Whether you acquired antique furniture at an auction or from a family member, there can come a time when it takes up too much space in your home. In this case, you might consider renting a storage unit. However, this type of belonging needs proper preparation before it gets put away for an extended period. Here's how to keep it in excellent condition until you need it again.

How to Properly Store Antique Furniture

1. Clean and Polish

Dusting furniture before placing it in a storage unit prevents degradation caused by particles working into the wood or other material. For a deeper cleaning without causing damage, use a damp—not wet—cloth. Once the antique piece is dry, apply polish if it consists of wood or leather. This extra step protects the material against temperature fluctuation-related cracking.

2. Dissemble What You Can

In some cases, you can carefully take apart antique furniture without losing its resale value. Separately wrapping pieces is a space-saving technique that helps when storing large or bulky furnishings. Table and chair legs, headboards, and desk and bureau drawers are among the parts that are easy to remove and pack.

3. Wrap Furniture Correctly

Although protective cushioning materials are valuable for fragile items like mirrors, they don't suit wooden furniture. Plastic can trap moisture and let it accumulate, leading to mold growth and causing your antique piece to warp.

Keep moisture-sensitive furnishings in good condition by wrapping them with breathable packing materials, such as blankets, old sheets, or fabric covers. If you remove any screws, put them in plastic bags and attach pictures to remind you what piece it belongs to.

4. Refrain From Stacking

While stacking furniture in the unit can be a tempting method of saving space, it puts too much pressure on the underlying pieces. Rather than dealing with cracked and broken-off belongings, arrange them individually on pallets. This approach is another protective measure, as the furnishings are not in direct contact with the ground.

Free up space in your home and keep antique furnishings safe at Ship Creek Storage in Anchorage, AK. This locally owned and operated company has security cameras throughout the facility and provides storage units in various sizes to ensure you find one that meets your needs. Call (907) 276-4107 today with questions, and learn more about their offerings online.