully sealed plastic.

5. Keep Furniture Off the Floor

Why Is Elevating Furniture Important?

Many people assume furniture can sit directly on the storage unit floor, but this can expose it to serious risks. Concrete floors, even in well-maintained storage facilities, can absorb and retain moisture. Over time, this moisture can seep into wooden furniture, upholstered items, and cardboard boxes, leading to mold growth, warping, and water damage.

In addition, storing furniture directly on the floor makes it more vulnerable to pests. Rodents and insects often hide in dark, undisturbed areas, and if they get into a storage unit, they’re more likely to nest in furniture that sits on the ground.

How to Keep Furniture Off the Floor:

To protect your belongings, always elevate furniture slightly using one of these methods:

• Wooden pallets: One of the best ways to raise furniture off the floor is by using wooden pallets. These create an even surface while allowing airflow beneath your furniture.
• Plastic sheeting or tarps: If pallets aren’t available, laying down a plastic tarp or sheeting can create a barrier between the furniture and any potential moisture from the floor.
• Furniture risers or bricks: Small furniture pieces, like nightstands or chairs, can be elevated using risers or bricks under the legs to keep them from direct floor contact.

Taking the time to keep furniture off the ground may seem like a small step, but it can prevent costly damage in the long run.

6. Stack and Arrange Furniture Smartly

How Should I Arrange My Storage Unit?

A well-organized storage unit is not only easier to access, but it also helps prevent accidental damage. Poorly stacked furniture can shift, fall, or put pressure on delicate pieces, leading to scratches, dents, or even structural damage.

Storage Arrangement Tips:

• Store heavier items on the bottom – Always place sturdy, heavy pieces like dressers, tables, and cabinets at the base of the storage unit. This creates a stable foundation and prevents fragile items from being crushed.
• Keep fragile items upright – Items like mirrors, mattresses, and wooden panels should be stored vertically rather than lying flat. This reduces the risk of warping and makes it easier to retrieve them later.
• Leave space between pieces – Allowing a small gap between furniture pieces improves air circulation and prevents trapped moisture. It also prevents accidental scratches and dents from items rubbing together.
• Create a path for access – If you might need to retrieve items before moving everything out, make sure to leave a walkway so you can access your furniture without having to move everything around.

Stacking and arranging furniture properly reduces the risk of damage and makes your storage space more efficient. Taking an extra few minutes to plan the layout can save a lot of hassle in the future.

7. Check on Your Storage Unit Every Few Months

Why Should I Visit My Storage Unit Regularly?

Out of sight, out of mind—right? Not when it comes to furniture storage. Many people forget about their stored furniture for months or even years, only to discover damage when it’s too late to fix it.

By checking your storage unit every few months, you can catch potential problems early and take action before serious damage occurs.

What to Look for When Checking Your Storage Unit:

• Signs of moisture or leaks: Inspect walls, ceilings, and floors for any signs of dampness. If you notice water stains or condensation, your furniture could be at risk for mold or mildew growth.
• Pests: Look for any signs of rodent droppings, chewed furniture, or insect activity. Even climate-controlled units can occasionally have pest problems.
• Shifting furniture: Over time, furniture can settle or shift, especially if items were stacked too tightly. Check for pressure points, leaning stacks, or anything that looks unstable, and rearrange if needed.

Regular visits allow you to adjust protective covers, add moisture absorbers, or reposition furniture before small issues become major problems.

Furniture storage isn’t just about putting things away and locking the door. To keep your furniture in the best condition, you need to take a few extra steps to protect it from dust, moisture, and damage.

By using breathable covers instead of plastic, keeping furniture off the floor, stacking carefully, and checking in regularly, you can prevent damage and extend the life of your furniture while it’s in storage.

If you’re looking for a secure, climate-controlled storage option, U & Me Moving and Storage offers trusted, professional storage solutions. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help protect your furniture while it’s in storage.

How to Store Furniture in a Storage Unit

If you need a quick rundown on how to store furniture in a storage unit, follow these five steps:

1. Pick a climate-controlled unit to prevent damage from humidity and extreme temperatures.
2. Clean and prep your furniture before putting it in storage.
3. Disassemble large pieces to save space and reduce the risk of breakage.
4. Use breathable covers to keep dust off without trapping moisture.
5. Stack carefully and leave space for airflow to prevent damage over time.

Taking these extra steps ensures your furniture stays in great condition, even if it’s stored for months (or years!).

Top 5 Mistakes People Make When Storing Furniture (and How to Avoid Them)

Storing furniture might seem simple—just put it in a storage unit, close the door, and forget about it until you need it again. But improper storage techniques can lead to costly damage, and many people don’t realize their mistakes until it’s too late.

Even if you follow the basics, small missteps can cause mold growth, warping, pest infestations, or even permanent structural damage to your furniture. To help you keep your belongings in great shape, here are the five most common furniture storage mistakes and how to avoid them.

1. Not Cleaning Furniture Before Storing It

Why Is Cleaning Important?

Skipping the cleaning process before storage might seem harmless, but dirty furniture attracts pests, mold, and bad odors. Even if your furniture looks clean, dust, crumbs, and body oils can settle into fabric, wood, and cracks, leading to long-term damage.

What Happens if You Store Dirty Furniture?

• Dust buildup can lead to discoloration and make surfaces sticky over time.
• Food crumbs and residue attract pests like ants, roaches, and rodents.
• Moisture or spills left untreated can create the perfect conditions for mold and mildew to develop.
• Unclean upholstery can trap bacteria, leading to musty odors that are difficult to remove.

