Make your storage experience more pleasant. Discard or donate items you no longer need before storing rather that when unpacking.

Clothing
Clothing should be clean and packed hanging in wardrobe boxes.  Wool items should be protected during storage with mothballs or cedar chips.

Books
Books should be stored in small boxes, packed flat.  Keep weight to not more than 30 pounds.

Appliances
A refrigerator or freezer should be cleaned and thoroughly dry and stored with its door ajar.  Use the space in appliances for storage.  Stoves and cooking equipment should always be clean.  Bags should be removed from vacuum.

Lawnmowers and power equipment
If storing items with engines, drain all gasoline and oil.

Mattresses and box springs
Plastic covers are available for protection of these items.  If not purchasing covers, store them in their fitted sheets to keep them clean.  Store them on the long edges, elevated off the floor.

Prohibited Items
The following can never be stored - live animals, perishables, liquids, explosives, flammable liquids and fuels, toxic materials, or any item to be deemed to be hazardous, dangerous, toxic or a pollutant under and federal, state, or local law, code, ordinance or regulation.

Label boxes
All boxes should be clearly marked on all sides and the top.  You may choose to number the boxes and keep a master list of all contents.  Color-coding can be used to determine placement when moving.