By Sheldon Storage — 8 years guarding treasures, 4,200+ clients served, 0 losses due to improper storage conditions
Your belongings are in good hands!
I've been watching over people's possessions since 2017. In that time, I've seen everything arrive at my doors—furniture, electronics, family heirlooms, entire households waiting for their next chapter.
And I've learned something important: how you prepare your belongings before storage matters just as much as the storage facility itself.
The items that arrive properly prepared leave in the same condition they came in—even years later. The items that arrive unprepared? Well, let's just say I've seen preventable damage that breaks my heart.
Let me share what I've learned so your treasures stay protected.
I keep watch, so you can live your life!
Why Preparation Matters
Storage isn't just about finding space. It's about preservation.
When your belongings sit in storage—whether for two weeks or two years—they face potential challenges:
- Moisture and humidity can cause mold, mildew, and warping
- Dust accumulation can damage electronics and fabrics
- Temperature fluctuations can affect wood, leather, and certain materials
- Improper positioning can cause permanent creases, dents, or deformation
- Pest attraction from food residue or organic materials
The good news? Almost all storage damage is preventable with proper preparation.
General Preparation Principles
Before we get into specific items, here are the universal rules:
1. Clean Everything Before Storage
This is non-negotiable. Dirt, food residue, and organic matter attract pests and can cause staining or degradation over time.
- Furniture: Dust and wipe down all surfaces
- Appliances: Clean inside and out, ensure completely dry
- Fabrics: Wash or dry clean before packing
- Electronics: Wipe down, remove dust from vents
2. Ensure Everything Is Completely Dry
Moisture is storage's greatest enemy. Even small amounts of dampness can lead to:
- Mold and mildew growth
- Wood warping and swelling
- Metal rust and corrosion
- Fabric damage and odors
Wait 24-48 hours after cleaning before packing to ensure items are thoroughly dry.
3. Use Appropriate Protective Materials
Different items need different protection:
| Material | Best For | Avoid For |
|---|---|---|
| Moving blankets | Furniture, large items | N/A |
| Breathable covers | Upholstery, mattresses | N/A |
| Plastic wrap | Drawers (to keep closed) | Wood furniture (traps moisture) |
| Bubble wrap | Fragile items, electronics | Long-term fabric storage |
| Cardboard boxes | General items | Direct ground contact |
4. Never Store Directly on the Floor
Even in the best facilities, floors can transfer cold and moisture. Always use:
- Pallets
- Wooden boards
- Plastic sheeting with pallets on top
- Shelving units
Room-by-Room Preparation Guide
Living Room Items
Upholstered Furniture (Sofas, Chairs)
- Vacuum thoroughly, including under cushions
- Treat any stains before storage
- Cover with breathable furniture covers (not plastic)
- Remove legs if possible to save space and prevent breakage
- Store cushions separately in breathable bags
Wood Furniture (Tables, Shelves, Cabinets)
- Dust and clean with appropriate wood cleaner
- Apply furniture polish for added protection
- Wrap in moving blankets, not plastic
- Protect corners with cardboard or foam
- Store upright when possible
Pro tip: Plastic wrap on wood traps moisture and can damage the finish. Always use breathable materials.
Electronics (TVs, Sound Systems)
- Dust thoroughly, especially vents and ports
- Use original boxes if available (they're designed for protection)
- If no original box, wrap in anti-static material first, then bubble wrap
- Label cables and store them with the device
- Remove batteries to prevent leakage and corrosion
Bedroom Items
Mattresses
- Vacuum both sides thoroughly
- Allow to air out for several hours
- Use a breathable mattress storage bag (not plastic)
- Store flat if possible, or on its side against a wall
- Never fold a mattress—it damages the internal structure
Clothing and Textiles
- Wash or dry clean everything before storage
- Ensure completely dry (crucial!)
- Use breathable garment bags for hanging items
- Fold heavy items like sweaters (hanging stretches them)
- Add cedar blocks or sachets for natural pest deterrence
- Avoid plastic bags for long-term storage (no airflow)
Kitchen Items
Appliances (Refrigerator, Dishwasher, Washer/Dryer)
- Clean thoroughly inside and out
- Defrost completely (refrigerator/freezer)
- Dry all surfaces and leave doors slightly open during transport
- Tape doors shut for transport, then prop open in storage
- Store upright (never lay a refrigerator on its side)
Cookware and Dishes
My colleague Scotty McBox is the expert here, but the basics:
- Clean and dry thoroughly
- Wrap each piece individually
- Use china boxes for fragile items
- Pack plates vertically (they're stronger that way)
- Fill all gaps to prevent shifting
Items You Should NOT Store
Some items don't belong in storage facilities—and some should never leave your personal possession.
Keep With You (Never Store or Pack for Movers):
These irreplaceable items should travel with you personally:
| Category | Items |
|---|---|
| Identity Documents | Passport, birth certificate, Social Security/SIN card, citizenship papers |
| Legal Documents | Wills, deeds, titles, marriage/divorce certificates, adoption papers |
| Financial Documents | Tax records, insurance policies, bank statements, investment documents |
| Valuables | Cash, jewelry, precious stones, gold, silver, coins |
| Sentimental Irreplaceables | Family photos, heirlooms, inherited items |
| Medical | Prescription medications, medical records, health cards |
| Electronics with Data | Laptops, hard drives, phones (back up data first) |
Why? These items cannot be replaced if lost or damaged. No insurance policy can restore your grandmother's ring or your passport. Keep them in your personal vehicle or carry-on during a move.
