A Stress-Free Guide to Storing Your Belongings
Packing away your home is a bittersweet task—saying goodbye to treasured items while tackling the challenge of getting everything organised. But with a little planning, you can store your belongings securely and make setting-up a breeze. Here are some practical tips to keep your items safe and in great condition for years to come!
Common Storage Challenges—and How to Fix Them
Before we get into the nitty-gritty of how to store your homeware, let's address some challenges most of us face when packing away items.
Corrosion from Idle Time
Whether it’s your delicate crockery or electrical cables, some items are prone to corrosion when sitting in storage. The fix? Store decorations in a dry, cool location to prevent exposure to moisture and fluctuating temperatures. Using airtight containers can also help protect metal items from rust and deterioration.
Missing or Faulty Decorations
Ever dug out your Christmas lights the next season only to find half the strand doesn’t work? A common pitfall is not testing electronics displays before storing them. Always inspect and test any new items you buy in the midst of packing for your new home. This will save you from frustration when it’s time to unpack.
Disorganised Chaos
If your homewares are jumbled, tangled, broken, and/or misplaced, it’s time for new storage strategies. An organised system saves you time, frustration, and money (no more buying items you already own but can’t find!).
Step 1: Invest in the Right Storage
The first step to perfection is finding the right storage containers.
- Use Durable Bins
Invest in 84-liter Really Useful Tubs or similar sturdy storage bins. Not only are these durable and stackable, but they are also clear, making it easier to see what’s inside without having to open each one. Label them by category—kitchen, living room, bedroom—for quick identification.
- Protect Fragile Ornaments
Cups and crockery are often the most delicate. Wrap each item in tissue paper, bubble wrap, or place them in dividers inside the bin to avoid chipped China or breaking.
Step 2: Location Matters
Where you store your belongings is just as important as how you store them.
Look for spaces that are cool, dry, and free from pests. Avoid storing in attics or basements prone to extreme temperature swings or dampness. A wardrobe or garage shelf is often the safest choice for keeping your items in tip-top shape.
Step 3: Don’t Forget to Prep Items Before Storing
Before packing your items, give everything a quick inspection.
- Check for Wear and Tear
Replace batteries in electronic items or remove them completely to avoid corrosion over long-term storage.
- Dust Off Decorations
A quick clean will prevent dust build-up and keep items looking fresh for when you need them.
Step 4: Take Advantage of Sales
Make time to stock up on discounted items for your home, who doesn't love a bargain? However, don’t wait until unpacking to test these items—check electronics and any mechanical items now. It’s much easier to handle returns or repairs immediately than to find out they’re faulty later down the line.
Step 5: Maintain Order
A simple inventory checklist can be a game-changer for storing your belongings. Note what you have and where it’s stored, so you’re not left digging through piles when it's time to unpack.
A Little Organisation Now, a Lot Less Stress Later
With these tips, storing your homewares doesn’t have to be a daunting task. Taking the time to organise properly will protect your items, save you time, and keep you stress-free.
Need help setting up a better storage system? A set of 84-liter Really Useful Tubs is a great place to start—durable, stackable, and perfect for keeping your treasures safe.
Here’s to making your move smooth - happy storing!