If you've decided to join the throng of homeowners who've traded their large homes for a tiny one, you might be trying to figure out what to do with everything you no longer have room for. Don't worry. You don't have to get rid of it. All you have to do is rent a personal storage unit. Renting a storage unit will allow you keep your personal belongings, without cluttering up your downsized home. Before you start packing up your belongings, it's a good idea to make sure it's done correctly. Here's a step-by-step guide that will help you pack your belongings properly.
Family Photographs
If you're going to be storing family photographs, you'll want to protect them against moisture and extreme temperatures. When storing photo albums, place tissue paper between each page. The tissue will prevent moisture buildup and will keep the pages from sticking together. All photographs - whether individual or in albums – should be stored inside acid-free containers. The acid-free containers will protect your valuable photographs.
Home Furniture
If you've got pieces of home furniture that you want to put into storage, you'll want to take some extra precautions to prevent damage. The first thing you should do is place plastic sheeting on the floor of the storage unit. The plastic will prevent moisture buildup that could damage your furniture. It's also a good idea to cover your furniture with padded coverings. If you don't have actual furniture covers, you can use old blankets or comforters. If you're going to be storing mirrors, you can protect the glass by taping a sheet of cardboard to the surface of the glass.
Electronic Devices
Electronic devices require special handling during storage. Moisture, dust and extreme temperatures can damage the electronic wiring. To protect your electronic devices, you'll need to take the following precautions. Disconnect your equipment and wipe them down with a soft cloth to remove dust. Place your equipment into their original boxes and place packing peanuts around them. The peanuts will prevent the equipment from moving around during transport. If you don't have the original packaging, place them in a box of similar size.
If you're going to be downsizing, you're going to need a place to store everything you won't be taking with you. Don't throw your treasured possessions away. Rent a storage unit. The tips provided here will help you pack your belongings so they'll stay safe while in storage. For more information, contact companies like Gorst Self Storage.