How to Store Wooden & Upholstered Furniture: Expert Tips

Whether you’re downsizing, renovating, relocating, or simply creating more space at home, properly storing wooden and upholstered furniture is critical for preserving its value and integrity.

Without careful preparation and the right storage environment, even high-quality furniture can suffer permanent damage. Cracks, warping, mold, mildew, pest infestations, and faded fabrics are common consequences of improper storage.

With the right techniques and thoughtful planning, however, your furniture can remain in excellent condition even after extended time in storage.

Preparing Furniture for Storage

Measuring and Planning

Start by measuring each item. Knowing the height, width, and depth of your furniture allows you to plan how you’ll transport it and determine the right size unit—whether you’re using self storage or warehouse storage. Measurements also come in handy later if you’re moving into a new home and need to ensure everything fits through doors and stairwells. Taking note of these dimensions now helps avoid logistical surprises later.

Cleaning Thoroughly

Cleanliness is essential before placing anything in storage. For wooden furniture, use a mild soap and water solution to gently remove dirt and dust. For tougher grime, a homemade solution of vinegar and olive oil works well for polishing and conditioning. Be sure not to saturate the wood—wipe it dry quickly. For upholstered furniture, vacuum thoroughly using an upholstery attachment. Treat any stains with fabric-safe cleaners, and consider steam cleaning for a deeper refresh. Always ensure upholstered pieces are completely dry before storage to prevent mold or mildew from forming.

Conditioning Wood Surfaces

Wood is especially vulnerable to dry environments and fluctuating humidity. After cleaning, apply a high-quality furniture polish or wax to nourish and seal the wood. This creates a barrier against moisture, dust, and temperature swings. Wax or polish also helps maintain a healthy sheen, preventing the wood from becoming brittle over time.

Disassembling Furniture

Large furniture should be taken apart when possible. Remove legs from tables and sofas, detach cushions, and pull drawers out of dressers. Not only does this make transport easier and reduce strain on the joints, but it also prevents breakage during handling. Keep all screws, bolts, and small parts together in labeled plastic bags and tape them securely to the underside of the relevant furniture. Wrap all detached parts in soft cloth or moving blankets.

Covering and Protecting

Plastic wrap may seem like a go-to, but it’s often a mistake. It can trap moisture against wood or upholstery, which encourages mold growth and warping. Instead, use breathable materials like cotton sheets, muslin, canvas drop cloths, or professional moving blankets. These allow airflow while still protecting against dust and debris. For fragile surfaces or decorative trim, consider adding a light layer of bubble wrap underneath the cloth.

Transporting With Caution

Much of the damage to furniture happens during transport. Use furniture sliders, dollies, and proper lifting techniques. If moving alone, enlist help to avoid injury or dropping heavy items. Ensure walkways are clear, and protect corners and floors during the move. If you’re using a moving truck, load larger pieces first and secure them with straps to prevent shifting during the drive.

Best Practices for Storing Furniture

Climate-Controlled Environments

Heat, cold, and especially humidity are major risks. Without climate control, wood can contract or swell, leading to cracks and loose joints. Upholstery can absorb moisture, resulting in odors, mildew, and permanent staining. Self storage and warehouse storage facilities that offer temperature and humidity regulation are ideal. Look for units that maintain consistent conditions year-round, particularly in areas with harsh seasonal shifts.

Pest Prevention

Pests such as termites, silverfish, and rodents pose serious threats to stored furniture. Protect your items by using wood polishes that repel insects and by ensuring all upholstery is free of food crumbs or organic debris. Adding cedar blocks or natural repellents like lavender or peppermint sachets inside the storage unit can help deter unwanted critters. If you’re storing furniture long-term, periodic inspection is recommended.

Avoiding Stacking

It may be tempting to stack furniture to save space, but this often causes more harm than good. Placing one item atop another can result in dents, broken legs, or fabric impressions that won’t come out. If stacking is absolutely necessary, limit it to sturdy, flat-bottomed pieces and separate each layer with padding or blankets to distribute weight evenly. Never place heavy items on top of delicate pieces.

Elevating From the Floor

Basements, garages, and non-climate-controlled storage spaces can be affected by moisture, especially through concrete floors. Elevate your furniture with pallets, wooden blocks, or storage risers to create airflow beneath the items and minimize contact with any water that might seep in. Even in well-maintained storage facilities, it’s a good practice to use a plastic tarp or drop cloth on the floor as a moisture barrier.

