Storing your couch properly can keep it in great condition for years. Follow these easy tips to ensure your furniture stays safe and sound in storage.
Clean Your Couch Thoroughly
We use our couches for everything – sitting, sleeping, eating, and even as a pet bed. Before storing it, make sure to clean it well to prevent mold, dust, and damage.
- Fabric Sofas: Check if your upholstery needs a water-based or solvent-based cleaner. Generally, natural fibers like cotton shouldn’t be cleaned with water, while synthetic fibers can handle it. This helps extend the life of your couch.
- Leather Sofas: Use a few drops of olive oil on a microfiber cloth to clean and condition the leather. Rub it in a circular motion.
- Important: Ensure the couch is completely dry before putting it in storage.
Choose the Right Storage Unit Size
Picking the right storage unit is crucial. Too small a unit can damage your couch.
- Measure your couch’s length, width, and height.
- For small to medium-sized couches (like loveseats or standard three-seaters), a 5×10 ft or 5×15 ft unit is usually enough.
- For larger couches or sectionals, consider at least a 10×10 ft unit. You might need a 10×15 ft or 10×20 ft unit for extra space.
- Tip: Remember to account for protective padding and extra room for moving furniture.
Protect Your Couch During Storage
- Before Storage: Disassemble parts of the couch if possible to avoid damage during transport. Keep screws, washers, and legs together in a bag.
- During Storage: Cover the couch with sheets or drop cloths to protect it from dust and moisture. Avoid using plastic covers, as they can trap moisture and cause mold.
Use Temperature-Controlled Storage
Couches are designed to last indoors, not in garages or sheds. Temperature-controlled storage units can keep the temperature and humidity levels stable, protecting your couch from moisture, extreme temperatures, and humidity.
Keep Your Couch Off the Ground
Even in secure storage units, accidents like flooding or spills can happen. Elevate your couch using pallets, bricks, or a tarp to avoid potential damage from water or dirt.
Taking these steps will help ensure your couch remains clean and in good shape while in storage. It may take some effort, but your favorite sofa will be ready and waiting for you when you need it again.