The Ultimate Guide to Appliance Storage: Tips and Tricks
When it comes to appliance storage, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure that your appliances stay in good condition and are ready for use when you need them. Whether you’re storing appliances during a move, remodeling, or simply need extra space at home, here are some tips and tricks for appliance storage.
Clean and Prepare the Appliance
Before storing your appliance, make sure it is clean and dry. Any leftover moisture or food residue can attract pests and cause damage over time. Be sure to remove any shelves, drawers, or other removable parts and clean them separately. Once everything is dry, reassemble the appliance and tape the doors shut with painter’s tape or masking tape to prevent them from accidentally opening during transport or storage.
Choose the Right Storage Space
When selecting a storage unit for your appliances, consider factors such as size, temperature, and humidity. If you’re storing appliances for a short time, a regular unit may suffice. However, for long-term storage, it’s recommended to choose a climate-controlled unit to protect your appliances from extreme temperatures and humidity. Make sure to measure the dimensions of your appliance to ensure it will fit in the unit and still leave enough room for you to move around.
Use the Right Packing Materials
When storing appliances, it’s important to use the right packing materials to prevent damage. Bubble wrap, foam, and packing peanuts are great for protecting delicate parts such as knobs, handles, and glass doors. Use cardboard or plastic wrap to protect the appliance’s finish from scratches or dents during transport or storage. It’s also a good idea to use furniture sliders to move heavy appliances without scratching the floor or damaging the appliance.
Store Appliances Vertically
When storing appliances, it’s best to store them vertically, especially for refrigerators and freezers. Storing them upright helps prevent damage to the compressor and other internal components. For smaller appliances such as microwaves or blenders, store them on a shelf or table to keep them off the ground.
Keep Cords and Manuals Together
When disassembling and cleaning appliances, be sure to keep the cords and manuals together in a labeled plastic bag. This will make it easier to reassemble the appliance when you need it again. If you have multiple appliances to store, it’s a good idea to label each bag with the name of the appliance for easy identification.
Maintain Appliances in Storage
Even when appliances are not in use, they still require some maintenance to keep them in good condition. For example, it’s a good idea to open the doors of refrigerators and freezers every few months to prevent moisture buildup. You may also want to dust or wipe down appliances to prevent dirt and dust from accumulating.
With these tips and tricks, you can safely store your appliances and keep them in good condition until you need them again. Remember to clean and prepare appliances before storage, choose the right storage space, use the right packing materials, store appliances vertically, keep cords and manuals together, and maintain appliances in storage. Happy storing!
The advice on this website is provided as a courtesy for informational purposes only.