Spacing for Ventilation

Airflow is critical to prevent condensation and mold. Don’t cram your storage unit wall-to-wall. Leave at least a few inches between each item and between the furniture and the walls. Not only does this improve ventilation, but it also makes it easier to inspect and retrieve items if needed. Design your layout so frequently accessed items are near the front.

Choosing the Right Type of Storage

Garage or Shed

These areas may offer free and immediate access, but they are typically exposed to temperature changes, humidity, and pests. They’re rarely insulated or sealed well, and furniture stored here for more than a few weeks often shows signs of wear or moisture damage. Use them only for temporary storage and avoid placing high-value or upholstered items here.

Basement

A finished basement with climate control and good insulation can be a viable option. However, many basements are prone to leaks, condensation, or mold. If you choose this route, elevate all items and consider a dehumidifier to manage humidity. Be especially careful during rainy seasons or snowmelt.

Attic

Attics typically lack climate control and have poor accessibility, especially when it comes to moving large, heavy furniture up steep stairs. Summer heat and winter cold can be extreme, and ventilation is often limited. Only store small, durable pieces for short periods here.

Warehouse Storage

Warehouse storage offers a full-service solution. Trained professionals handle the pickup, packing, and storing of your furniture in secure, climate-controlled warehouses. These facilities typically include surveillance, inventory management, and limited public access, making them ideal for long-term storage of valuable or sensitive items. This option is best if you’re relocating, traveling, or need someone else to manage the logistics.

Roadway Moving also offers full-service warehouse storage, where every item is handled with precision and stored in a clean, secure environment. Pickup and delivery are managed entirely by their expert team, making the process completely hands-off for you.

Self Storage

Self storage offers flexibility and convenience. You transport and arrange your items yourself, and you can access the unit whenever needed. Look for self storage facilities that provide climate control, pest prevention measures, and solid security. With unit sizes ranging from small lockers to garage-sized spaces, self storage is suitable for short- or medium-term needs, such as during a move, remodel, or seasonal transition.

Special Considerations for Different Woods

Pine is a softwood commonly used in beds, bookshelves, and decorative furniture. It’s light and easy to work with, but highly susceptible to dents, scratches, and moisture-related warping. Use gentle handling and make sure the storage area has controlled humidity.

Oak is a dense, durable hardwood with a distinct grain. While relatively resistant to damage, oak can dry out over time. Apply a penetrating oil finish or wood conditioner before storage to maintain its resilience and luster.

Mahogany is a luxurious wood known for its rich color and smooth grain. It’s more delicate when it comes to humidity and pest exposure, so it must be sealed well and stored in tightly controlled conditions. A climate-controlled warehouse or self storage unit is highly recommended.

Cedar naturally repels insects and has a pleasant scent, making it ideal for chests, closets, and wardrobes. However, it can still shrink or swell with moisture fluctuations. Sand and recondition cedar occasionally to maintain its protective oils.

Maple is a light-colored hardwood with excellent resistance to wear. It’s dense, which makes it durable, but it can also develop fine surface scratches if not wrapped carefully. Use soft, breathable cloths to shield maple furniture.

Teak is favored for outdoor and indoor furniture due to its high oil content and weather resistance. While durable, teak can still dry out if exposed to extreme heat. Store it in a moderately cool environment and avoid placing it in direct sunlight.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I store furniture in a non-climate-controlled unit?
Short-term, it’s possible—but not ideal. For long-term storage, especially of wood and fabric, climate control is essential to prevent moisture damage and deterioration.

What’s the best way to keep fabric smelling fresh?
Thorough cleaning beforehand is crucial. You can also place small containers of baking soda or activated charcoal in the storage space to absorb odors.

Should I wrap furniture in plastic?
Avoid plastic for long-term storage. It traps moisture and creates a breeding ground for mold. Use breathable fabric covers instead.

Is disassembling furniture really necessary?
Yes, if possible. Disassembly reduces stress on joints during transport and allows you to pack more efficiently. It also helps avoid accidental damage.

How often should I check on stored furniture?
If you’re using a private or less secure space, check every few weeks. With professional warehouse or self storage facilities, monthly visits may be sufficient, especially if the space is climate-controlled and monitored.

Final Thoughts

Storing wooden and upholstered furniture properly takes a bit of effort, but the payoff is worth it. Whether you’re relying on self storage for its flexibility or warehouse storage for its full-service ease, taking the right steps to clean, protect, and store your furniture ensures it remains in great shape. With proper planning and the right storage environment, you can trust your cherished pieces will be ready for use again whenever you need them.

If you’re looking for a dependable solution, Roadway Moving offers both short- and long-term storage options for your wooden and upholstered furniture. Explore our storage options and find a nearby facility that fits your needs today.