Whether you’re storing your furniture short term during a move or long term to clear out space, protecting it properly is key. At Bolt Storage, we make self storage simple and stress free, and that includes helping you keep your furniture in great shape.
Here’s everything you need to know to make sure your couches, tables, beds, and chairs stay clean, safe, and damage-free while in storage.
Why You Should Protect Your Furniture in Storage
Furniture is an investment, and even a few months in storage can cause:
- Scratches, dents, or broken legs from poor stacking
- Mold, mildew, or smells from trapped moisture
- Fading or discoloration from temperature swings
- Dust buildup that’s tough to clean
A few simple steps can save you time and money later.
Furniture Items You Should Always Protect
- Couches and sectionals
- Mattresses and bed frames
- Dining tables and chairs
- Dressers and nightstands
- Coffee tables, bookshelves, and desks
Step-by-Step: How to Prepare Your Furniture for Storage
1. Clean everything first
Dirt or crumbs can turn into stains or attract pests.
- Use a vacuum for fabric furniture
- Wipe down wood and hard surfaces with a mild cleaner
- Let everything dry fully to avoid trapped moisture
2. Take it apart when possible
- Remove table legs, shelves, and bed frames
- Store screws and bolts in a labeled bag
- This saves space and prevents damage during moving
3. Use furniture covers or blankets
- Plastic covers trap moisture — use cloth covers or moving blankets instead
- Avoid wrapping furniture too tightly
4. Protect corners and fragile parts
- Use bubble wrap or cardboard on sharp edges and fragile pieces
5. Elevate furniture off the floor
- Use pallets or blocks to lift items in case of spills or moisture on the ground
Choose the Right Storage Environment
For wood, leather, or fabric furniture, climate-controlled storage is best. It helps prevent:
- Warping or cracking (especially in wood)
- Mold or mildew (especially in humid areas)
- Temperature damage to leather and fabrics
At Bolt Storage, many of our locations offer climate-controlled units designed for exactly this.
Bonus Tip: Don’t Stack Heavy Items on Top
We know it’s tempting to save space, but stacking boxes on your couch or table can leave dents, warps, or even break things. If you must stack, use sturdy plastic bins and avoid placing anything on top of soft surfaces like cushions or mattresses.
Storing Furniture? Bolt Makes It Easy.
With over 60+ locations across 12 states, Bolt Storage offers clean, secure, and affordable units for any size furniture. Rent online in minutes or give our team a call — we’re here to help.
FAQs About Storing Furniture
Q: Can I store furniture without climate control?
A: You can, but we recommend climate-controlled units for long-term storage or delicate materials like wood and leather.
Q: Is it okay to use plastic wrap on furniture?
A: It’s fine for short-term protection, but plastic traps moisture. For long-term storage, use cloth covers or moving blankets instead.
Q: What size storage unit do I need for a one-bedroom apartment’s worth of furniture?
A: A 10x10 unit is usually enough, but you can use our unit size guide or ask our team.
Final Thoughts
Protecting your furniture is easy when you know what to do, and Bolt Storage is here to help at every step. Clean it, cover it, choose the right unit, and avoid common mistakes.
Need storage today? Find a location near you and move in instantly.
