How to Store Kitchenware in Self-Storage
Packing kitchenware for storage typically requires a bit more care and planning than other items around the house. This is mostly due to the number of fragile dishware in the kitchen, like plates, glasses, mugs and more. But by following these tips and using the recommended supplies and packing techniques, you can effectively pack and store your kitchenware in self-storage with a peace of mind.
1. Organize Your Kitchenware
Start by organizing your kitchenware. Pull everything out and divide it into categories, like fragile items, plastic items, silverware and utensils, pots and pans and so on. This prepares your kitchenware for packing and helps you avoid a headache when you need to pull a specific item out of storage later.
2. Clean Your Kitchenware
Most importantly, make sure that all items are clean before packing them away. Food residue can attract unwanted guests, grow mold/mildew, and introduce moisture into your unit and belongings. Wash and dry all items before they go into your storage boxes or bins.
3. Label & Protect Fragile Kitchenware
Protecting your fragile kitchenware comes down to using the right packing supplies and implementing the right packing techniques. Start by acquiring these basic supplies for protecting dishware in storage:
- Enviro-Bubble® Box
- Newspaper/packing paper
- Foam cushions
Use bubble cushion for especially fragile kitchenware like fine china. Not only does bubble cushion provide padding, it also minimizes shifting in the box. Individually wrap each piece and place it in the box side by side and upright. Do not place plates flat into a box, as the weight over time can damage the lower dishes. For extra protection, place a single layer of foam cushion in between pieces of china.
Common household glassware can be individually wrapped in a thinner material, like newspaper or packing paper. Crumple extra sheets of packing paper and place the wads in the hollow areas of glasses and mugs for added protection, then secure with tape.
When all your boxes are packaged, make sure to label them with fragile, so professional movers or friends and family helping you move take extra care and avoid damaging your belongings.
4. Use Specialty Boxes
Invest in specialty boxes available at U-Haul centers, dealers and affiliates nationwide. These items are designed to specifically store, organize, and protect difficult items to pack such as glasses, dishes, etc.
Glass Pack Kit
The Glass Pack Kit is ideal for storing wine glasses, crystal and other tall, fragile glassware. The kit features a seven-piece cardboard cell-divider that keeps glassware upright and isolated while in storage. Also included are 18 foam pouches.
Dish Saver Kit
The Dish Saver packing kit can be used with everything including plate settings and seasonal décor. The kit comes with 32 foam pouches and a five-piece cell-divider that separates and isolates fragile items.
5. Packing Small Appliances
When packing your small electric appliances, keep all cords, accessories, etc. together. This ensures that when it’s time to re-assemble them, you don’t have to go digging through your items to find them. Protect items that have glass by adding newspaper or packing paper in hollow areas, and adding bubble cushion to the box as well to prevent them from breaking.
6. Packing Large Household Appliances
If you are planning on storing an oven, microwave, or refrigerator in storage, make sure you wipe it down and remove any food residue. In addition, make sure all loose items are secured inside and are stored upright while in storage. Use plastic wrap to wrap your fridge or oven, to prevent doors from unexpectedly opening.
7. Store Kitchenware Near the Front
We recommend placing your kitchenware near the front (close to the door) of your self-storage unit on move-in day. Pack these items last, giving you easier access should you need any of your kitchenware at any time. Not to mention these are generally the most fragile items and will need to be placed on top of other items to avoid getting broken.
8. Choose the Proper Storage Unit
When storing glassware, either an indoor or outdoor storage unit is recommended. However, if your kitchenware contains electronics (coffeemaker, microwave, toaster, etc.), opt for an indoor unit to avoid temperature and humidity related damage. If you don’t have small or large appliance, you can opt for an outside drive up storage unit, depending on your access needs.
Looking for self-storage in your area? Find a self-storage facility near you today and make U-Haul your Storage Place.