Whether you have recently enlisted in the military, moved overseas, or simply need a safe place to store additional business inventory, the rental of a long-term storage unit may be just what you need. However, it is important that you take care with packing your personal belongings for long-term storage. If you fail to do this, you may return to your storage unit to find your belongings in less-than-perfect condition. Here are three packing tips to ensure that your items are ready for long-term storage.

Tip #1: Seal All Clothing and Fabrics

Exposed clothing and fabrics are at risk of damage from dust, mold, and moth larvae. Prior to placing clothes, sheets, and other fabrics in plastic containers with lids, make sure that they are all washed thoroughly.

If you store dirty clothing, your storage unit will have uninvited insects because the insects will be attracted to dirty clothes. Later on, you will find it difficult to get the odors and stains out of your clothes. In addition to tightly sealing your clean clothes and fabrics in plastic containers, throw in a few cedar balls for an extra layer of protection from moths and musty smells.

Tip #2: Clean Furnishings Thoroughly

You may dust and vacuum your home on a regular basis, but it is still important that you vacuum all furnishings just before placing them in long-term storage to ensure that any and all lingering dust and debris has been removed.

Wood furniture needs to be polished before storing it to help seal it against mold. Once you have your furniture in the storage unit, make sure that any upholstery is covered with a sheet, as this will help protect the fibers from dust getting trapped.

Tip #3: Avoid Plastic Bags

When storing your items, the worst mistake you could make is storing them inside plastic bags. While plastic containers are fine, as well as sturdy cardboard boxes, plastic bags can cause a buildup of humidity and moisture, resulting in the perfect breeding environment for mold and mildew.

In the event that you need some additional padding for some of your belongings, such as individual glassware, dishes, trophies, and statues, use newspaper or bubble wrap.

Long-term storage can be a life-saver, but it is important that you pack your belongings to ensure that you come back to them the way that you left them. For more information, reach out to a local long-term storage facility.