Antiques can be beautiful, valuable, and meaningful possessions, but they also require special care and attention when it comes to storage. Whether you're moving to a new home, downsizing, or simply need to free up some space in your house, a storage unit can be a convenient and safe place to keep your antiques. However, before you pack up your precious items, it's essential to prepare them properly to ensure they remain in excellent condition for years to come. In this blog post, we'll share some tips and advice on preparing your antiques for storage in a storage unit and what to do once the times are stored.
Clean and dust your antiques thoroughly
Before storing your antiques in a storage unit, it's essential to clean and dust them thoroughly. This will not only help prevent dirt and dust from settling on them while they're in storage, but it will also give you the opportunity to inspect them for any damage or wear that might require repairs. Use a soft cloth or brush to gently remove any dirt or dust, and avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that could damage the surface of your antiques. If you're unsure about how to clean a specific item, consult with a professional antique restorer or conservator for advice.
Wrap and protect your antiques with the proper materials
To keep your antiques safe and protected during storage, it's essential to use the suitable materials for wrapping and packing them. Use acid-free tissue paper or bubble wrap to wrap delicate items such as glassware, ceramics, and porcelain, and use padded covers or blankets to cover larger items such as furniture or sculptures. Be sure to use packing tape that won't leave any residue, and never wrap an antique in newspaper or other non-acid-free materials that could cause discoloration or staining over time.
Consider climate-controlled storage
Antiques are often made from sensitive materials that can be affected by changes in temperature, humidity, and light. To ensure that your antiques remain in good condition while in storage, it's a good idea to consider renting a climate-controlled storage unit. These units are designed to maintain a steady temperature and humidity level, protecting your antiques from damage caused by fluctuations in the environment. In addition, climate-controlled units often have low-light conditions that help preserve the colors and finishes of your antiques.
Label and organize your storage unit
As you prepare your antiques for storage, be sure to label each item clearly and keep an inventory of everything you're storing. This will help you keep track of your antiques and ensure that nothing is misplaced or lost. In addition, organizing your storage unit with shelving, boxes, and labels will help prevent damage to your antiques from being piled on top of one another or knocked over.
Check on your antiques periodically
Even if you've taken all the necessary precautions to prepare your antiques for storage, it's a good idea to check on them periodically while they're in storage. This will allow you to see if any damage or wear has occurred and address it immediately before it becomes a bigger problem. It's also an excellent opportunity to make sure that your antiques remain adequately wrapped and protected and to adjust the placement of items if necessary.
Antiques can be cherished possessions that provide beauty and value to your home, but they require special care and attention when it comes to storage. Whether you're storing antiques temporarily or long-term, it's essential to take the necessary steps to prepare them for storage properly. To learn more about the available storage options available for your antiques, contact Tysons Self Storage today. We can help you keep your antiques safe for years to come.
