Refrigerators and freezers should be dry and stored with doors slightly open. Some goods can be stored inside large appliances to save room. Stack boxes on top of stoves and refrigerators. Make sure all appliances are clean before they are stored.
Make sure gasoline is kept to a minimum inside motorized vehicles. They must be in working order with no leakage on floor.
Bedding, clothing, and linens:
Clothing, curtains and linens should be stored on hangers. Wardrobe boxes are a good idea to keep clothing clean and dust-free. Also, the use of dressers and cedar chests make great storage.
Dishes and glassware:
Place a layer of packing inside bottom and at the top of boxes containing glassware. All glass items should be individually wrapped, nesting cups and bowls together. Label all boxes containing glassware and do not place heavy items on boxes containing glassware.
Place a pallet, flat cardboard mat or plastic sheet on the floor and stand sofas and mattresses on end to maximize storage space. Disassemble beds and tables and wrap table legs in plastic. Keep upholstery off the floor. Stack lightweight chairs “seat to seat”. Also, use light cotton or plastic dust covers on furniture to keep dust down.
Save original cartons for delicate ornaments and pad ornaments with packing paper or newspaper. Wrap strings of lights around a piece of cardboard before placing in cartons filled with packing material. Don’t store candles or anything easily damaged by extreme heat.
Pack your storage space carefully:
Pack and stack carefully. This will minimize the amount of space you will need and will prevent damage. Place frequently used items near the door and valuables to the rear of the unit. Pack heavy items in small boxes to make them easier to carry and place them on the bottom of stacks to prevent damage.