Household Appliances:
It is best to ensure all appliances are completely cleaned out and dry. Leave the door ajar on refrigerators, freezers and ovens to prevent mould and bacteria growing on the inside.
Washing machines
Drain the water from hoses, coil loosely and tape to the back of the machine.
Hard furniture
Dismantle tables and bed frames as much as possible. If the legs come off, remove them. Put screws and any other bits and pieces in a snap lock bag and tape to the furniture for safe keeping. Water beds should be completely drained, and stored with the bungs up.
Soft Furniture
While plastic coverings are great for protecting furniture during transit, they can cause mould and mildew on upholstered furniture and mattresses during long-term storage. Alternatively, use a sheet or moving blanket to protect your furniture. Stack chairs with cloth or paper in between. Stand sofas and mattresses on end wherever possible to save space. Try not to stack too much on top of soft furnishings.
Leather
Treat leather items with a leather conditioner before you store them.
Wooden Furniture
Spray your wood furniture with a good quality furniture spray before storing for added protection.
China/Breakables
Wrap each item in newspaper and pack in a sturdy box with a lid. Once you have placed all items into a box, roll up balls of newspaper and pack into any gaps. Does it pass the ‘wiggle’ test? If things are still rattling around, pack with more newspaper.
Clothes
Think about buying a portable wardrobe or clothes box – you’ll then be able to simply hang the clothes in them and they’ll keep their shape and allow for a little air flow.