How to Properly Clean Furniture Before Storage:

• Wooden furniture: Wipe down surfaces with a gentle wood cleaner, then apply furniture polish or wax to prevent drying or cracking.
• Upholstered furniture: Vacuum thoroughly, treat stains with fabric-safe cleaner, and let it dry completely.
• Leather furniture: Wipe it down with a leather-safe cleaner and apply a conditioner to keep it from drying out.
• Metal parts: Clean with a mild soap solution and apply a thin layer of oil to prevent rust.

Pro Tip:

Even if your furniture is completely clean, always let it dry for at least 24 hours before storing it to prevent trapped moisture from causing mold.

2. Wrapping Furniture in Plastic

Why Isn’t Plastic Wrap a Good Idea?

Plastic wrap might seem like a great way to protect furniture from dust and dirt, but it actually does more harm than good—especially in humid environments.

The Problem with Plastic Wrap in Storage:

• Traps moisture – If there’s any existing moisture in the furniture, plastic seals it in, leading to mold and mildew growth.
• Prevents airflow – Furniture needs to breathe, especially wood and fabric pieces. Plastic creates a tight barrier that can lead to condensation buildup.
• Can stick to surfaces – Plastic can adhere to leather, wood, or painted furniture, leaving behind residue or even causing damage to finishes.

What Should You Use Instead?

• Furniture blankets – Padded blankets provide protection from scratches and dents while allowing airflow.
• Cotton or linen sheets – These work well for covering sofas, chairs, and mattresses, keeping dust off without trapping moisture.
• Breathable furniture covers – Specialty covers made from fabric allow protection while letting air circulate.

When Can Plastic Be Used?

If you need temporary protection during transport or moving, you can use plastic wrap—but only loosely. Never fully enclose furniture in plastic for long-term storage.

3. Placing Furniture Directly on the Ground

Why Is Keeping Furniture Off the Floor Important?

Many people place furniture directly on the concrete floor of a storage unit, not realizing that concrete absorbs and retains moisture. Over time, this can lead to mildew, warping, and even water damage, especially in humid climates.

What Can Happen If Furniture Sits on the Floor?

• Wood furniture can absorb moisture, causing swelling, warping, and weakening of the structure.
• Fabric-covered furniture may develop mold from moisture seeping in.
• Metal legs or parts can rust if exposed to damp conditions.
• Rodents and insects are more likely to nest in furniture sitting directly on the ground.

How to Keep Furniture Off the Floor:

• Use wooden pallets to raise furniture and allow air to circulate underneath.
• Lay down plastic sheeting or a tarp as a moisture barrier.
• Use furniture risers or bricks under table and chair legs.

This simple step can prevent expensive damage and ensure your furniture stays in great shape.

4. Overcrowding the Storage Space

Why Shouldn’t You Cram Everything In?

Many people try to maximize their storage space by stacking and squeezing as much as possible into the unit. While this might seem efficient, it can actually cause long-term damage to furniture.

What Happens When a Storage Unit Is Overcrowded?

• Furniture can get scratched or dented if items shift or press against each other.
• Cushions and mattresses can become misshapen if they’re compressed under heavy items.
• Poor airflow increases the chances of mold and mildew growth.
• Heavy stacks may collapse, leading to broken furniture or personal injury.

How to Properly Arrange Furniture in Storage:

• Place heavier items at the bottom – Dressers, tables, and cabinets should be on the ground for stability.
• Keep fragile items upright – Mirrors, headboards, and mattresses should stand vertically to prevent bending or warping.
• Leave space between pieces – Small gaps allow airflow and prevent pressure damage.
• Create a path for easy access – If you might need to retrieve items, don’t stack furniture so tightly that you can’t get to it.

A little planning can prevent damage and make it easier to find what you need later.

5. Never Checking on Your Stored Items

Why Should You Visit Your Storage Unit Regularly?

Once furniture is stored, it’s easy to forget about it for months (or even years). But neglecting your storage unit can lead to problems going unnoticed—problems that could have been fixed early if caught in time.

What Can Go Wrong If You Never Check Your Storage?

• Leaky ceilings or moisture buildup can damage furniture beyond repair.
• Pests like rodents or insects may move in, nesting in sofas, mattresses, or wooden furniture.
• Shifting stacks may cause items to tip over, leading to broken furniture or unsafe conditions.

How Often Should You Check Your Storage Unit?

Ideally, visit your unit every few months to look for:

• Signs of moisture on walls, floors, or ceilings.
• Pest droppings or chew marks on furniture.
• Shifting furniture that needs to be reorganized.

Catching problems early means you can take action before they cause irreversible damage.

Avoid These Mistakes for Safer Furniture Storage

Storing furniture the right way takes a little extra effort, but it prevents expensive damage in the long run. Avoid these common mistakes by:

• Cleaning everything before storage to prevent odors and pests.
• Using breathable covers instead of plastic to prevent trapped moisture.
• Keeping furniture off the floor to avoid water damage and mold.
• Leaving space in your storage unit to prevent pressure damage.
• Checking on your storage unit regularly to catch problems before they get worse.

By following these tips, you can keep your furniture in excellent condition and ensure it’s ready to use when you need it again.

Store Your Furniture the Right Way

When it comes to furniture storing, a little preparation goes a long way. By choosing the right storage unit, cleaning and protecting your pieces, and avoiding common mistakes, you can keep your furniture in top shape for as long as needed.

Need a safe and secure place to store your furniture? U & Me Moving and Storage offers climate-controlled storage solutions to protect your belongings. Contact us today to learn more about our storage options!