How to Store Furniture in a Storage Unit: The Complete Guide

Whether you’re moving, downsizing, renovating, or simply decluttering, storing furniture in a self storage unit is one of the best ways to protect your belongings and free up space. But furniture isn’t like boxes or décor — it requires special care and preparation to keep it in great condition, especially for long-term storage.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about how to store furniture in a storage unit — from cleaning and wrapping to arranging and protecting your pieces for the long haul.

Step 1: Choose the Right Type of Storage Unit

Before you move any furniture in, it’s important to pick the right type of storage space.

Climate-Controlled Units

If you’re storing wood, leather, or upholstered furniture — or anything valuable or antique — a climate-controlled unit is the best choice.
These units maintain a consistent temperature and humidity level year-round, protecting furniture from:

• Cracking, warping, and splitting (common in wood)

• Mold and mildew (in upholstery or fabrics)

• Rust and corrosion (on metal components)

• Fading and brittleness (in leather and delicate materials)

Drive-Up Units

If you’re storing for a shorter term or need easy access for larger items, drive-up storage is convenient and efficient. You can pull your vehicle right up to the door to load and unload furniture easily.

At 10 Federal Storage, many of our facilities offer both climate-controlled and drive-up access units, so you can choose what fits your furniture and your timeline best.

Step 2: Clean and Prep All Furniture Before Storage

Dirt, dust, and moisture are your furniture’s biggest enemies in storage. Cleaning everything before you store it helps prevent long-term damage, stains, and odor.

• Wood Furniture: Wipe clean with a mild cleaner and polish with furniture wax or oil to create a moisture barrier.

• Upholstered Items: Vacuum thoroughly and use fabric-safe cleaners on any stains. Let dry completely before wrapping.

• Leather Furniture: Clean and condition the leather to prevent cracking or stiffness.

• Metal Parts: Wipe with a dry cloth and a touch of oil to prevent rust.

• Glass or Mirrors: Clean and cover with bubble wrap or soft padding.

Always make sure items are completely dry before wrapping or storing — even small amounts of moisture can cause mold and mildew in a closed space.

Step 3: Disassemble Large Furniture Pieces

Large items like beds, dining tables, and shelving units are easier to move — and less likely to be damaged — when disassembled.

• Remove table legs, headboards, and bed frames where possible.

• Store screws, bolts, and small parts in labeled plastic bags and tape them securely to the main piece.

• Wrap disassembled parts (like table legs) together with moving blankets or bubble wrap.

• Stack flat pieces vertically against the wall to save floor space.

Disassembling furniture not only makes transport easier, but it also prevents unnecessary pressure on joints and corners while stored.

Step 4: Wrap and Protect Every Piece

Proper wrapping is essential for protecting your furniture from scratches, dents, and dust.

• Use moving blankets or padded covers — not plastic tarps, which trap moisture.

• Wrap upholstered pieces in breathable fabric or cotton sheets.

• Cover wood furniture with blankets or furniture pads to avoid scuffing.

• Protect glass or mirrors with cardboard corner protectors and bubble wrap.

• Secure drawers and doors with painter’s tape or stretch wrap to keep them from swinging open during transport.

Avoid over-tight wrapping — allow for airflow around items to prevent condensation or trapped moisture.

Step 5: Elevate Furniture Off the Floor

Even in well-maintained storage facilities, it’s best practice to keep furniture slightly off the ground to prevent accidental scuffs, dust buildup, or moisture exposure.

Use pallets, rubber mats, or wooden blocks to:

• Elevate large pieces like dressers or couches.

• Improve air circulation underneath items.

• Protect delicate legs and frames from scratches.

This simple step provides an extra layer of protection for long-term storage.

Step 6: Organize Furniture Strategically Inside the Unit

How you arrange your furniture in the unit can make a big difference in both protection and convenience.

Here’s the best way to organize your space:

1. Start with the heaviest pieces. Place sofas, dressers, and tables along the back wall.

2. Store mattresses and tabletops vertically. This saves space and prevents bending or warping.

3. Stack boxes on sturdy surfaces. Avoid stacking anything on fragile furniture or glass.

4. Leave a walkway. Always create an aisle down the middle so you can access items without unloading everything.

5. Keep frequently used pieces near the front. If you might need an item before others, store it closer to the door.

A thoughtful layout not only protects your items but also makes retrieving them easier when the time comes.

Step 7: Maintain and Check Periodically

If your furniture will be stored long-term, plan to check on your unit every few months.

During each visit:

• Inspect for any signs of moisture or pests.

• Wipe dust off exposed surfaces.

• Adjust covers or padding as needed.

• Confirm your furniture remains stable and free from pressure marks.

Periodic check-ins help catch small issues early before they turn into costly damage.

Step 8: Avoid Common Furniture Storage Mistakes

Even the best storage space can’t compensate for improper packing. Avoid these frequent missteps:

• Using plastic wrap directly on wood or leather — it traps moisture.

• Storing furniture dirty or damp — this invites mold and mildew.

• Stacking heavy boxes on fragile furniture — causes dents or structural damage.

• Forgetting to label or group disassembled parts — makes reassembly difficult.

• Pushing furniture too close to walls — restricts airflow and can lead to trapped humidity.

A few extra minutes of careful planning will keep your furniture looking as good as the day it went in.

Why Choose 10 Federal Storage for Furniture Storage

When it comes to storing furniture safely, 10 Federal Storage provides the clean, secure, and convenient environment you need. Our modern facilities are designed to protect your belongings while keeping your storage experience stress-free.

You’ll enjoy:

• Climate-controlled storage options to protect sensitive furniture

• Drive-up access units for easy loading and unloading

• 24/7 gated entry and video surveillance for peace of mind

• Online rentals and bill pay for convenience

• Flexible month-to-month leases with no long-term commitment

Whether you’re storing a single sofa or an entire household’s worth of furniture, 10 Federal Storage offers reliable, affordable solutions to fit your needs.

Find The Best Storage Unit For Your Furniture

Storing furniture the right way ensures it stays beautiful, clean, and damage-free for as long as you need it put away. From choosing the right unit type to wrapping, elevating, and organizing each piece, a little preparation goes a long way toward preserving your investment.

When you’re ready to find the perfect home for your furniture, 10 Federal Storage has you covered. Rent with us today to find a secure, modern storage facility near you — and start storing with confidence.