Because our units are not temperature controlled, you’ll want to pack in a way that lets your furniture breathe while still being protected. Customers store furniture with us all the time. The key is to clean it, protect it, and avoid trapping moisture against wood, fabric, or leather.
We’ve got the supplies on-site (boxes, wrap, blankets, tape, mattress covers, etc.)—details here:
https://severnaofficeandstorage.com/moving-supplies-millersville-maryland/
And if you’re looking for a unit or want help choosing a size, start here:
https://severnaofficeandstorage.com/self-storage-millersville-md/
1) Clean it first (seriously—don’t store crumbs)
Anything left on furniture becomes a long-term roommate.
- Wood: dust, then wipe with a barely damp cloth; let it fully dry. A light furniture polish can help.
- Upholstery: vacuum seams and cushions; spot-clean stains and let dry completely.
- Leather: wipe clean and condition (dry leather cracks faster with temp swings).
- Metal: wipe down and make sure it’s dry to prevent rust.
Rule: If it feels even slightly damp, it’s not ready for storage yet.
2) Disassemble what you can and label the parts
Taking furniture apart reduces damage and makes stacking easier.
- Remove table legs (if possible)
- Take bed frames apart
- Remove sofa feet if they stick out
- Bag all hardware (screws/bolts) and tape the bag to the item
- Label pieces: “Bed frame – headboard bolts” etc.
Pro tip: Take a quick phone photo before taking furniture apart. It can save guesswork when you put everything back together.
3) Protect surfaces from scratches and dents
This is where moving blankets and padding do the heavy lifting.
- Wrap corners and edges (especially wood and glass)
- Put a blanket between stacked items
- Don’t let hard surfaces rub together during the move-in
We stock protective supplies like moving blankets, bubble wrap, paper, and stretch wrap:
https://severnaofficeandstorage.com/moving-supplies-millersville-maryland/
4) Let furniture breathe (non-climate-controlled storage tip #1)
This is the big one.
Use breathable covers when possible
- Use furniture covers, moving blankets, or cotton sheets
- Avoid sealing upholstered items in airtight plastic for months (that’s how you get mildew funk)
If you do use plastic, do it smart
- Use plastic over blankets (blanket first, plastic second)
- Don’t wrap so tight that air can’t circulate at all
- Leave a small gap at the bottom where appropriate
5) Keep everything off the floor (non-climate-controlled storage tip #2)
Temperature changes can lead to condensation. Floors are where moisture risk is highest.
- When possible, place furniture on pallets, wood boards, or even a layer of sturdy cardboard
- Don’t set upholstered furniture directly on concrete.
Even in Maryland, you can store safely—you just want to reduce humidity risk.
- Use moisture absorbers (like DampRid-style products) or desiccant packs
- Replace them periodically if storing long-term
- Avoid storing anything wet (yes, including “it’s mostly dry” rugs)
For general mold prevention guidance, the EPA has solid tips:
https://www.epa.gov/mold/mold-course-chapter-2
7) Store the unit like a Tetris wizard (airflow edition)
How you stack matters.
- Leave a small air gap between items and the walls
- Don’t block everything in with a solid “wall” of stuff—air pockets help
- Store couches and mattresses upright only if they’re designed for it (some foam mattresses can deform)
Best practice layout
- Heavy/sturdy items in back (dressers, wood tables)
- Softer items (chairs, cushions) protected and elevated
- Keep a small aisle so you can reach things without chaos
8) Special furniture situations
Wood furniture:
- Avoid direct plastic contact long-term (trap moisture)
- Use blankets/paper on surfaces, especially polished wood
Upholstered furniture:
- Breathable cover + elevation is your best combo
- Add moisture absorber nearby (not touching fabric)
Mattresses:
- Use a mattress bag/cover
- Store flat when possible; keep off floor
Appliances stored with furniture:
- Clean/dry completely
- Leave doors slightly ajar (prevents odors/mold)
Quick checklist before you lock up
- ✅ Everything cleaned and totally dry
- ✅ Disassembled items labeled, hardware bagged and taped on
- ✅ Blankets/padding on corners and surfaces
- ✅ Furniture elevated off the floor
- ✅ Moisture absorbers placed in unit
- ✅ Small airflow gaps left around items
Need supplies or help picking a unit?
Moving supplies info (what we stock):
https://severnaofficeandstorage.com/moving-supplies-millersville-maryland/
Storage units info:
https://severnaofficeandstorage.com/self-storage-millersville-md/
Contact us (call/email):
https://severnaofficeandstorage.com/contact-us/
Home (storage + offices + U-Haul):
https://severnaofficeandstorage.com/