When moving into self storage at U Lock It, think about the following:
Make sure everything is COMPLETELY dry
Our containers at U Lock It are insulated and ventilated, however there will always be a small risk of mould or condensation forming because storage containers are tightly sealed by design. You can help to prevent this by making sure everything you put in there is completely bone-dry. Even if something feels dry, e.g. fabric, it can still hold moisture or spores, so take care to make sure it really is. This applies in particular to:
- Fishing and/or camping gear
- Outdoor furniture, garden tools, fence panels, etc
- Appliances such as washing machines, dishwashers, fridges, freezers, etc
- Items that have been previously stored in a shed, garage, or attic
- Soft furnishings such as sofas, armchairs, mattresses, clothing, curtains
Check the container is clean and dry before you begin storing, and don’t move goods in or out of your container during wet weather.
Let the storage unit breathe
It can be tempting to rent the smallest possible container and then pack and stack your goods close together. However it’s important to let air circulate, which reduces the risk of condensation and protects against extreme temperature changes affecting your items. Make sure to:
- Keep items away from the container walls and ceilings
- Leave gaps between items
- Store appliances with the doors slightly ajar
- Leave a ‘corridor’ – both for air circulation, and so that you can easily access items at the back
- Visit regularly to open the container doors and allow fresh air to circulate
- If harsh weather is forecast, consider temporarily removing items which may be particularly affected by severe temperatures
Pack things safely in boxes
- Use brand new, sturdy boxes
- Label the contents of the boxes on all sides, and the top
- Consider creating a numbered index of each box and its contents so you can find things easily
- Don’t overfill or underfill boxes, as they will be dangerous to lift and carry.
- Fill space with newspaper, bubble wrap, or packing peanuts
Dismantle, wrap and cover things
- Cover furniture and mattresses during transit and whilst in storage
- Wrap items individually to protect them from getting broken or scratched
- Shrink wrap can help to protect items from temperature changes
- Store wool and fabric with mothballs
- Clothing can be stored in wardrobe boxes or garment bags, but use completely plastic hangers as metal can rust
- Dismantle large furniture, keep the screws and fittings in a clearly-labelled bag
- Remove cables from electrical items, then use coloured stickers to label the item and its corresponding cable(s)
- Carefully wrap mirrors and pictures and store them standing up, not lying flat
Pest control
Our sites are regularly serviced, and there is generally very little pest activity. However some pests can sneak through very small gaps so bear this in mind. Before you store, make sure you:
- Check your items and boxes for surprise visitors! Especially if they’ve previously been stored in a loft, garage or shed
- Don’t store food or other perishable goods
- Fully clean out cupboards, drawers, boxes, crockery etc to make sure there are no leftover crumbs
If you spot any problems with your unit, e.g. a leak in the roof after heavy rain, condensation that looks to be seeping from a neighbouring container, etc, please contact U Lock It immediately.