Guide to preparing furniture and mattresses for self storage
Last updated: August 29, 2026
Protecting wooden dressers, leather sofas, dining tables, and mattresses requires proper cleaning, breathable covers, and keeping items elevated off concrete floors.
How should I prepare wooden furniture and dressers for storage?
Clean all wooden surfaces with a dedicated wood cleaner and apply a light coat of furniture polish before packing. Disassemble table legs and remove drawer hardware where possible to save space. Always elevate wooden furniture off concrete floors using wooden pallets and cover items with breathable cotton sheets.
What is the best way to store a mattress and box spring?
Clean and dry the mattress thoroughly, then place it inside a heavy-duty fabric mattress bag. Store mattresses flat on top of wooden pallets or raised platform rows rather than standing them upright on edge, which causes internal springs and padding to sag over extended periods of time.
Specific furniture preparation guidelines
Couches and Upholstered Sofas
Vacuum all cushions and fabric folds to remove crumbs and dust before storing. Treat leather seating with a leather conditioner to prevent drying. Wrap upholstered couches in canvas moving blankets rather than plastic film so trapped moisture can evaporate naturally.
Wooden Dressers and Cabinets
Empty drawers completely and clean interior wood panels. Leave drawers slightly cracked open inside the dresser shell to maintain airflow. Place cardboard or foam corner protectors on fine cabinetry to prevent dings during transport.
Dining Tables and Chairs
Unbolt table legs where design allows and store legs wrapped together under the tabletop. Stack dining chairs seat-to-seat with cloth padding between them to maximize vertical space inside your unit.