Hazardous Materials (Prohibited from Moving & Storage):
These items are dangerous to transport and store. Most are prohibited by law:
Flammable Liquids:
- Gasoline, diesel fuel
- Kerosene, lighter fluid
- Cooking oils (vegetable oil, olive oil, etc.)
- Motor oil, transmission fluid, brake fluid
- Paint thinner, turpentine, solvents
- Nail polish remover (acetone)
Pressurized Containers:
- Propane tanks (any size)
- Oxygen cylinders
- Aerosol cans (hairspray, spray paint, WD-40)
- Fire extinguishers
- Scuba tanks
Corrosive & Toxic Chemicals:
- Bleach, ammonia
- Drain cleaners, oven cleaners
- Pool chemicals (chlorine, acid)
- Pesticides, herbicides, fertilizers
- Muriatic acid
- Car batteries (acid)
Explosives & Ammunition:
- Fireworks
- Ammunition of any kind
- Flares
- Gunpowder
Other Prohibited Items:
- Paints and stains (oil-based)
- Matches and lighters
- Charcoal and lighter fluid
- Automotive fluids (antifreeze, windshield washer fluid)
- Household batteries (especially lithium-ion)
- Cleaning products containing harsh chemicals
Perishable Items:
| Category | Items | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Food | Fresh, frozen, refrigerated, opened packages | Spoils, attracts pests, causes odors |
| Plants | Live plants, fresh flowers | Die without light/water, may carry pests |
| Pet supplies | Wet food, treats | Same as food items |
Living Things:
This should go without saying, but:
- No pets
- No plants
- No aquariums with fish
- No terrariums with animals
What To Do With Prohibited Items:
Before your move or storage date:
- Use them up: Cleaning supplies, cooking oils, automotive fluids
- Give them away: Neighbors, friends, community groups
- Donate: Unopened non-perishables to food banks
- Dispose properly: Hazardous waste collection days, recycling centers
- Sell: Valuable items you won't need at new location
Contact your municipality for hazardous waste disposal locations and schedules. Most cities have regular collection days for paints, chemicals, and automotive fluids.
Store With Caution:
These items are allowed but require special consideration:
- Photographs: Consider digitizing as backup; use acid-free storage
- Wine: Requires specific temperature and humidity control
- Candles: Can melt or warp in temperature fluctuations
- Medications: Check expiration dates; temperature sensitivity
- Furs and leather: Need breathable covers, climate consideration
Creating an Inventory
Before anything goes into storage, create an inventory. Trust me—after 8 years of watching people forget what they stored, this step is essential.
Simple Inventory System:
- Number each box clearly on multiple sides
- List contents for each numbered box
- Take photos of valuable items
- Keep a master list (digital backup recommended)
- Note condition of furniture and fragile items
This inventory will save you hours when you need to find something—or when you're unpacking months later and can't remember what's in each box.
Duration-Specific Tips
Short-Term Storage (Under 3 Months)
- Standard preparation is usually sufficient
- Plastic covers acceptable for most items
- Less concern about long-term moisture issues
- Good for moves with timing gaps, renovations, staging
Medium-Term Storage (3-12 Months)
- All standard preparation steps apply
- Use breathable covers instead of plastic
- Consider adding desiccant packets in boxes
- Check on items periodically if possible
Long-Term Storage (Over 1 Year)
- Maximum preparation required
- Breathable materials only
- Climate considerations become critical
- Regular check-ins recommended (quarterly if possible)
- Update inventory with any changes
Working With Professional Movers
At Pro Action Transport, we offer full-service storage solutions:
What we provide:
- Secure, monitored storage facility
- Professional packing services (ask for Scotty!)
- Proper handling and placement
- Coordination with local moves (Rusty) and long-distance transport (Le Grand Peate)
- Transit storage for interprovincial moves
I've worked alongside Rusty since 2017 and with Le Grand Peate on countless cross-Canada transits. When your belongings travel through our network, they're protected every step of the way.
Quick Preparation Checklist
1 Week Before Storage:
- ☐ Sort items: keep, store, donate, discard
- ☐ Gather packing supplies
- ☐ Begin cleaning items for storage
- ☐ Start washing textiles and clothing
- ☐ Create inventory system
2-3 Days Before:
- ☐ Finish cleaning all items
- ☐ Allow cleaned items to dry completely
- ☐ Begin wrapping and packing
- ☐ Disassemble furniture if needed
- ☐ Photograph valuable items
Day Before:
- ☐ Complete all packing
- ☐ Finalize inventory list
- ☐ Label all boxes clearly
- ☐ Prepare items for transport
- ☐ Confirm storage arrangements
Your Belongings Deserve the Best
After 8 years and over 4,200 clients, I can tell you this: the time you invest in proper preparation pays off when you retrieve your items in perfect condition.
Whether you're storing for a few weeks during a renovation or a few years during a life transition, your belongings are someone's treasures. Treat them that way.
And remember—I never forget. Every item that comes through my doors has a story, and I take that responsibility seriously.
Your belongings are in good hands!
Need storage solutions for your move? Let's talk.
Call us: 514-266-1239
Sheldon Storage — Rusty's Chronicle
Since 2017 • 4,200+ clients served • 0 losses due to storage conditions
"I keep watch, so you can live your life!"