7 Of The Most Frequently Asked Questions About Putting Your Household Appliances in Self Storage

If you are planning a move, there is probably a lot on your mind as this can be a stressful time, packing all your belongings and having them moved to a new location. To make this process easier, you can turn to self storage, a service that has become essential for a variety of life events, including relocation, among others. You can send some of your belongings, such as your refrigerator, stove, dryer, and washing machine, ahead and have them put in a storage unit until your arrival.

With self storage being a relatively inexpensive service, your appliances are safe until you can find them a spot in your new home. A climate-controlled unit is ideal for keeping these types of items to prevent any damage caused by oscillating temperatures and humidity. This is especially true in hot and humid regions such as the South. Renting a climate-controlled unit in Dallas costs, on average, $140/month. Moreover, Houston units with the same amenity are even cheaper – $127/month. In Tampa, FL, climate-controlled units’ prices are slightly higher, with a climate-controlled unit 10×10 costing $150/month.

Check out self storage prices in some sought-after cities:

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Now that you know how much self storage costs, you should also know how to store your appliances safely in a storage unit. To help you do that, we have put together a list of frequently asked questions about storing appliances:

1. How do you prepare appliances for storage?

You may begin by creating an inventory list of all the appliances you own and decide which to put in storage to put them in storage, so you know which items you’ll have in your unit. This can also be helpful in case you are filing an insurance claim.

The most crucial step is to clean all appliances properly. Dust, dirt and water must be kept out of all tubes, filters and chambers. This is necessary to avoid mold growth.

Wrap any fragile appliances in bubble wrap, blankets and cardboard boxes before transporting them to the storage facilities to prevent any potential scratches and damage and to make sure they maintain their full functionality. To keep the appliances in excellent condition, you should pack them in their original packaging if you still have them. The packaging is made mainly to protect the items from damage incurred by shaking or accidental drops.

Once all appliances are packed, label each box with its contents and place the stickers in plain sight. Avoid putting sensitive and fragile items on top of large ones.

2. What is the proper way to wrap and store appliances inside a storage unit?

On the way to the storage unit, make sure to tape the doors of the appliances shut to prevent any damage during transportation.

At the storage unit, you should place everything on pallets to allow some ventilation between the floor and the stored items. Place the objects you wish to store near the back or side walls.

For appliances such as the fridge, the stove and the washer, it is best to unwrap them when you are putting them in storage and to leave their doors open to minimize mold growth and unpleasant odors.

3. How do I prepare the washing machine and clothes dryer and dishwasher for storage?

When it comes to washing machines, they need to be carefully cleaned before being stored. The day before you take them to your storage unit, start a wash cycle with hot water, bleach or white vinegar. Next, unplug these appliances and disconnect them from the water supply. Make sure the washer is thoroughly drained and let dry for at least 12 hours.

Do not forget to clean each item outside. Use a cleaning spray and cleaning cloth to wipe the exterior surface. As for your dishwasher, start a cleaning cycle after dissolving 1/2 cup of baking soda in the detergent compartment. Before storing it, make sure it is completely dry.

4. How should I prepare my fridge for storage?

After removing all food from the refrigerator and freezer, defrost if needed and clean it. Wipe down every surface with a cleaning solution to make sure there is no food debris anywhere. Next, vacuum as much dust as possible from the motor, compressor and other components behind the fridge. Within a few days, your fridge will be dry and ready for storage. This extended preparation time is necessary so all the liquid in the refrigerator can drain before storage.

5. How do you store an electric stove?

The stove, like other appliances, should be cleaned inside and out. Before you begin, remember to unplug it from the power source. If it is a gas stove, this step might require support from a professional.

Remove all the pans you might be keeping in the oven. Then, shut the door and press the self-cleaning button. Heat is used to clean the oven at about 880 degrees Fahrenheit. At those high temperatures, dirt and food scraps decompose and become ash residues. After the cleaning cycle, allow the oven to cool and use a damp cloth to wipe away any residue.

At the end, tape and cover the hob knob in protective material during transportation (bubble wrap). The same applies to microwaves.

6. How do you store kitchen appliances in self-storage?

Food debris can attract insects and can cause mold; therefore, all things must be thoroughly cleaned before packing. Pack all items in suitable boxes after they are clean and dry. In the case of small appliances, ensure that all components, wires, and accessories are in one place. Packing materials such as bubble wrap, foam cushions, wrapping paper, and even newspaper can be used. Label boxes containing fragile items and stack them on top of larger appliances in the storage unit.

These are just a few of the most important questions that everyone asks before putting their appliances in a storage unit. What else would you like to know about putting your household appliances in self storage? Let us know in the comments section below.